What does a Landscape Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A landscape technician is responsible for the installation and maintenance of landscaping projects. This may include installing irrigation systems, planting trees and shrubs, and performing general upkeep of the grounds. The technician may also be responsible for applying pesticides and herbicides to control weeds and pests.
Landscape Technician job duties include:
- Operate and maintain equipment such as mowers, edgers, trimmers, and blowers
- Mow lawns, using power mowers, and trim and edge around walks, flower beds, and walls
- Rake, mulch, and compost leaves and grass
- Plant seeds, bulbs, foliage, flowering plants, grass, ground covers, trees, and shrubs
- Water lawns and gardens using hoses or sprinklers
- Fertilize and treat lawns for insects and diseases using spreaders and sprayers
- Dig holes for plants using shovels or posthole diggers
- Prune trees, shrubs, hedges using shears or pruning saws
- Build wooden structures such as decks or gazebos
Landscape Technician Job Requirements
Most landscape technicians have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and many employers prefer to hire candidates with related experience. Many community colleges offer certificate programs in landscape technology, which can be beneficial for job seekers. Landscape technicians typically complete on-the-job training, lasting several months to a year. Some states have certification programs for landscape technicians, which may require the completion of an exam.
Landscape Technician Skills
- Plants
- Gardening
- Lawns
- Weeding
- Fertilizing
- Mowing
- Pruning
- Horticulture
- Landscaping
- Outdoors
- Physical labor
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How to become a Landscape Technician
A landscape technician is someone who is responsible for the maintenance and care of outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and other green areas. They typically work in teams under the supervision of a landscape architect or manager. In order to become a landscape technician, one should have a high school diploma or equivalent; however, some employers may prefer candidates who have completed post-secondary education in horticulture, agriculture, or a related field. Landscape technicians typically learn on the job, though some may receive formal training through an apprenticeship or certification program. The most important skills for a landscape technician are good physical stamina and strength, as they will be doing a lot of manual labor; attention to detail, as they need to be able to identify problems and find solutions; and teamwork, as they will be working closely with others.
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