Facilities & Grounds Maintenance Specialist in Guilford, Connecticut at Bishop's

Bishop’s Orchards Farm Market is seeking a full-time Facilities & Grounds Maintenance Specialist to support the safety, cleanliness, and overall functionality of farm properties, buildings, and grounds. This role is primarily focused on hands-on facilities and property maintenance, ensuring a welcoming and well-maintained environment for both guests and staff.

The ideal candidate is dependable, practical, and takes pride in maintaining both indoor and outdoor spaces in a fast-paced agricultural setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain the condition, cleanliness, and operational readiness of buildings, grounds, and public spaces
• Perform general building maintenance including basic plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, and repairs
• Maintain outdoor areas such as sidewalks, parking lots, patios, and landscaped spaces
• Support daily upkeep of high-traffic areas during peak seasons to ensure safety and presentation standards
• Assist with event setup, breakdown, and general property readiness
• Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on facilities and equipment
• Coordinate with outside contractors and vendors when specialized services are required
• Assist with snow removal, seasonal transitions, and off-season improvement projects
• Help maintain tools, equipment, and maintenance storage areas in an organized manner
• May assist the mechanic with minor equipment issues or basic troubleshooting as needed

A Day in the Life: Peak Season (September–October)

No two days look the same. Mornings may begin with preparing guest areas and ensuring grounds are clean and safe before opening. Mid-day could include repairing fixtures, maintaining high-traffic areas, supporting Pick-Your-Own operations, or assisting with event setup. Afternoons often involve ongoing upkeep, restocking maintenance supplies, and responding to facility needs as they arise. The pace is fast, priorities shift, and your work directly impacts the guest experience.

Winter & Off-Season Focus

When the crowds slow, the focus shifts to:

• Building repairs, painting, and general improvements
• Deep cleaning and facility upgrades
• Grounds work, drainage improvements, and property upkeep
• Seasonal setup and breakdown of outdoor areas
• Preparing buildings and spaces for the next season

Schedule & Position Details

• Tuesday–Saturday, with flexibility for weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed
• Overtime may be required during harvest and fall festival season
• Rotating schedule based on seasonal business demands
• Competitive hourly pay based on experience

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Qualifications

• Experience in facilities maintenance, property upkeep, or general trades
• Basic knowledge of plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and grounds maintenance
• Strong troubleshooting skills and hands-on problem solving
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to work independently
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, seasonal environment
• Valid, clean driver’s license
• Must be 18 years of age or older

Physical & Work Environment

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods; frequent bending, reaching, pushing, and pulling
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs.; team lift for heavier items
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying temperatures and weather conditions
• Comfortable working around food production, retail, and farm environments
• Ability to use tools and equipment safely