Are you looking for a job that’s more than just a job? Working at Menla means being part of a small, vibrant community, supporting a meaningful mission, and being immersed in a healthy and stunning natural environment. Menla is a hidden oasis in the Catskill Mountains, offering spiritual and wellness retreats alongside a world-class healing spa. Under the direction of the Facilities Manager, the Groundskeeper plays an essential role in caring for Menla’s land and outdoor spaces, helping to maintain a safe, serene, and welcoming environment for guests, staff, and the wider community through attentive and mindful stewardship of the property.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Mow and maintain all lawns on the Menla property to preserve a clean, welcoming, and serene environment
- Weed whack and maintain all areas of the property as needed, including lawns, pathways, and edges
- Assist the Facilities Department with road repairs and general upkeep of internal roadways and driveways
- Identify and safely remove trees (within reasonable size limits) that may pose a risk to buildings, infrastructure, or power lines
- Perform seasonal and winter duties including plowing and sanding roadways, and assisting with shoveling sidewalks and walkways
- Procure, split, and prepare firewood harvested from the property for use in fireplaces and outdoor fire pits
- Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and basic repairs on lawn mowers and groundskeeping equipment
Skills, Experience, and Qualifications
- Hard-working, reliable, and self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Demonstrated ability to professionally maintain green spaces and wooded areas in a rural or mountain setting
- Experience operating and maintaining grounds equipment such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and salt spreaders
- Knowledge of, or willingness to learn, the safe operation and maintenance of equipment including mini excavators and skid steers
- Light carpentry and basic plumbing knowledge is highly beneficial
- Knowledge of routine automotive maintenance (such as oil changes and brake replacement) is a plus
- Appreciation for working outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions common to the Catskill Mountains
Work Environment & Values
This role involves physical outdoor work in varied terrain and weather conditions throughout the year in the Catskill Mountains. The Groundskeeper must be a team player who works collaboratively with the Facilities and Maintenance teams, while also being an excellent communicator—able to share updates, identify concerns, and coordinate effectively to support daily operations. Menla values care for the land, environmental awareness, and mindful stewardship, and seeks individuals who respect the natural surroundings, contribute positively to a close-knit community, and support the mission of a retreat center.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, including firewood, equipment, and supplies
- Ability to perform prolonged physical activity, including walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and climbing uneven terrain
- Ability to operate and maneuver groundskeeping machinery safely, including lawn mowers, skid steers, and mini excavators
- Ability to perform repetitive motions such as pushing, pulling, and swinging tools (e.g., shovels, weed whackers, axes)
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind
- Visual and auditory ability to operate machinery and identify potential hazards on the property
Compensation: $20-22hr DOE, vacation and sick day package, employer matching 401K plan, free shift meals, very affordable on-site housing for the right candidate.
Perks: A sense of community, access to free yoga, meditation and other Menla-sponsored classes and retreats, access to spa and pool, and great discounts on massages and bookstore items. On site housing available to the right candidate.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Experience:
- Groundskeeping: 3 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
