Estate Caretaker Couple (Live-In)

Role overview

A family-run waterfront estate in the southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia is hiring a live-in caretaker couple for year-round work. This is a salaried role designed for a mature pair looking for stable, long-term employment.

The property is used part-time by the owner and his two young children, mainly on long weekends and through the summer. The team is expected to help keep a 10-acre property in excellent condition. The site includes three homes, two docks, a workshop, outbuildings, and the potential for an organic vegetable garden.

Workload changes with the seasons. Spring, summer, and fall tend to be the busiest periods because of maintenance and gardening needs. Winter is generally quieter, leaving more free time for other pursuits.

Successful candidates will live in a 600 sq. ft. one-bedroom cottage located near the beach, separate from the main residence. Housing is provided with access to a vehicle, and a dock is available for a personal boat. The setting offers views of eagles, seals, and whales from the living room.

Handyman, grounds, and garden duties

• Carry out outdoor work comfortably, including climbing ladders and performing physically demanding tasks.
• Use carpentry and general handyman skills for routine repairs and upkeep.
• Maintain the grounds through mowing, edging, trimming, weeding, pruning, limb removal, planting flowers and vegetables, and general garden care.
• Operate mowers, pressure washers, and both power and hand tools safely and correctly.
• Handle everyday property maintenance such as generator care, plumbing issues, gutters, wood trim, fencing, and related tasks.
• Service trucks, mowers, and other equipment as needed.
• Assist with launching and maintaining boats, including a 30-foot rigid hull inflatable boat, if needed or of interest.

Housekeeping and household support

• Keep the homes on the property clean and well maintained.
• Clean kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living spaces, mudrooms, and porches.
• Perform regular dusting, mopping, vacuuming, window cleaning, and cleaning of grills and fireplaces.
• Wash, dry, fold, and manage towels, linens, and the owner’s clothing, with some ironing when required.
• Coordinate grocery needs with the owner and may occasionally help with shopping and food preparation or cooking.
• Drive the owner or guests locally and to or from airports when needed.

Additional notes and working conditions

Work hours will depend on the season. The role is busier during spring, summer, and autumn, while winter brings more downtime. The position is best suited to people who are comfortable with estate living, hands-on work, and a self-directed routine in a scenic waterfront location.

Candidate profile and conditions

• Applicants should have experience with housekeeping and groundskeeping on a ranch or estate.
• Both members of the couple must be legally authorized to work in Canada.
• The pair must be able to work independently, recognize issues quickly, and come up with practical solutions.
• Each person needs a valid driver’s license and must pass a criminal background check.
• Applicants should be physically fit and able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Pets are generally discouraged because of the deer and other wildlife on the property, though well-trained pets may be considered.
• Smoking is not permitted in the provided accommodation.

Opportunity summary

This is a chance to live and work on a beautiful waterfront estate in one of Canada’s most scenic locations. The owners are seeking reliable long-term caretakers who take pride in practical work and are comfortable making the islands their home.