Landscape Architect

Horticulturist Landscape Architect

Ocala, Florida

Highlights:

• Stability: Company has history of no layoffs during downturns due to strong financial position (zero debt)
• Land Position: 1000’s of secured and debt-free lots; 10+ years of buildable land currently held
• Quality / Sustainability: Premier 55+ active adult community focused on green and sustainability practices
• Compensation / Benefits: Competitive compensation and full array of benefits; including several discounts for services, products and leisure activities

Responsibilities:

The Horticulturist / Landscape Architect is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and oversight of the organization's overall horticultural landscape-related activities. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of landscape design, maintenance, and horticultural knowledge/practices, coupled with strong leadership and management skills. The Horticulturist / Landscape Architect will ensure the efficient and effective delivery of landscape services, while promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.

What you will do:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute long-term strategic plans for landscape operations aligning with the organization's objectives.
• Conduct market research and industry analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities for innovation.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the department.
• Proactively plan and schedule work duties independently or with a team and management.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, under direct or indirect supervision, and on specific deadlines. Ability to instruct and lead experienced and novice garden interns, volunteers, and employees.

Financial Stewardship

• Oversee the department's budget development and management, ensuring efficient resource allocation and cost-effective operations.
• Prepare and analyze financial reports and metrics to track performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships to optimize pricing and service levels.

Team Development:

• Recruit, hire, train, and develop a high-performing team of landscape professionals.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to ensure optimal performance and professional growth.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork, employee engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Project Management Excellence:

• Oversee the planning, execution, and completion of landscape projects, including new installations, renovations, and maintenance.
• Develop comprehensive project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation plans.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and implement proactive measures to mitigate challenges.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship:

• Implement sustainable landscaping practices to minimize environmental impact and promote resource conservation.
• Explore and adopt innovative green technologies and practices.
• Collaborate with other departments to integrate sustainability into the organization's operations.
• Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health, & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, codes, and industry standards.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to identify and address potential non-compliance issues.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to maintain compliance and mitigate risks.

Customer Service Excellence:

• Foster strong relationships with residents, staff, Association Management, and other stakeholders.
• Respond promptly to customer inquiries and address concerns in a professional and timely manner.
• Continuously strive to exceed customer expectations and deliver exceptional service.

Pest and Tree Management:

• Oversee the prevention, control, and treatment of pests and diseases affecting the landscape.
• Manage the organization's arboricultural program, including tree inspections, pruning, removals, and hazard assessments.
• Ensure compliance with local and state pest control and tree management regulations.
• Responsible for shrub, vine, ground cover, and turf maintenance, including decision-making on method, timing, and tools.
• Responsible for culture and care of specialty crops, including roses, topiaries, and foliage plants.
• Responsible for bedding plant selection, care, and layout.
• Performs diagnosis of plant nutrition and pest control needs, fertilization, and herbicide.
• Performs landscape rehabilitation, including demolition and installation.
• Ability to troubleshoot pipes and potential irrigation leaks/problems.

What you will need:

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in landscape management, preferably in or in collaboration with a Master Planned Community.
• FNGLA Certification required
• Current Certified Pest Control Operator and Certified Arborist certifications or the ability to obtain them within one year of employment is required.
• A valid Florida Driver’s License with acceptable driving history is required.
• Proven leadership and management skills with a track record of success
• Strong knowledge of plant and soil science, irrigation, landscape design, maintenance, and horticultural practices
• Experience with contract management, budgeting, and financial analysis
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Knowledge of landscaping methods and proper use of chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides.
• Ability to identify common plants and insect or disease conditions on plants.

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Pest Control Operator and Certified Arborist certifications
• ISA Arborist Certification preferred
• Experience with sustainable landscaping practices and green infrastructure
• Education in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, irrigation, or any similar trade is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Bilingual (Spanish) preferred

Personal Attributes:

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to communicate and manage well at all levels of the organization
• Honesty and integrity
• Team builder and team player
• Emotionally intelligent
• Self-motivated
• Strong work ethic
• Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion