Landscape Agronomy Operations Manager

About the Role

The Landscape Agronomy Manager develops and manages agronomic programs to promote the health, quality, and sustainability of turfgrass, trees, shrubs, and ornamental plant material in commercial and residential landscapes. This role provides technical expertise to operations teams, monitors plant and turf performance, and ensures best management practices are implemented.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee fertility, soil health, and plant nutrition programs for turfgrass and ornamental landscapes.
• Design and manage Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs for weeds, insects, and plant diseases.
• Create seasonal agronomic recommendations based on environmental conditions, soil testing, and plant performance.
• Evaluate new fertilizers, pesticides, biological products, and cultural practices through field trials.
• Conduct routine site inspections to assess turf quality, plant health, irrigation performance, and overall landscape conditions.
• Diagnose turf and ornamental plant issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Monitor irrigation efficiency and recommend water management strategies to conserve resources.
• Perform fertilizer, herbicide, insecticide, fungicide, and other agronomic applications as needed to support field operations or address peak workloads.
• Ensure all applications comply with product labels and federal, state, and local regulations.
• Train field personnel on application techniques, plant identification, turf management, calibration, and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with operations managers to improve landscape quality and operational efficiency.
• Provide technical expertise during client meetings and presentations to support business development.
• Maintain accurate records of agronomic programs, site evaluations, pesticide applications, and product performance.
• Stay informed on emerging research, products, and industry best practices in turfgrass and ornamental horticulture.

Requirements

• Five or more years of experience in commercial landscape management, turfgrass management, golf course management, or ornamental horticulture.
• Strong knowledge of turfgrass species, landscape plants, soil science, irrigation, fertility, and pest management.
• Experience with turfgrass and ornamental plant diagnostics, soil fertility, nutrient management, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
• Proficiency in pesticide application, equipment calibration, irrigation auditing, and water management.
• Leadership and employee training skills.
• Data analysis, problem-solving, and customer relationship management abilities.
• Budget planning and program development experience.

Qualifications

• Current state pesticide applicator license or ability to obtain and maintain one.
• Certified Arborist, Certified Landscape Professional, Certified Crop Adviser, or similar professional certification is preferred.

Physical Demands

• Frequent outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to walk large properties and inspect landscapes.
• Ability to operate spray equipment, spreaders, and other application tools.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Working Conditions

• Regular travel between client properties and branch locations.

Success Measures

• Improved turf quality and plant health across managed properties.
• Reduced pest pressure through effective IPM strategies.
• Efficient fertilizer and water use.
• High-quality, compliant agronomic applications.
• Increased client satisfaction and landscape quality scores.
• Compliance with all environmental and safety regulations.
• Enhanced training and technical competency among field personnel.