Caretaker, Building Maintenance, Maintenance Technician ​/ Mechanic

The Merwin Conservancy in Haik seeks a part-time Caretaker to conduct day-to-day property maintenance activities on grounds in order to ensure readiness for programmatic use of property, safety of people, and integrity of structures and systems. Reporting to the Head of Horticulture, Garden, and Grounds, this hourly position requires 18 hours per week on a regular schedule with some flexibility, and occasional evening, weekend, and 'on-call' work as required to respond to emergent issues or programmatic needs.

The Caretaker will be attuned and sensitive to the unique aesthetic and philosophical considerations guiding the Conservancy’s stewardship of this place, and the legacy of which it is an integral part.

Conduct and/or manage operational and aesthetic maintenance of structures and systems on the property to ensure their longevity and integrity, and to ensure the safety of staff, contractors, volunteers, program participants.

Help identify and serve as primary point of contact on vendors and contractors working on site: cleaners, deliveries, and other contractors

Execute a maintenance plan, detailing the nature and frequency of maintenance activities to ensure all systems and structures remain in good working order.

Maintain records to track improvements, key repairs, and maintenance of the following sites:

Main house, garden dojo, carport, auxiliary building, driveways and pathways,etc
Water catchment, photovoltaic system, property fencing, irrigation, etc.

Maintain and organize supplies and tools, track on related needs

Provide continuous assessment of property, making suggestions or updates to care plan as necessary

Adhere and contribute to safety policies to create a safe working and program environment for everyone and to ensure the security of the site

Alert Supervisor and/or other on-site staff of any emergent safety issues

Manage the continual upkeep of a safety plan and protocol to support our residency program in the main house. Ensure property is outfitted appropriately with related supplies, etc.

During regularly scheduled hours, be present during garden tours, garden visits, volunteer days, and other scheduled activities, and in communication with Open Garden Days leader by radio

Work closely and collaboratively with Merwin Conservancy program and administrative staff, garden contractors and staff, and on-site volunteers to support the successful implementation programs and other on site activities

Maintain clear and consistent communication with Head of Horticulture, Garden & Grounds and other colleagues

Meet regularly with supervisor, and attend weekly all-staff meetings to coordinate operational and programmatic efforts seamlessly

Other duties as assigned

Property management experience, an ability to sense and respond to the rhythms of this place as they relate to property care and maintenance

Organized with a high degree of attention to detail and ability to track and advance multiple projects at once

Demonstrated ability to follow direction with skills in collaboration and communication

Facility with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and Google Platform (Gmail, Google Drive)

Ability to perform general maintenance tasks including, but not limited to, cleaning and repairs

Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Commitment to following best practice and policies regarding safety, including undergoing and maintaining current first aid training

Self-directed, solution-oriented, takes initiative

Possess valid driver license, and ability to run errands and commute between work sites

Certified in basic First Aid, or ability to become certified

This position is 18-hours per week with a set schedule that will require flexibility depending on programmatic needs. The position is eligible for paid time off. Employee will become eligible to receive matching contributions (up to 3% of salary) to an IRA after one year. Please note that this position does not include lodging. Salary range is noted and is dependent upon experience.

Background Check Policy:
As a condition of employment with The Merwin Conservancy each qualified candidate who has been given a conditional offer of employment must participate in a background check.