Landscape Lead Hand

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a seasoned landscape professional ready to take the next step in your career? We are searching for a dynamic and hands-on Landscape Lead Hand to guide a dedicated crew in creating and maintaining stunning outdoor environments. As a critical link between our crew and project managers, you will be responsible for bringing landscape designs to life, ensuring exceptional quality, and fostering a safe and productive work site. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled individual who excels at both hands-on work and team leadership, and who is looking to grow with a company that values craftsmanship and employee development.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Experienced Landscape Technician
Senior Gardener / Horticulturist
Hardscape Installer

Advancement To:

Landscape Foreman
Landscape Construction Project Manager
Operations Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Irrigation Specialist
Arborist Team Lead
Hardscape Foreman

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of a landscape crew (typically 2-5 members) to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and to company standards.
Interpret landscape design plans, blueprints, and work orders to execute construction and maintenance projects accurately.
Lead by example by performing hands-on landscape construction and maintenance tasks, including planting, grading, sodding, and pruning.
Direct the installation of hardscape features such as interlocking pavers, patios, walkways, retaining walls, and natural stone elements.
Operate a wide range of light and heavy-duty landscaping equipment, including skid steers, mini-excavators, compactors, and power tools, in a safe and proficient manner.
Ensure all work is performed with a high level of quality, precision, and craftsmanship, meeting or exceeding client expectations.
Train, mentor, and motivate crew members on proper landscaping techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols.
Act as the primary on-site point of contact for clients, providing professional updates, answering questions, and resolving any minor concerns with exceptional customer service.
Manage on-site logistics, including the timely arrival of materials, proper allocation of tools, and efficient workflow planning.
Conduct daily site assessments and "toolbox talks" to identify potential hazards and reinforce a culture of safety.
Complete and submit daily paperwork accurately, including crew timesheets, work progress reports, material usage logs, and change orders.
Troubleshoot and proactively resolve on-site challenges, such as unexpected ground conditions, material shortages, or equipment issues.

Secondary Functions

Uphold and enforce all company policies, procedures, and safety standards, including OH&S regulations, on the job site at all times.
Perform daily inspections and routine preventative maintenance on all tools, machinery, and company vehicles to ensure they remain in safe, working order.
Assist in loading and unloading trucks and trailers with materials, tools, and equipment.
Drive a company truck, often with a trailer attached, safely and legally to and from job sites and supplier locations.
Monitor and manage the inventory of on-site materials and supplies, communicating needs to the Project Manager to avoid project delays.
Provide constructive performance feedback to crew members to support their professional growth and skill development.
Assist in snow and ice management operations during the winter season, which may include plowing, salting, and shoveling (if applicable).
Collaborate closely with the Foreman and/or Project Manager to provide updates on project timelines, budget adherence, and crew performance.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Expert Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating skid steers, mini-excavators, loaders, and other common landscaping machinery.
Hardscape Installation: Demonstrable experience in the construction of retaining walls, interlock patios, and other stone features.
Horticultural Knowledge: Strong understanding of plant identification, soil types, turf management, and proper planting/pruning techniques.
Blueprint & Plan Reading: Ability to read and accurately interpret landscape architectural plans and specifications.
Valid Driver's License: A valid G-class (or equivalent) driver's license with a clean driving abstract is mandatory. Experience towing trailers is a significant asset.
Irrigation & Lighting: Basic knowledge of installing and repairing low-voltage landscape lighting and irrigation systems.
Small Engine Maintenance: Ability to perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance on small engines and power tools.

Soft Skills

Leadership & Mentorship: Proven ability to lead, delegate, and motivate a team to achieve common goals.
Communication: Excellent verbal communication skills for interacting effectively with clients, crew members, and management.
Problem-Solving: Strong critical-thinking and on-the-spot problem-solving skills to navigate unforeseen site challenges.
Time Management: Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities to keep projects on schedule.
Attention to Detail: A meticulous eye for detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality, finished work.
Work Ethic: A reliable, self-motivated individual with a positive attitude and a strong sense of pride in their work.
Safety Focus: A deeply ingrained, safety-first mindset for oneself and the entire crew.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Post-secondary diploma or certificate in Horticulture, Landscape Technology, Landscape Design, or a related skilled trade.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Horticulture
Landscape Construction
Arboriculture

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-5 years of progressive, hands-on experience in the professional landscape construction/maintenance industry.

Preferred: Minimum of 1-2 years of demonstrated experience in a leadership role (e.g., Crew Lead, Assistant Foreman) within a landscaping environment.