Nature First Landscaping Senior Landscaper Wake Forest, NC · Full time Company website

Apply for Senior Landscaper

Welcome to Nature First Landscaping—a place where green thumbs, big ideas, and genuine smiles come together to create outdoor spaces our clients (and Mother Nature) love! Here’s a quick glimpse of what makes us a great spot to plant your career: • We Love the Outdoors: Fresh air, sunshine, and the scent of blooming flowers—if that sounds like your kind of “office,” you’re in the right place. • Passionate Team: Our crew is made up of enthusiastic landscapers, garden gurus, and plant whisperers who love sharing tips, swapping stories, and celebrating each other’s successes. • Growth Opportunities: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding gardener, we’ll help nurture your talents through hands-on training, mentorship, and plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. • Creativity Encouraged: Dream up new garden designs, experiment with sustainable practices, and let your imagination run free. We celebrate new ideas and love thinking outside the planter box! • Environmental Stewardship: We believe in caring for our planet as much as our clients’ properties. From eco-friendly tools to water-wise techniques, we’re committed to leaving the earth better than we found it. • Fun Vibes: Expect team outings, friendly competitions (think “Who can design the coolest succulent display?”), and lots of laughter on the job. We’re serious about our work, but we never forget to have fun!

Company Overview

Nature First Landscaping is an independently owned, locally operated full-service landscaping company committed to environmental stewardship and exceptional customer experiences. We transform outdoor spaces into vibrant, enduring landscapes by combining deep horticultural expertise with a passion for innovation and sustainability.

Position Summary

The Senior Landscaper will lead and oversee all landscape installation, maintenance, and renovation projects. This role requires a seasoned professional with at least 8 years of supervisory-level experience in the green industry, strong plant and hardscape knowledge, and the ability to mentor and manage a team to deliver top-tier service.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Leadership:
• Plan, schedule, and manage multiple landscaping projects from kickoff through completion.
• Coordinate crew assignments, routes, and daily workflows to optimize efficiency and resource use.
• Team Supervision & Development:
• Train, mentor, and evaluate landscape crews, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct toolbox talks, on-the-job coaching, and skills assessments.
• Quality Control & Client Relations:
• Perform regular site inspections to ensure work meets company standards and client expectations.
• Serve as the primary on-site client liaison for design clarifications, project updates, and issue resolution.
• Technical Expertise:
• Oversee installation of plant material, turf systems, irrigation, hardscape elements (pavers, retaining walls), and specialty features.
• Diagnose plant health issues, recommend corrective actions, and manage integrated pest management protocols.
• Safety & Compliance:
• Enforce OSHA and company safety policies; ensure proper use of PPE and equipment.
• Maintain records of pesticide applications, equipment maintenance, and team certifications.
• Budgeting & Reporting:
• Monitor project budgets, track labor and material costs, and report variances to management.
• Assist in estimating labor hours and material needs for proposals.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience:
• 8+ years in a supervisory or higher role within the landscaping industry (commercial and/or high-end residential).
• Education & Certifications:
• High school diploma or equivalent; degree in horticulture, landscape technology, or related field preferred.
• Valid pesticide applicator license and/or irrigation certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days).
• Technical Skills:
• Proficient with landscape installation techniques, plant identification, and maintenance best practices.
• Familiarity with landscape design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Vectorworks) and GPS-based route planning tools.
• Leadership & Communication:
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to build rapport with clients and crews.
• Demonstrated ability to train, motivate, and hold teams accountable.

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Expertise in sustainable landscaping practices (native plantings, rain gardens, organic fertilization).
• Experience managing crews of 5+ team members and subcontractors.
• Proven track record of reducing waste and driving cost-saving efficiencies.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for maintaining and troubleshooting equipment.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and adaptability to changing site conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. regularly and perform physical labor in all weather conditions.
• Comfortable operating trucks, mowers, loaders, and other heavy equipment.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
• Ability to drive truck and trailers.