HEAD GROUNDSKEEPER / PROPERTY MANAGER
Full-Time – Syosset, NY
A private family estate in Syosset, New York is seeking an experienced, hands-on Head Groundskeeper/Property Manager to oversee and maintain a beautifully landscaped 17.5-acre property, including ponds, gardens, pool area, lawns, and seasonal floral displays. This role combines leadership, vendor coordination, and expert grounds maintenance. The ideal candidate is proactive, knowledgeable, reliable, and able to ensure that all outdoor areas are maintained to the highest standards without needing reminders.
Responsibilities
Grounds & Estate Maintenance
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Oversee daily inspection and policing of all estate grounds, ensuring exceptional curb appeal at all times.
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Perform and supervise tasks including trash removal, cleaning walkways, maintaining common outdoor areas, and general property upkeep.
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Manage routine power washing schedules for buildings, walkways, and outdoor amenities.
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Handle light landscaping duties such as planting, watering, weeding, pruning, mulching, and seasonal garden/flower rotations.
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Maintain lawn health—including mowing oversight, edging, reseeding, and monitoring grass quality (a major focus).
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Oversee the care of ponds, pool area, outdoor structures, and hardscape features.
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Change and maintain exterior lighting while adhering to safety protocols.
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Manage snow removal and apply ice melt (as needed in winter).
Leadership & Oversight
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Supervise a team of two grounds staff, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and quality work across all outdoor areas.
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Provide guidance, training, and delegation as needed while also performing hands-on tasks.
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Ensure all work is completed timely, thoroughly, and without requiring follow-up from the property owners.
Vendor & Project Management
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Coordinate with third-party vendors (landscapers, pool maintenance, arborists, irrigation companies, etc.).
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Oversee improvement projects, repairs, and seasonal work schedules.
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Conduct regular property inspections and promptly report any issues requiring repair, replacement, or additional attention.
General & Administrative Duties
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Attend periodic staff meetings with household management.
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Maintain a professional, courteous demeanor with owners, staff, and visitors.
Requirements
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High school diploma or equivalent.
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Minimum 5+ years of experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, estate management, or similar role.
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Strong working knowledge of lawn care, garden upkeep, irrigation, and outdoor property systems.
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Ability to work independently and lead a small team.
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Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize.
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Physical capability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and perform strenuous outdoor work.
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Comfortable working in all weather conditions.
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Ability to safely use ladders and landscaping equipment.
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Willingness to work occasional weekends or holidays as needed.
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Discreet, dependable, proactive, and able to anticipate needs without instruction.
Compensation
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Competitive salary starting at $75,000+ and open to higher compensation for the right experienced candidate.
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Full benefits package including:
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Medical, dental, and vision insurance
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Life insurance
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Short- and long-term disability
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401(k)
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Flexible Spending Account
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Health Reimbursement Account
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About the Estate
The property belongs to a private elderly couple (80+), and the grounds team works alongside a respectful household staff of 5–6 (including housekeepers and other support). The Head Groundskeeper/Property Manager is expected to ensure the estate remains pristine, well-managed, and beautiful year-round.