Landscaper
Job Description:Landscapers create and maintain gardens, parks and other outdoor areas.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this role you could:
- talk to clients about what they need
- work from a plan made by a garden designer or landscape architect
- plant shrubs and trees, order supplies and sow lawns
- install paths, water features and rock gardens
- advise clients on how to look after the space
Skills:
You’ll need:
- the ability to work with garden design drawings
- practical skills to work with a variety of tools, and possibly small plant machinery
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations (leadership skills)
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- physical skills like lifting, bending and carrying
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- the ability to work well with your hands
- physical fitness and endurance
Entry Requirements:
To become a landscaper, you don’t necessarily need specific qualifications, but certain subjects and skills can be helpful for entering this field and pursuing relevant further education or training. Landscapers are responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining outdoor spaces, gardens, and landscapes. Here’s a list of subjects and skills that can be beneficial for a career in landscaping:
- Mathematics: Basic mathematical skills are important for measuring areas, calculating materials needed, and budgeting for projects.
- Science: Courses in biology and environmental science can provide insights into plant biology, soil composition, and ecology, which are relevant to landscaping.
- Design and Technology: These courses can help you develop practical skills and an understanding of tools and materials used in landscaping projects.
- Art and Design: Courses in art or design can foster creativity and an appreciation for aesthetics in landscaping design.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Proficiency in using computers and design software is important for creating and presenting landscaping plans.
- Geography: Geography can provide insights into landforms, climate, and environmental factors that influence landscaping choices.
- English Language: Strong communication skills are crucial for working with clients, writing proposals, and communicating project details to team members.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- a specialist training course
College
You could take a college course to get some of the skills you might need as a landscaper.
In the UK, for example, courses include:
- Diploma in Skills for Working in Horticulture Industries
- Certificate in Practical Horticulture
- Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture
- Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production
Apprenticeship
You could do an apprenticeship to start or progress as a landscaper.
You could do a:
- horticulture and landscape operative intermediate apprenticeship
- landscape supervisor advanced apprenticeship if you have already have some experience
- horticulture and landscaping technical manager higher apprenticeship to progress to become a landscaping project manger or site manager
Work
You could start as an assistant landscaper and work your way up.
It might be helpful to have some related work experience when you apply for jobs.
Direct Application
There are no set requirements to be a landscaper. However, most employers will expect you to have some knowledge and experience in horticulture.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 38-40 hours of work. You could be required to work weekends flexibly.
You could work in a garden, at a client’s business, at a client’s home or at a garden centre. Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers. You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience you could:
- move up to become a landscape supervisor or landscape manager
- become self-employed
- move into teaching