Landscape Maintenance Operations Manager

Position Overview:

Southern Landscape Group, Inc. is seeking a hands-on, experienced Operations Manager to lead day-to-day field operations for our Landscape Management division. This is a field-based leadership role—approximately 70% field-based and 30% office-based. You will be expected to be out with your teams daily coaching team members, resolving issues, and ensuring we continue to provide unparalleled service and solutions to every client. You will also be expected to complete essential daily administrative tasks such as approving timesheets, allocating materials, updating Aspire schedules, scheduling subcontractors, and communicating with team members from other departments.  

Essential Responsibilities:

• Support the recruiting and retention of team members by interviewing and evaluating candidates as needed and working with the Admin team to make hiring decisions  
• Lead daily operations beginning at 6:30 AM, including morning huddles, team set-up, and preparation, and weekly team leader trainings 
• Maintain and optimize the Aspire schedule across all service divisions: 
• Commercial & Residential Landscape Maintenance  
• to include mowing, bi-weekly horticulture, irrigation, and turf services as well as subcontracted services 
• Enhancements  
• Plant Health Care 
• Provide hands-on support when needed to include providing basic equipment maintenance and assisting with equipment troubleshooting and repairs 
• Train and manage irrigation technician, assist and troubleshoot in the field as needed including diagnosing and resolving 2-wire irrigation system issues  
• Review and approve daily timesheets, manage budgeted vs. actual hours, and on-site time  
• Onboard and develop new team members; mentor and train team leaders 
• Work with the Production Manager to align schedules, problem solve any production or client issues, and maintain the SLG standard of unparalleled service and solutions 
• Coordinate closely with Account Managers to address any client needs, concerns, or issues on their property 
• Manage inventory materials  
• Manage equipment and tool inventory on trucks 
• Ensure all company facilities, vehicles, tools, and trailers are kept clean, safe, and operational 

Coordination & Oversight:

• The Operations Manager will directly oversee his or her teams in the field and provide support when training issues or operational inefficiencies arise, helping streamline performance and uphold standards across divisions. 

Work Environment & Weekly Workload: 

• Approximately 70% field-based, 30% office-based. Seasonal adjustments may be required depending on workload and weather. 
• Standard Hours: Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM 
• Will be responsible for closing one night per week on designated day 
• **Additional hours may be required during peak spring/summer months 
• Available by phone in the event that after hours communication is needed, especially with your team members 

Technical & Software Requirements: 

• Must be proficient in using a computer, email, and Aspire Landscape Software (*or the ability to quickly become proficient) 
• Able to manage scheduling, reporting, and communication tasks digitally and effectively 
• Able to manage multiple tasks in full 

Qualifications & Requirements: 

• 5+ years of experience in residential/commercial landscape maintenance  
• Willingness to effectively train and coach with a focus on safety, achieving goals, and improving operational efficiency 
• Familiarity with Aspire Landscape Software, or the ability to quickly become proficient 
• Ability to lead by example upholding the company’s mission and core values 
• Capability to listen first; talk last, stay composed under pressure and make quick decisions 
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and stand for extended periods throughout the day engaging in labor-intensive work when necessary. 

Compensation & Benefits:  

• $65,000 - $80,000 annualized salary 
• KPI Incentive bonus tied to team goals 
• Paid time off (vacation and sick time) 
• Paid holidays (7) 
• 401(k) with up to 4% company match 
• Medical insurance (50% company-paid; 75% company paid after three years of service) 
• Dental insurance  
• Vision insurance 
• Short-term disability 
• Life insurance 

About Southern Landscape Group: 

For 27 years, Southern Landscape Group has been Central Virginia’s premier landscape design/build and maintenance firm. With a focus on high-end residential and commercial properties, we deliver unparalleled service and solutions to our clients daily.

At Southern, it all starts with our team! We realize that we are only as good as the people we have representing our brand; therefore, our emphasis is on finding, retaining, and training the highest quality people! Our mission is to support and grow our teams so we can make our clients’ lives better. Our modern fleet of equipment & trucks, modern facility & technology, and focus on safety make working here a mutually beneficial experience!