FEATURED JOB OPENING: Caretaker(s) - Monte Vista, CO

This is a full-time position for a caretaker at a fishing club located near Monte Vista, CO.  We are a private, friendly community comprised of 30 member cabins. The primary focus of our members are short term getaways in the warmer months with most members participating in fishing, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors. At an elevation of 9800 feet, the property consists of 320 acres and is surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest.

It is important the caretaker possess skills typically used to maintain a ranch and off-grid home.  This person will operate and maintain a pickup truck, front end loader, hydraulic log-splitter, and other equipment. Duties include security, road maintenance, snow removal, tree and brush removal, coordination of propane service, trash removal, lake and stream inspection\maintenance, coordination of fish stocking, club equipment upkeep, water system maintenance and other duties as assigned by the Club Manager and\or Board of Directors.  Caretaker will also handle some chemicals, herbicides, and pesticides and be asked to perform basic plumbing and carpentry tasks.

The caretaker must be self-motivated, have independent reasoning and problem-solving skills and be able to work with limited daily supervision. Strong interpersonal skills are essential as frequent interaction with members, guests, and contractors occur.

As the caretaker will reside on the property year-round, the club provides a wide-ranging benefits package:  A caretaker residence, utilities, unlimited long-distance, internet service as well as a club truck are provided.  Additionally, a horse maintenance plan is included should the caretaker desire with a maximum of four horses allowed to be rotated in designated areas.  A base salary commensurate with experience from $30,000 to $40,000 a year is offered, plus a yearly discretionary bonus potential and a flexible vacation policy. 

Additionally, caretaker income can be supplemented at caretaker’s discretion by performing work during off hours at the request of members.  The caretaker will establish their own fee schedule and bill the member directly for their time and service.  Member requests must be made in advance to allow the caretaker to plan their schedule accordingly and not interfere with job and club responsibilities.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Club Manager to establish work priorities and club needs
• Safeguard club property and access
• Maintain and operate skid-steer loader with interchangeable bucket and snowplow blade
• Perform road upkeep and snow removal
• Keep club water system clean and functioning year round
• Perform lake & stream inspection and maintenance
• Apply chemical treatments for lakes and streams as needed
• Clear trees and brush on property and around cabins
• Coordinate lake and pond fish stocking
• Perform routine maintenance and repair of club equipment
• Haul trash and recycling to regional landfill
• Understand and apply Club rules and bylaws
• Accommodate variable schedule during peak season

Preferred Qualifications:

• Physically fit for high altitude work - able to lift up to 80lbs and navigate steep, mountainous terrain
• Able to live remotely, off-grid, with occasional isolation while facing wide weather extremes
• Self-motivated with capacity to independently problem-solve
• Experience maintaining lakes, streams, roads, and property grounds
• Capable of operating heavy equipment such as the club truck, skid-steer, and log-splitter
• Familiarity with the application, safety, and storage of chemicals
• Basic plumbing and carpentry skills
• Solid organizational, prioritization and time management skills
• Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with Club Manager, Board of Directors, members, and external contractors
• General office and computer experience