Quay Group is seeking an experienced, hands-on Waterfront Estate Manager to take responsibility for the day-to-day operation, maintenance and management of a private waterfront estate in Antigua.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a practical, technically capable individual who enjoys a varied, hands-on role and is looking to establish a long-term career ashore in the Caribbean.
The position would be particularly well suited to an experienced Yacht Bosun, Mate, Engineer/Mate or technically minded marine professional who has managed teams, maintained complex systems and coordinated contractors, and is now looking to transition into private estate management.
The estate is owned by non-resident Principals and includes residential buildings, extensive grounds, a private dock and a center-console tender. The property is also undergoing expansion, creating an opportunity for the successful candidate to become involved in improvement and development projects.
This is very much a hands-on operational position rather than a purely administrative Estate Manager role.
The Role
The successful candidate will take ownership of the estate's daily operations, ensuring the property, grounds, infrastructure and marine assets are maintained to an excellent standard and remain ready for the Principals and their guests.
Responsibilities will include:
Estate Operations & Maintenance
- Oversee the day-to-day operation, upkeep and preventative maintenance of the estate.
- Manage and monitor essential property systems, including generators, water storage and filtration, pumps, solar and battery systems, air conditioning, electrical and plumbing infrastructure.
- Identify maintenance issues, troubleshoot where appropriate and coordinate specialist contractors for more complex repairs.
- Maintain exterior buildings, decking, shutters, roofs and finishes, with particular attention to the demands of a coastal environment.
- Establish and maintain effective preventative maintenance schedules, records and spare-parts inventories.
Marine Operations
- Oversee the operation, maintenance and readiness of the estate's center-console tender.
- Maintain the dock and associated marine equipment.
- Ensure the vessel is prepared and ready for use by the Principals and guests.
- Coordinate servicing, repairs and specialist marine contractors when required.
Staff & Contractor Management
- Lead and coordinate the existing estate team, including gardeners, housekeepers and additional support staff.
- Oversee daily schedules, standards and operational priorities.
- Manage local suppliers, tradespeople and maintenance contractors.
- Obtain quotations, monitor work quality and ensure projects are completed efficiently.
- Assist with the coordination of property expansion and improvement projects.
Principal & Guest Readiness
- Ensure the estate is fully prepared ahead of Principal and guest arrivals.
- Coordinate housekeeping, catering and additional hospitality support as required.
- Oversee property and tender handovers.
- Remain available to respond to operational requirements during guest stays.
Property Security & Seasonal Preparation
- Oversee routine property checks and general security readiness.
- Coordinate hurricane-season preparation, including securing buildings, equipment and marine assets.
- Remain on island during hurricane season, subject to safety considerations.
- Maintain accurate records of expenditure, maintenance, inventory and suppliers.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a resourceful, dependable and technically minded individual who takes genuine pride in maintaining a property and keeping everything running smoothly.
The successful candidate will ideally bring:
- A strong background in yachting, marine engineering, private estates or a comparable hands-on operational environment.
- Previous experience as a Bosun, Mate, Engineer/Mate, Sole Engineer or similar practical leadership position.
- Confidence managing staff, contractors and multiple operational priorities.
- Good working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and general maintenance systems.
- Practical problem-solving skills and a willingness to get involved personally when required.
- Experience operating and maintaining small motor vessels or tenders.
- Strong organizational skills, initiative and attention to detail.
- The ability to work independently, make sound decisions and communicate effectively with non-resident owners.
- A calm, adaptable approach and an appreciation for island living.
Candidates are not expected to personally repair every technical system. However, they must be comfortable understanding how systems operate, identifying issues and managing the appropriate specialists.
Experience overseeing construction, renovations or property improvement projects would be advantageous but is not essential.
Additional Information
This is a live-in position offering the opportunity to establish a long-term home and career in Antigua.
Applicants must be willing to commit to a minimum of two years and remain based on the island during hurricane season, with appropriate leave and time off incorporated into the schedule.
Employer sponsorship for the necessary Antigua work permit is available.
Applications from suitable couples may also be considered.
This opportunity would suit someone seeking a genuine lifestyle change, combining technical responsibility, marine operations and private estate management in a beautiful Caribbean setting.