Live In Staff Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

A wonderful private family is seeking a full-time, live-in, experienced, hands-on Ranch & Property Manager to oversee the daily operations and maintenance of their beautiful 40-acre, fully staffed private estate in Hidden Valley/Thousand Oaks, CA. This is a long-term opportunity for someone who takes pride in creating and maintaining an exceptional property while leading a dedicated team with professionalism and positivity.

The ideal candidate is bilingual in English and Spanish, highly organized, proactive, detail-oriented, and enjoys solving problems. This person will become a trusted right-hand partner who ensures every aspect of the property is well cared for and operating smoothly. Ultimately, the principals would prefer to step back and have the candidate take ownership of the day-to-day.

The general schedule will be Monday through Friday from 7am to 3:30pm with flexibility for emergencies or special events. 

This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced estate or ranch manager seeking a long-term position with a wonderful family who values professionalism, initiative, and pride in maintaining an exceptional property.

Local candidates preferred.

Include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and appearance of a 40-acre private ranch and estate.
• Supervise and coordinate a team of approximately six employees, including gardeners, maintenance staff, and stable personnel.
• Coordinate and manage outside contractors, including electricians, plumbers, landscapers, pool professionals, and other service providers.
• Ensure the grounds, gardens, trees, and landscaping are healthy, attractive, and consistently maintained.
• Manage ongoing planting, replanting, irrigation, and seasonal landscape improvements.
• Oversee horse stables and coordinate with the groom responsible for daily horse care.
• Help oversee the care of other animals, including dogs, goats, and eventually chickens
• Monitor all estate systems, including lighting, irrigation, pool, guest house, cottages, and other facilities, ensuring everything remains in excellent working order.
• Conduct regular property inspections to identify maintenance needs before they become problems.
• Maintain inventory of supplies, equipment, and tools while ensuring everything is organized and returned to its proper place.
• Coordinate property preparation for guests, entertaining, and occasional film shoots.
• Keep accurate maintenance records, schedules, and vendor information.
• Respond appropriately to urgent maintenance issues and help coordinate emergency repairs when needed.

• Takes ownership and treats the property as if it were their own.
• Has a positive attitude and enjoys working with people.
• Is resourceful and focused on finding solutions. 
• Notices the small details that others miss.
• Stays ahead of maintenance needs instead of reacting to problems.
• Is dependable, responsive, and follows through on commitments.
• Leads by example and earns the respect of the team.
• Is comfortable working in a dynamic environment where every day is a little different

• Minimum 5+ years of experience of hands-on management of a large private estate, ranch, luxury residential property, or similar operation.
• Fluent in both English and Spanish (required).
• Strong leadership and team management experience.
• Knowledge of landscaping, irrigation, property maintenance, and general construction.
• Experience coordinating multiple vendors and subcontractors.
• Familiarity with horse properties or ranch operations is highly preferred.
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Flexibility with schedule changes when needed. Must be available for emergencies
• Not a clock-watcher
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and maintain high standards without constant supervision.
• Must be committed long-term. The family values their employees and expect the same in return
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Legal to work in the U.S.

The family is offering a salary of $100k to $120k DOE, an on-site 2-bedroom cottage, PTO, and a negotiable health stipend.