Maintenance Crew Leader

About the Role

The Landscape Maintenance Crew Leader supervises and works alongside a crew of technicians to complete landscape installation and maintenance projects to the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and safety. This position leads daily field operations, ensures on-schedule and within-scope job completion, and fosters a positive team environment. The Crew Leader represents the company in client interactions and supports continuous improvement in safety, service, and crew development.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on landscaping duties, including handling plants, soil, mulch, gravel, pavers, and other materials.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as riding mowers, walk-behind mowers, backpack blowers, string trimmers, edgers, and hedge trimmers.
• Ensure tasks are performed according to job specifications and safety standards.
• Maintain clean, organized, and compliant job sites.
• Provide daily direction, delegation, and oversight for landscape technicians.
• Conduct on-the-job training for new crew members and reinforce best practices.
• Foster productivity, morale, and a strong work ethic through leadership by example.
• Monitor crew safety, conduct toolbox talks, and report incidents or concerns.
• Interact professionally with clients on-site, addressing concerns or updates.
• Communicate job status, progress, and crew performance to supervisors regularly.
• Represent the company’s values and brand in customer interactions.
• Accurately document daily labor hours and material usage.
• Ensure timesheets and job logs are submitted and verified promptly.
• Support documentation for site audits, change orders, and material deliveries.
• Promote and enforce safe work practices, PPE usage, and equipment safety procedures.
• Identify and address potential hazards in the field.
• Participate in safety trainings and ensure team compliance with safety protocols.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• 2-3 years of experience in the landscaping industry.
• 1+ years of leadership experience preferred.
• Valid state driver’s license required; DOT medical card or equipment certifications a plus.

Skills

• Strong understanding of landscape maintenance and installation techniques.
• Ability to lead and motivate a team effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in operating landscaping tools and machinery.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong verbal communication skills for team and customer interaction.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities and adjust plans as conditions change.

Key Performance Metrics

• On-time and on-budget project completion rates.
• Customer satisfaction and service quality feedback.
• Crew productivity and time management.
• Safety compliance and incident prevention.
• Accuracy in labor and material tracking.
• Crew retention and development success.

Working Conditions

Requires frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching, as well as regular use of hands and arms for manual labor and equipment operation. Must lift and carry materials and tools weighing up to 50 pounds, with heavier lifting team-assisted or reasonably accommodated. Involves operating landscaping tools such as trimmers, blowers, mowers, and shovels, and requires sufficient visual acuity and hand-eye coordination for safe machinery operation. May occasionally involve climbing or working at heights, including on ladders, slopes, or uneven terrain.

Work is performed outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, wind, and sun. Potential exposure to noise, dust, pollen, and landscaping chemicals. May require working on uneven terrain, near traffic, or within active construction zones. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety glasses, ear protection, and boots, is required.

Must be available for early start times, overtime, or weekend shifts as needed.