Campus Landscape Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the contemporary education environment, the role of Campus Landscape Managers is increasingly significant.
As institutions of higher learning evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can plan, maintain, and enhance the physical aesthetics of our campuses grows stronger.
But what exactly does a Campus Landscape Manager do?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of campus landscape management,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Campus Landscape Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Campus Landscape Manager Duties and Responsibilities
Campus Landscape Managers are responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of landscape and grounds maintenance on a campus.
Their main goal is to ensure that the campus outdoor environment is attractive, functional, and in a clean and safe condition.
The duties and responsibilities of a Campus Landscape Manager may include:
- Developing and implementing landscape maintenance plans and schedules
- Supervising landscape maintenance staff, including hiring, training, and performance evaluation
- Inspecting campus grounds regularly to assess the health of plants, trees, and lawns
- Coordinating with other departments or contractors for projects such as tree removal, landscaping improvements, and irrigation systems installation or repair
- Procuring and managing inventory of plants, trees, tools, equipment, and other landscape materials
- Ensuring all landscape maintenance work is compliant with environmental regulations
- Identifying and addressing potential safety hazards related to campus grounds and landscape
- Managing the budget for landscape maintenance and projects
- Communicating with campus stakeholders about landscape-related activities and projects
- Keeping up-to-date records of landscape maintenance activities and reporting as required
Campus Landscape Manager Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are in search of a dedicated Campus Landscape Manager to oversee and manage all landscaping activities on our campus.
The Campus Landscape Manager will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining aesthetically pleasing and sustainable landscapes, while ensuring the maintenance of trees, shrubs, flowers, and turf.
Our ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of horticulture, landscape design, and effective management practices.
Ultimately, the role of the Campus Landscape Manager is to create and maintain an inviting and environmentally friendly campus atmosphere.
Responsibilities
- Design, implement and maintain landscapes across the campus
- Oversee the maintenance of trees, shrubs, flowers, and turf
- Develop and manage a sustainable plant health care program
- Coordinate and supervise landscaping staff and contractors
- Develop and manage landscaping budgets
- Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations
- Collaborate with other departments for campus events and projects
- Perform regular inspections and assessments of the campus landscape
- Implement effective erosion and drainage management plans
- Source materials and supplies from vendors
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a Landscape Manager or similar role
- Knowledge of horticulture, landscape design, and environmental best practices
- Experience in managing landscaping projects
- Ability to use landscape design software
- Familiarity with budget development and oversight
- Excellent organizational and leadership skills
- Effective communication skills
- A degree in Horticulture, Landscape Design, or a related field
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Campus Landscape Manager
- Work Environment: Outdoor setting with occasional office work. Must be prepared to work in various weather conditions.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Campus Facilities Director.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Campus Landscape Manager Do?
A Campus Landscape Manager is responsible for the overall appearance and functionality of a school, college, or university’s outdoor environment.
They work primarily in the educational sector, although some may be employed by private businesses with expansive grounds.
They supervise the maintenance, design, and enhancement of landscapes, gardens, and green spaces across the campus.
This includes tasks like mowing lawns, pruning trees and shrubs, planting new greenery, and ensuring the health of all plants.
They also coordinate with other departments and management to plan and implement landscaping projects, such as installing new irrigation systems or creating outdoor recreational areas.
Additionally, they are in charge of managing landscape personnel, creating work schedules, and ensuring that safety procedures are followed at all times.
Campus Landscape Managers also play a crucial role in sustainability initiatives, from managing waste and water usage to promoting biodiversity on campus.
Lastly, they oversee the campus’s appearance during different seasons and prepare for weather-related challenges such as snow removal or storm damage cleanup.
Campus Landscape Manager Qualifications and Skills
A competent Campus Landscape Manager needs a range of skills and qualifications, including:
- Experience and knowledge in horticulture or landscape design to plan, develop, and maintain the campus’s outdoor environment.
- Strong leadership and management skills to guide and monitor the performance of a diverse team of groundskeepers, gardeners, and other staff.
- Excellent budgeting skills to handle all financial aspects of landscape management, including cost estimation and allocation.
- Ability to work with a variety of landscaping tools and equipment, and knowledge of their maintenance and safety protocols.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with staff, students, and visitors, and to coordinate with other campus departments.
- Problem-solving skills to address any landscape-related issues, such as pest infestations or plant diseases, efficiently.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising tasks and meeting deadlines.
- Knowledge and experience with environmental and sustainability practices to ensure the campus landscape is maintained in a manner that is eco-friendly.
- Physical stamina and good health to handle the demands of outdoor work in various weather conditions.
Campus Landscape Manager Experience Requirements
Candidates for a Campus Landscape Manager role typically need to have several years of experience in landscaping, horticulture, or a related field.
Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, possibly gained through part-time work, internships or cooperative education programs in landscape design or grounds maintenance.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have hands-on practical knowledge of landscape maintenance, irrigation systems, and pest management.
They may have developed their skills in roles such as Landscape Technician, Groundskeeper, or Horticulturist.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have managerial or supervisory experience in a landscape or grounds maintenance setting.
They are typically responsible for managing a team, developing budgets, and planning and executing landscape projects.
This level of experience is often necessary to handle the breadth of responsibilities and strategic planning required in a Campus Landscape Manager role.
In addition to work experience, a degree or certification in horticulture, landscape design, or a related field is often required.
Continuous professional development and staying updated with the latest trends in landscaping and environmental sustainability is also beneficial in this role.
Campus Landscape Manager Education and Training Requirements
A Campus Landscape Manager typically needs a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, landscape design, or a related field.
These degree programs provide training in plant biology, soil science, landscape ecology and design, and practical aspects of maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape.
Experience in landscape maintenance, plant care, and landscaping equipment use is also essential for this role, which can be obtained through internships, summer jobs, or in some cases, through coursework.
Some positions may require certification in areas such as pesticide application, irrigation systems, or equipment operation, which can be obtained through state or national professional associations.
Although not mandatory, a master’s degree in landscape architecture or a related field may be desirable, especially for more complex or large-scale projects.
This degree can demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills, as well as a commitment to ongoing learning.
Furthermore, some campus landscape managers may pursue specialized certifications in sustainable landscaping, water management, or other relevant areas to enhance their expertise and competency in the role.
Campus Landscape Manager Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Campus Landscape Manager is $56,000 (USD) per year.
However, the actual income can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, location, and the specific institution or company that employs them.
Campus Landscape Manager Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Campus Landscape Manager need?
Campus Landscape Managers should possess excellent organizational and project management skills, as they typically oversee multiple projects simultaneously.
They should also have a strong knowledge of horticulture, irrigation systems, and landscape design.
Good physical stamina, strong observational skills, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also necessary.
Do Campus Landscape Managers need a degree?
A degree in landscape architecture or a related field is usually preferred for a Campus Landscape Manager position.
In some cases, substantial work experience in the landscaping industry, particularly in a managerial role, may be considered in lieu of formal education.
Additionally, some roles may require a professional certification or license in landscape management or a related field.
What should you look for in a Campus Landscape Manager resume?
Look for a combination of formal education in landscaping or horticulture and practical experience in landscape management.
Experience with planning, designing, and maintaining outdoor spaces, particularly on a large scale like a campus, is crucial.
Also, look for skills like project management, budgeting, and staff supervision.
Certifications related to landscaping or horticulture can also be a plus.
What qualities make a good Campus Landscape Manager?
A good Campus Landscape Manager should be detail-oriented and have a keen eye for aesthetics, ensuring the campus is visually pleasing and well-maintained.
They should also have strong leadership skills to effectively manage their team.
Good physical stamina is necessary for the hands-on aspects of the job.
They should also have good problem-solving skills to address any landscaping issues that may arise.
How do Campus Landscape Managers contribute to the campus environment?
Campus Landscape Managers play a crucial role in creating and maintaining an inviting, engaging outdoor environment on campus.
They ensure that the campus landscape is aesthetically pleasing, functional, and safe for all campus residents and visitors.
They also contribute to sustainability initiatives by implementing eco-friendly landscaping practices.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve unearthed the intriguing details of what it truly means to be a Campus Landscape Manager.
Surprise, surprise!
It’s not just about planting trees and maintaining lawns.
It’s about shaping the aesthetic future of our educational institutions, one landscape design at a time.
With our go-to Campus Landscape Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to embark on this journey.
But don’t just stop here.
Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next stage to meticulously crafted job listings or polishing your resume to be flawless.
Remember:
Every landscape design is a piece of the larger panorama.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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