Job Description

A downtown Toronto Estate, with a large property, is seeking a full-time Head Gardener/Property Manager. This is a full-time year-round position with Management responsibilities. Gardening experience is essential.

This is an opportunity to work in a passionately maintained garden that is a haven to anyone who loves gardens. The garden is meticulous and kept to the highest standards. The successful candidate for this position will also have the overview of all maintenance for the exterior of the residence.

The candidate will manage extensive perennial beds and vegetable gardens. In addition, they will be responsible for monitoring, weeding and helping to maintain a large ravine restoration adjacent to the property. The successful candidate will work closely with the principal who is a passionate and knowledgeable gardener. The candidate will also be supported by a number of professionals including a horticulturalist, a plantsman, two arborists, and a pool maintenance team. The horticulturalist works two half days per week and the plantsman is one day per week. With the Head Gardener and this additional staff the garden beds and ravine restoration are maintained.

The successful candidate will manage all inventories relevant to the garden, keep to a set monthly schedule and manage all expenditures relating to maintaining the garden. They will also have the lead in maintaining a garden manual and a horticultural manual that have been built to manage the garden. In addition, they will be responsible for photographing the garden on a biweekly basis and recording photographs.

The Head Gardener/Property Manager will also ensure that the grounds, including patios, decks, and pool, are always kept well-tended. The candidate will also manage all exterior maintenance issues.

As Property Manager this individual will also oversee numerous trades and services especially during the spring opening of the property and the fall closing. In this role the candidate will also be comfortable with small repairs and basic handyman tasks.

A minimum or 5 years working in perennial gardens will be an essential background. An in-depth knowledge of plant materials, plant and tree diseases, pest control, pruning strategies, soil conditions, and watering needs will also be required to succeed in this role.

The applicant should have a strong work ethic, good English communication skills, and the ability to anticipate needs and manage time effectively.

Additionally, the applicant must always have a professional personal presentation and maintain the privacy and security of the property.

The applicant must possess a valid, clean Ontario driver's licence (class G) and must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

Preference will be given to candidates that have worked previously in a private residence.

Work hours are from 8:30-4:30 or as required, daily during the summer months. Some flexibility for weekends depending on weather conditions is expected. Winter hours are reduced and more flexible with the ability to work from home under some conditions.

Excellent compensation is provided for the right candidate. A medical/dental allowance is included as are three weeks holiday. Holidays are expected to be taken during the off season.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $70,000.00-$90,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person