Woody Plant Specialist Groundskeeper

International Society of Arboriculture; Dover (MA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits

Excellent health benefits

Job summary

The International Society of Arboriculture in Dover, MA seeks a seasoned Groundskeeper to lead the care of an estate’s diverse landscapes, including trees, shrubs, lawns, and trails. The role emphasizes hands-on plant health, safety, and day-to-day grounds management for an expansive arboretum environment.

Responsibilities include annual pruning, irrigation oversight, woodland management, on-call support, coordinating with contractors, and maintaining pristine walkways and open spaces to the

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of horticulture, forestry, irrigation and landscape practices.
• Experience with native trees and woodland management preferred.
• Ability to operate power equipment safely and effectively.

Responsibilities

• Perform annual pruning and plant health care for a diverse collection of trees and shrubs.
• Maintain lawns, fields, and pasture areas to high standards.
• Conduct forestry and tree work, including selective pruning, clearing, and woodland management.
• Monitor and manage watering requirements for new plantings.
• Maintain walking paths, trails, and outdoor recreational areas.
• Walk the property regularly to identify maintenance needs and safety concerns.
• Remove debris, leaves, and litter to keep grounds clean and attractive.
• Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal teams to support daily operations.
• Complete work orders and priorities set by estate leadership.
• Respond to after-hours or emergency property issues as needed.

Skills

Horticulture

Tree care

Grounds maintenance

Irrigation systems

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Experience on large private estates (preferred)

Tools

Chainsaws

Tractors

Mowers

Trimmers

Pruning equipment

Job description

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Location: Dover, MA
Salary: Competitive, and commensurate with experience.

Position Overview

A private estate is seeking an experienced, hands-on Groundskeeper with a strong background in woody plant care, horticulture, and landscape maintenance. This team member is responsible for the care and stewardship of the estate's grounds, including trees, shrubs, gardens, natural areas, trails, lawns, and fields. Specifically, this person will be the lead expert on woody plant health in this diverse and expansive arboretum.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of plant health, Northeast growing conditions, and best practices for maintaining both cultivated landscapes and natural woodland environments. This position requires a proactive individual who takes pride in creating and maintaining beautiful, safe, and well-cared-for outdoor spaces.

Occasional on-call availability, including weekends, is required to address urgent property-related needs.

This is an exciting opportunity to care for a beautifully appointed property with an exceptional arboretum. Additionally, we offer an excellent benefits package that includes retirement.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform annual pruning and plant health care for a diverse collection of trees and shrubs.
• Maintain lawns, fields, and pasture areas to high standards.
• Conduct forestry and tree work, including selective pruning, clearing, and general woodland management.
• Monitor and manage watering requirements for newly installed trees, shrubs, and landscape plantings.
• Maintain walking paths, trails, and other outdoor recreational areas.
• Walk the property regularly to identify maintenance needs, safety concerns, and opportunities for improvement.
• Remove debris, leaves, and litter to ensure grounds remain clean, safe, and visually appealing.
• Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal team members to support daily operations.
• Complete work orders and priorities assigned by estate leadership.
• Respond to after-hours or emergency property issues as needed.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of horticulture, forestry, tree care, irrigation systems, landscaping, and grounds maintenance practices.
• Extensive knowledge of native woody trees and shrubs, with the ability to care for both managed landscapes and natural woodland settings.
• Working knowledge of methods, materials, and equipment used in estate grounds maintenance.
• Experience with gardening, perennials, annuals, composting, and irrigation system repairs is preferred.
• Previous experience working on large private estates, equestrian properties, golf courses, parks, or similar environments is highly desirable.
• Ability to safely operate power equipment and machinery, including chainsaws, tractors, mowers, trimmers, and pruning equipment.
• Physically capable of lifting up to 80 pounds and performing demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to assist with additional property-related tasks as needed.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Positive, proactive, and service-oriented approach to work.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Demonstrated discretion and ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a self-motivated professional who genuinely enjoys working outdoors and takes pride in caring for exceptional landscapes. The ideal candidate combines technical horticultural expertise with a hands-on work ethic, sound judgment, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, appearance, and property care.