Primary Responsibilities
· Project Supervision: Direct and supervise landscape crews in daily tasks, allocate resources, and coordinate team activities.
· Site Preparation: Manage the preparation of sites for landscaping work, including grading, excavation, soil amendment, and installation of irrigation systems.
· Installation and Construction: Oversee the installation of hardscape features (patios, walkways, retaining walls), softscape elements (trees, shrubs, flowers), water features, lighting, and other landscape components.
· Maintenance: Ensure ongoing care such as mowing, pruning, fertilizing, and seasonal clean-up for commercial and residential properties.
· Quality Assurance: Inspect work throughout the project lifecycle, maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and adherence to client specifications.
· Safety Management: Promote a safe working environment, enforce safety protocols, conduct regular safety meetings, and ensure all equipment is used properly.
· Client Relations: Serve as the main point of contact for clients onsite, address questions or concerns, and communicate progress updates.
· Material Management: Order, track, and manage materials, tools, and equipment needed for each job.
· Reporting and Documentation: Keep detailed records of work performed, materials used, crew hours, and incident reports.
· Training and Mentoring: Train new crew members in proper techniques and safety procedures, fostering a culture of growth and teamwork.
Required Skills and Competencies
· Leadership: Ability to motivate, guide, and mentor crew members while maintaining discipline and productivity.
· Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication with clients, team members, and management.
· Problem-Solving: Quick thinking and resourceful in addressing challenges on site, including unforeseen issues with terrain, materials, or weather.
· Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of landscape design principles, plant care, irrigation systems, hardscape construction, and proper equipment operation.
· Time Management: Efficiently plan, schedule, and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and budgetary constraints.
· Attention to Detail: High standards for quality, aesthetics, and accuracy in implementation and maintenance.
· Physical Stamina: Capable of performing manual labor outdoors in various weather conditions, lifting heavy objects, and standing for extended periods.
· Safety Awareness: Familiarity with OSHA regulations and commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
Typical Work Environment
Landscape Foremen work outdoors in a variety of environments, including private residences, commercial properties, parks, and public spaces. Projects may span all seasons and require adaptation to changing weather and site conditions. Workdays are often physically demanding, involving the use of hand tools, power equipment, and heavy machinery.
Qualifications
· High school diploma or GED required; vocational training or certification in landscaping, horticulture, or construction is an asset.
· Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in landscaping or related field, with at least one year in a supervisory role.
· Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; ability to operate trucks, trailers, and landscape equipment.
· Knowledge of horticultural practices, soil science, irrigation systems, and hardscape installation.
· Bilingual abilities may be beneficial for communicating with diverse crews and clients.
· Ability to read and interpret blueprints, site plans, and specifications.
· Certification in pesticide application, equipment operation, or first aid is preferred.
Physical Requirements
· Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
· Capability to bend, kneel, and stand for extended periods.
· Comfortable working in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
· Manual dexterity to operate tools and equipment.
Career Path and Advancement
A Landscape Foreman may progress to roles such as Landscape Supervisor, Project Manager, or Estimator with experience and continued education. The position offers opportunities to specialize in design, irrigation, arboriculture, or construction, and can pave the way to owning a landscaping business.
Personal Qualities
· Reliability: Consistently dependable in attendance, punctuality, and completing assigned tasks.
· Integrity: Honest and ethical in interactions with clients, coworkers, and management.
· Initiative: Willingness to take on new challenges and identify opportunities for process improvement.
· Customer Service Orientation: Committed to delivering positive client experiences and ensuring satisfaction with completed work.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $23.41 - $28.19 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Safety equipment provided
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person