Who We Are & About This Role

Since 1946, Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill has been a cornerstone of Michigan agriculture and agritourism — an 80-year family operation with deep roots in Armada and a genuine growth ambition. We make world-class hard and sweet cider, operate tasting rooms and retail across four locations, and welcome thousands of guests to our farms each year.

We are seeking an experienced Grounds Manager to oversee the maintenance, appearance, and operational readiness of multiple high-traffic agricultural, retail, and event properties across our Michigan locations.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for managing grounds operations, supervising crews, and ensuring all properties remain safe, clean, and fully prepared for daily guest activity and seasonal events.

The ideal candidate is a proven leader in grounds, landscaping, agricultural, or facilities operations who takes pride in high standards, efficiency, and team accountability.

If you enjoy working outdoors, leading teams, creating beautiful spaces, and taking pride in maintaining high operational standards — we’d love to hear from you.

Your Role With Blake’s

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee groundskeeping and beautification efforts across all Blake’s properties
• Ensure all customer-facing areas — including lawns, orchards, pathways, fields, and event spaces — are maintained to a high standard at all times
• Schedule, manage, and optimize labor crews to maximize efficiency and productivity
•  Implement proactive maintenance plans for landscaping, lawn care, seasonal cleanup, and event readiness
• Conduct daily property walkthroughs and ensure operational logs and checklists are completed
• Support broader farm operations during peak seasons and special events
• Operate and oversee the safe use of farm equipment and agricultural machinery
• Track labor, material, and operational costs while identifying opportunities for improvement
• Maintain organization and cleanliness standards throughout all work areas

Safety & Security Leadership 

You Will:

• Serve as a safety and security champion across Blake’s family of companies
• Support company-wide safety initiatives, trainings, inspections, and emergency preparedness procedures
• Promote best practices related to equipment operation, property access, and overall site safety
• Monitor and respond to safety or security concerns across all farm-related properties
• Help ensure compliance with OSHA guidelines and company safety policies
• Lead by example in creating a safe, positive, and accountable work environment

What Great Looks Like

Qualifications

Required:

• 3–5+ years of experience in grounds management, landscaping supervision, farm operations, or facilities maintenance leadership 
• Proven experience managing and scheduling labor crews 
• Working knowledge of grounds maintenance, landscaping, and equipment operation 
• Experience operating or overseeing agricultural or landscaping machinery 
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills 
• Valid driver’s license 
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions 
• Flexible schedule, including weekends during peak seasons

Preferred:

• CDL license
• Pesticide application license
• Experience with workplace safety programs and OSHA compliance
• Working Conditions
• Primarily outdoor work in varying weather conditions
• Physically active role requiring standing, walking, lifting, and equipment operation
• Weekend work required during summer and fall peak seasons
• Flexible scheduling needed to support events and farm operations

Why Blake’s?

•  Join one of Michigan’s most established and growing family-owned agricultural and hospitality companies 
• Lead multi-site grounds operations with real responsibility and impact 
• Work in a dynamic environment with seasonal variety and visible results 
• Employee perks, product discounts, and seasonal experiences