Location: Running Springs, California
Position Type: Full-Time (On-Site)
Start Date: Immediate
Compensation: $18–$24 per hour
About the Role
Dovid Oved Retreat Center is seeking a dedicated, hands-on, and self-motivated Groundskeeper / Gardener & Animal Care Assistant to join our team.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, has a passion for gardening and sustainable growing practices, and is comfortable caring for animals. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing our vegetable and fruit gardens, enhancing the natural beauty of the property, and ensuring the daily well-being of our animals.
Key Responsibilities
- Cultivate, maintain, and expand vegetable and fruit gardens.
- Plan and implement seasonal planting schedules.
- Prepare soil, compost, fertilize, and manage weed control.
- Plant, maintain, and care for fruit trees, shade trees, and landscaping plants.
- Harvest produce and assist with maximizing garden productivity.
- Monitor plant health and implement pest and disease management practices.
- Operate and maintain gardening and landscaping equipment.
- Assist with general grounds maintenance, including pathways, outdoor spaces, and common areas.
- Ensure the retreat grounds remain clean, safe, and welcoming for guests.
- Provide daily care for retreat animals, including feeding, watering, and monitoring their health and well-being.
- Clean animal enclosures, shelters, and surrounding areas.
- Assist with basic animal husbandry tasks and report any health concerns promptly.
- Ensure animals are safely secured and cared for according to established procedures.
- Maintain feed supplies and animal care records as required.
Qualifications & Experience
- Previous experience in gardening, horticulture, farming, landscaping, or groundskeeping preferred.
- Experience caring for livestock, farm animals, or similar animals is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of irrigation systems and basic maintenance.
- Ability to work independently and take initiative.
- Physically fit and capable of performing outdoor manual labor in varying weather conditions.
- Comfortable using gardening tools and equipment.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Personal Attributes
- Reliable and trustworthy.
- Passionate about gardening, nature, and animal welfare.
- Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
- Enjoys working in a retreat, camp, or outdoor environment.
What We Offer
- Meaningful role contributing to a vibrant retreat environment.
- Varied and rewarding work with gardens, animals, and outdoor spaces.
- Supportive and community-focused working environment.
To Apply
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the position. Immediate availability is preferred.
Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour
Work Location: In person