Grounds Keeper

**About us**

Private family residence, based in Toronto, Ontario.

**Position Summary**

The Groundskeeper / Horticulturalist reports to the Property Manager. The Groundskeeper is responsible to develop and maintain the grounds of an extensive private residence in Toronto. Responsible for designing and planting annuals/flowers at the start of the growing season; maintenance of the garden and lawn year-round, snow removal, and other outdoor maintenance and cleaning associated with maintenance of the property. The role also requires the ability to oversee the work of contractors and occasional labour brought in to support requirements occasionally at peak planting period in the Spring. This role will also assist the Property Manager with monitoring and maintaining the residence mechanical systems and supplies.

**Key Accountabilities**
- Directly responsible for the first impression of all outdoor areas of the property. Maintain the lawn to a first-class standard taking proactive actions to combat weeds, lawn dehydration and overgrowth, etc.
- Care and maintenance of all trees, plants and shrubs including (without limitation) planting, pruning, fertilizing, and watering.
- Early identification and treatment/mitigation of diseases/infestations within the grounds, including trees, shrubs, plants and lawns.
- Supervision of outside contractors to ensure that works are executed to the homeowner’s standard, whilst ensuring the maintenance of privacy and security whenever contractors are present.
- Liaison with contractors, suppliers and other third parties to secure the provision of the highest quality services and supplies whilst maintaining the strongest focus on cost control.
- Maintain all walkways, driveways and patios and keep clear of snow and ice as required.
- Remove any weeds, leaves and other debris and make arrangements for disposal/removal from the property.
- Ensure patio/outdoor furniture remains in a clean and serviceable state when in use.
- Support the maintenance of garden/landscaping equipment including (without limitation): snowblowers, lawn mowers, pressure washers, leaf blowers, hoses.
- Ensure the safe storage and sufficient supply of all related supplies including (without limitation): Ice melt, fertilizer, gasoline, chemicals, etc.
- Assist the Property Manager with other maintenance tasks as required, including:

- Monitoring and maintaining residential mechanical systems
- Small repairs, as required
- Assist with maintenance supervision and small repairs at other family properties from time to time.

**Working Conditions**
- Household/family environment.
- Family dogs.
- Occasional heavy lifting/operation of equipment, e.g. for lawncare and snow removal.
- Outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions throughout all seasons.
- There may be the occasional requirement to travel to other properties in Ontario (Collingwood and Muskoka) to advise on planting/conditions as necessary.

**Requirements**:

- Minimum of 5+ years of experience in a similar role.
- Thorough knowledge of plant, lawn care, care and maintenance of grounds of a similar scale and complexity.
- Self-starter, with the ability to operate both as part of a small team and independently
- Demonstrate attention to detail with time management and strong prioritization skills.
- Knowledge of the English language (written and verbal).
- Formal horticultural qualifications (considered an asset)
- A valid Canadian driver's license.
- Criminal background and reference checks will be conducted as part of the recruitment process.

**Salary**: $60,000.00-$65,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care

Schedule:

- 10 hour shift
- Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Toronto, ON M9L 2R7: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

**Experience**:

- grounds/lawn care and maintenance of similar scale: 5 years (required)

**Language**:

- Thorough knowledge in English (written & verbal) (required)

Licence/Certification:

- Canadian Driver's license (required)

Work Location: In person