Landscape Laborer

Career Guide

A Landscape Laborer supports outdoor grounds and garden work to keep properties clean, healthy, and visually appealing. The role is hands-on and physically active, often working with a crew to complete planting, mowing, trimming, cleanups, and basic hardscape tasks.

Key Responsibilities

Mow lawns and edge walkways
Trim hedges and shrubs
Plant trees, flowers, and ground cover
Remove weeds and apply mulch
Rake leaves and remove debris
Load, unload, and move materials
Use hand tools and basic power tools
Water plants and monitor soil conditions
Support irrigation setup and simple repairs
Assist with basic landscape construction tasks
Follow safety procedures and wear protective gear
Maintain tools and keep work areas tidy

Top Skills for Success

Physical Stamina

Time Management

Teamwork

Reliability

Attention to Detail

Customer Service

Tool Handling

Equipment Operation

Plant Care

Pruning

Weed Control

Irrigation Basics

Job Site Safety

Pesticide Safety Awareness

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Landscape Crew Leader

Landscape Maintenance Technician

Irrigation Technician

Hardscape Installer

Pesticide Applicator

Arborist Apprentice

Transition Opportunities

Groundskeeper

Golf Course Maintenance Worker

Park Maintenance Worker

Property Maintenance Technician

Construction Laborer

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Equipment MaintenanceIrrigation TroubleshootingPruning TechniquePlant IdentificationSoil PreparationJob Estimation BasicsSafety Compliance

Development SuggestionsBuild skills through on-the-job practice, short local training courses, and safety certifications. Ask to rotate across tasks like irrigation, pruning, and equipment checks to broaden experience and qualify for higher-paying specialist roles.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry Level$28,000 to $36,000 per year

Mid Level$36,000 to $45,000 per year

Senior Level$45,000 to $58,000 per year

Growth Trend

Steady demand driven by ongoing property maintenance needs, seasonal peaks, and growth in residential and commercial landscaping.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

BrightViewThe Davey Tree Expert CompanyTruGreenLandCareYellowstone LandscapeUS Lawns

Industry Sectors

Residential LandscapingCommercial LandscapingProperty ManagementParks and RecreationSchools and UniversitiesHospitals and Healthcare CampusesGolf CoursesMunicipal Government

Recommended Next Steps

Create a one-page resume that highlights outdoor work, reliability, and safety habits

Track equipment experience such as mowers, trimmers, and blowers to show capability

Learn basic plant identification common to your region

Complete a basic first aid course if available through an employer or local provider

Request cross-training in irrigation tasks and seasonal cleanups

Ask your supervisor for a path to Crew Leader and the skills needed to qualify

If interested in chemical application work, pursue the required local applicator credential