- Live-In Grounds & Animal Care Assistant – Surrey Estate with 5-Star Dog Retreat
A unique opportunity has arisen for a capable, compassionate, and practically minded individual to join a small team on a beautiful 10-acre private estate in Surrey. The estate includes a luxury 5-star dog boarding facility in a converted barn, with two self-contained staff flats above. The owner — a retired Veterinary Surgeon — is stepping back from daily operations due to health reasons and is now seeking a third team member to live on-site and take on a key supporting role.
About the Role:
This is a live-in, hands-on position combining gardening and grounds maintenance with the daily care and wellbeing of dogs boarding at the Retreat. You will work alongside one other full-time staff member to ensure both the estate and dog care facilities are well-maintained and running smoothly.
Key Responsibilities:
Grounds & Estate Maintenance:
- Regular upkeep of lawns, trees, hedging, borders, and pathways across the 10-acre property
- Operating machinery: tractors, ride-on and push mowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, etc.
- Pressure washing terraces and kennels, splitting/moving logs, basic maintenance tasks
- Seasonal jobs including clearing leaves, basic repairs, and general estate duties
Dog Care:
- Daily care and supervision of dogs boarding at the Retreat
- Twice-daily walks across the estate. Also in the evenings to let dogs out and settled for the night.
- Feeding, cleaning, and general welfare of all animals on-site
- Observing and reporting any signs of distress or illness
Requirements:
- Experience in grounds or estate maintenance, with confident use of outdoor equipment
- A strong, hands-on work ethic and physical fitness for manual tasks
- A caring, calm, and responsible approach to animals, particularly dogs
- Ability to drive a tractor and other machinery (training can be provided)
- Willingness to work flexible hours including some weekends and evenings
- Able to work independently and as part of a small, dedicated team
- Trustworthy, reliable, and respectful of a private home setting
What’s Offered:
- Live-in accommodation: Private flat above the dog retreat (suitable for one person)
- Salary: Dependent on experience, hours, and flexibility
- Working hours: To be discussed; flexibility is key, particularly around weekends/evenings
- A long-term opportunity in a peaceful, rural setting with a close-knit and friendly team
To Apply:
Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your experience in animal care and grounds maintenance, and your availability.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: Up to £30,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Chertsey KT16 0DR: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Gardening: 5 years (required)
- dog handling: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person
