Horticulturist & Turf Care Specialist

Location: Naperville, IL
Position Type: Full-time
Compensation: $24/hour depending on experience

Western DuPage Landscaping is an established landscaping company that has been serving the Chicagoland area and the western suburbs for nearly 50 years. We pride ourselves on our passionate staff whose focus is on quality. We are seeking candidates who fit our core values and can grow with our team, building on our extensive history of creating landscapes that are built to last.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensure high-quality project outcomes through hands-on leadership, training, and support of field staff.
  • Provide technical expertise in landscape maintenance, horticulture, and turf management best practices.
  • Support and supervise maintenance crews through direct field involvement and coaching.
  • Identify plant species and ensure proper plant selection, placement, and installation based on site conditions.
  • Maintain and oversee the care of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, and seasonal plantings.
  • Perform and direct plant maintenance activities including watering, pruning, fertilization, mulching, and pest management.
  • Plan and execute seasonal color rotations for landscape beds and container plantings.
  • Monitor plant and turf health, diagnosing and addressing pest, disease, nutrient, and environmental issues.
  • Collaborate with landscape architecture, design, construction, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless project execution.
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships while understanding maintenance objectives, budgets, and long-term landscape goals.
  • Operate landscape and grounds maintenance equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure compliance with company safety standards, horticultural best practices, and environmental regulations.
  • Maintain a professional appearance and represent the company positively when interacting with clients and team members.

Physical:

  • Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to stoop, squat, kneel, bend, twist, and perform repetitive physical movements.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and move heavy materials and equipment.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and other inclement
  • weather.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks requiring strength, stamina, and endurance.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Strong knowledge of plant identification and care, including trees, shrubs, flowers, perennials, annuals, and native species.
  • Understanding of soil science, fertility management, and plant nutrition.Ability to obtain and maintain a pesticide applicator certification.
  • Knowledge of pest and disease identification, treatment, and integrated pest management (IPM) practices.
  • Experience with pruning, trimming, and plant health care techniques.
  • Understanding of irrigation systems, water management, and drought mitigation practices.
  • Knowledge of seasonal planting schedules and landscape maintenance programs.
  • Ability to select appropriate plant materials based on environmental conditions and design intent.
  • Familiarity with sustainable and environmentally responsible horticultural practices.
  • Ability to operate landscape and grounds maintenance equipment, including mowers, tractors, aerators, trimmers, spreaders, sprayers, and utility vehicles.
  • Knowledge of plant propagation methods, including seed, cutting, and grafting techniques.
  • Strong communication, leadership, training, and problem-solving skills.
  • Knowledge of hardscape materials and installation practices preferred.

Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Turfgrass Management, Landscape Management, Agronomy, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in horticulture, landscape maintenance, turf management, or a related industry.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record. 
  • Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain certification within a specified period of employment.

TO APPLY

Apply with your resume and cover letter to Susan Kucera (susan@wdlinc.com).