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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Landscaping Supervisor

💰 $55,000 - $75,000 per year

FacilitiesSkilled TradesManagementHorticulture

🎯 Role Definition

The Landscaping Supervisor is the operational backbone of our field teams and the primary steward of our clients' properties. This role is not just about managing tasks; it's about cultivating talent, ensuring unparalleled quality, and driving the on-the-ground execution of our company's vision. As a field leader, the Supervisor bridges the gap between strategic planning and daily operations, directly overseeing crews to deliver exceptional horticultural and maintenance services. You are the lynchpin for safety, efficiency, and client satisfaction, responsible for transforming landscape designs into beautiful, thriving, and well-maintained environments.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Lead Landscaper / Crew Leader
  • Senior Landscape Technician
  • Horticulturist or Arborist Technician

Advancement To:

  • Landscape Operations Manager
  • Branch Manager
  • Project Manager (Landscape Construction)

Lateral Moves:

  • Landscape Account Manager
  • Irrigation Manager
  • Safety and Training Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Direct, organize, and oversee the daily activities of a landscaping crew of 2-5 members, ensuring all tasks are completed efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards.
  • Provide hands-on training and mentorship to crew members on proper horticultural techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols to foster skill development and career growth.
  • Conduct pre-job site inspections and develop daily work plans to effectively allocate labor, equipment, and materials for maintenance contracts and enhancement projects.
  • Serve as the primary on-site point of contact for clients, proactively communicating progress, addressing concerns, and identifying opportunities for landscape enhancements to build strong, lasting relationships.
  • Enforce all company safety policies and procedures rigorously, conducting daily toolbox talks and regular site safety inspections to maintain a zero-incident work environment.
  • Manage and track crew hours and work performed, ensuring accurate and timely submission of digital timesheets and daily work reports.
  • Read and interpret landscape plans, blueprints, and specifications to ensure accurate installation and execution of landscape enhancement and construction projects.
  • Perform comprehensive property and quality control inspections to ensure all work meets or exceeds company standards and client expectations, and implement corrective actions as needed.
  • Manage the on-site inventory of materials, tools, and supplies, coordinating with the Operations Manager to order and procure necessary items to prevent project delays.
  • Oversee the proper care, maintenance, and security of all company vehicles, trailers, and equipment assigned to the crew, scheduling repairs as necessary.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot common plant health issues, including pests and diseases, and implement appropriate integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
  • Skillfully operate a wide range of commercial landscaping equipment, including zero-turn mowers, string trimmers, edgers, blowers, and occasionally heavier equipment like skid steers.
  • Ensure all assigned routes and properties are maintained according to the specifications and frequency outlined in the service contracts.
  • Document and report any site issues, property damage, or accidents immediately and thoroughly to senior management.
  • Motivate and lead the crew by example, maintaining a positive and professional attitude while fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and pride in workmanship.
  • Assist in coordinating and executing seasonal services, such as spring/fall cleanups, mulching, and aeration.
  • Manage irrigation systems on-site, performing basic inspections, adjustments, and reporting any complex issues to the irrigation division.
  • Communicate effectively with subcontractors and vendors on-site to ensure seamless coordination and project flow.
  • Participate in performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to crew members to support their professional development.
  • Respond to off-hour and emergency site needs as required, particularly during storm events or for urgent client requests.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist the branch or operations manager with the recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding process for new field staff.
  • Participate in and lead snow and ice removal operations during the winter months, including managing a snow route and crew.
  • Identify and report potential sales opportunities for landscape enhancements or additional services observed while on client properties.
  • Represent the company professionally at local trade shows, community events, or client meetings as requested.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Extensive knowledge of regional horticultural practices, including plant identification (trees, shrubs, perennials), proper pruning techniques, and soil health management.
  • Proficiency in operating and performing routine maintenance on a full range of commercial-grade landscaping and snow removal equipment.
  • Ability to read, understand, and execute tasks based on landscape design plans, blueprints, and site maps.
  • Strong understanding of irrigation systems, including the ability to perform basic diagnostics, adjustments, and minor repairs.
  • Experience with the safe and effective application of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, often requiring a state-issued applicator's license.
  • Solid technical knowledge of landscape construction and installation techniques for hardscapes (patios, walkways) and softscapes (planting beds, turf).
  • Competency with business technology, including smartphones, tablets, and industry-specific software for time tracking and daily reporting.
  • Advanced troubleshooting skills for diagnosing and resolving common landscape issues, from equipment malfunctions to plant diseases.
  • In-depth knowledge of OSHA safety standards and regulations applicable to the landscaping industry.
  • Financial acumen for managing project hours and materials within a given budget.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional leadership and team motivation abilities with a talent for mentoring and developing crew members.
  • Strong, clear communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with clients, crew members, and management.
  • Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to address on-site challenges quickly and decisively.
  • Superior time management and organizational skills to manage multiple properties and tasks simultaneously.
  • A meticulous attention to detail and a high standard for quality, ensuring work is consistently excellent.
  • Customer-centric mindset with a professional and courteous demeanor.
  • Adaptability and composure to handle changing priorities, weather conditions, and unexpected situations.
  • Strong sense of personal accountability and a proactive, "can-do" work ethic.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Horticulture
  • Landscape Management / Contracting
  • Agronomy
  • Environmental Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-5 years of progressive, hands-on experience in the professional landscaping or grounds maintenance industry.

Preferred: A minimum of 2 years of experience in a leadership role, such as a Crew Leader or Foreman, with demonstrated responsibility for managing staff and properties.

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