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Landscaper job description template

The Landscaper executes daily field operations to construct, install, and maintain commercial and residential outdoor properties. A free, ready-to-edit job description for Canadian employers: duties, qualifications, skills, working conditions and performance measures.

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NOC 2021 code: 85121 (Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers, TEER 5)
The National Occupational Classification code for this role, used on Job Bank and LMIA forms. See the official NOC profile · What is a NOC code?
How to use it: fill in the [HIGHLIGHTED] blanks, delete duties that don't fit your business, and add the pay range. The "What to fill in" table at the end explains each blank.
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Position Identification

Field Value
Job title Landscaper
Reports to [REPORTS_TO_TITLE]
Direct reports None
Employment type [EMPLOYMENT_TYPE]
Work schedule [WORK_SCHEDULE]
Location [WORK_LOCATION], [PROVINCE]
Overtime eligibility [OVERTIME_ELIGIBILITY]
NOC code 85121 (Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers), NOC 2021
Salary range [SALARY_RANGE_MIN] to [SALARY_RANGE_MAX]
Effective date [EFFECTIVE_DATE]
Last reviewed [LAST_REVIEWED_DATE]

1. Position Summary

The Landscaper executes daily field operations to construct, install, and maintain commercial and residential outdoor properties. Operating under the direction of [REPORTS_TO_TITLE], this role performs grounds maintenance, horticultural installations, site grading, hardscape assistance, and seasonal property care. The role directly impacts client satisfaction, property health, and operational safety by ensuring work sites meet quality standards and safety regulations. Occupational alignment follows national taxonomy benchmarks for landscape horticulture and grounds maintenance personnel.

2. Key Responsibilities

2.1 Grounds Maintenance and Turf Care (25%)

  • Operate commercial walk-behind and zero-turn mowers, line trimmers, edgers, and blowers across assigned properties according to scheduled cut heights and patterns.
  • Aerate, de-thatch, seed, sod, and fertilize lawn areas according to seasonal turf management schedules.
  • Inspect turf for signs of pest infestations, disease, weeds, and moisture stress, reporting issues directly to [REPORTS_TO_TITLE].
  • Edge sidewalks, driveways, curbs, and garden perimeters cleanly to maintain sharp borders and clean finish lines.

2.2 Planting, Softscaping, and Garden Bed Care (20%)

  • Prepare soil beds by digging, tilling, grading, and incorporating organic matter or soil amendments.
  • Plant trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, and ground covers according to depth, spacing, and staking specifications on landscape drawings.
  • Prune and trim hedges, ornamental shrubs, and low tree branches using manual and powered pruning tools to encourage plant vitality and maintain aesthetic standards.
  • Spread mulch, decorative rock, compost, and topsoil to specified depths across plant beds to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

2.3 Hardscape and Site Preparation Support (15%)

  • Assist with excavation, base preparation, levelling, and aggregate compaction for paver walkways, patios, retaining walls, and edging.
  • Transport materials including gravel, sand, concrete pavers, stone, and timbers across job sites using wheelbarrows and motorized site dumpers.
  • Cut and place landscape fabric, drain pipes, and edge restraints according to layout lines.
  • Mix, pour, and finish concrete or mortar for small footings, post settings, and masonry repairs under supervisor direction.

2.4 Equipment Operation and Daily Maintenance (15%)

  • Conduct pre-operational inspections on all assigned equipment, including oil levels, fluid levels, belt tension, tire pressure, and safety interlocks.
  • Clean, sharpen, lubricate, and refuel small engine equipment, hand tools, and trailers at the end of each work shift.
  • Report mechanical malfunctions, unusual noises, structural cracks, or missing safety guards immediately to [OWNER_OR_MANAGER].
  • Secure all tools, machinery, and materials safely on transport trailers and truck beds using rated tie-down straps and chains.

2.5 Site Cleanup, Waste Management, and Environmental Care (10%)

  • Collect and separate green waste, soil, brush, rock, and construction debris from customer properties daily.
  • Load and haul debris to designated disposal or organic recycling facilities following local waste handling rules.
  • Sweep and wash down paved surfaces, driveways, walkways, and road access points before leaving the customer site.
  • Protect surrounding property elements, utilities, and existing plants from accidental mechanical damage during site work.

2.6 Seasonal Property Care and Winter Support (10%)

  • Execute spring and fall cleanups, including leaf removal, dead foliage cutbacks, burlap plant wrapping, and winterization of irrigation fixtures.
  • Clear snow and ice from commercial and residential walkways, steps, and parking surfaces using snow blowers, power brushes, and hand shovels during off-season deployments.
  • Apply de-icing agents and traction sand according to property management agreements and environmental run-off guidelines.
  • Maintain logs of snow removal times, chemical applications, and site conditions for operational records.

2.7 Health, Safety, and Compliance (5%)

  • Comply with provincial occupational health and safety regulations, internal safe work procedures, and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) requirements.
  • Wear all [REQUIRED_PPE] mandatory for assigned tasks, including safety footwear, eye protection, hearing protection, and high-visibility vests.
  • Identify and report job site hazards, underground utility conflicts, and near misses to [REPORTS_TO_TITLE] before commencing excavation or tree work.
  • Participate actively in morning tailgate safety meetings and maintain clean, organized work zones.

3. Qualifications & Experience

Role Qualifications and Hiring Requirements

Category Required Preferred
Education Secondary school diploma or equivalent experience. Post-secondary coursework or certificate in horticulture, landscape design, or arboriculture.
Licences & Certifications Valid provincial driver's licence with clean driver abstract.
Standard First Aid and CPR Level C or willingness to obtain within [CERTIFICATION_DEADLINE].
Landscape Industry Certified Technician (LICT) or Landscape Horticulturist Apprentice designation.
Provincial pesticide applicator licence.
WHMIS certification.
Experience Minimum 1 year of practical experience in commercial landscaping, grounds maintenance, or general outdoor labour. 2+ years of experience operating commercial landscape maintenance equipment and light excavation machinery.
Technical & Mechanical Skills Demonstrated ability to operate string trimmers, blowers, push mowers, hedge trimmers, and hand tools safely. Experience operating zero-turn mowers, skid steers, mini-excavators, plate compactors, and towing utility trailers.
Language & Communication Basic working proficiency in English to read safety instructions, chemical labels, and execute work orders. Bilingual proficiency where required by regional operational needs.
Physical & Environmental Physical capability to lift [MAX_LIFT_WEIGHT_KG] repeatedly, bend, kneel, and perform sustained outdoor manual labour in varying weather conditions. Practical knowledge of plant identification, weed recognition, and basic irrigation system repair.

Note: Qualification standards reflect bona fide operational requirements and support barrier-free workplace access.

4. Competencies

Core Role Competencies

Competency Definition Behavioural Indicators
Equipment Operation & Safety Understands mechanics, limitations, and safety controls of landscape tools and power equipment. • Inspects machines before startup and refuses unsafe equipment.
• Operates equipment at safe speeds without causing site damage.
• Performs end-of-day tool maintenance and greasing consistently.
Quality & Detail Orientation Focuses on high aesthetic and structural standards in all physical property maintenance and installation work. • Cuts clean edges, straight mow lines, and level bed surfaces.
• Verifies plant depth and spacing matches instructions.
• Cleans client hard surfaces thoroughly before leaving sites.
Teamwork & Field Communication Works constructively with crew members and crew leads to achieve daily production targets. • Follows instructions from [REPORTS_TO_TITLE] without delay.
• Coordinates safely with co-workers when lifting heavy materials.
• Communicates material shortages or delays proactively.
Safety & Hazard Awareness Recognizes outdoor, mechanical, and biological risks, taking immediate preventative action. • Identifies overhead wires, buried cables, and wet slope hazards.
• Uses required [REQUIRED_PPE] 100% of the time on job sites.
• Reports accidents, injuries, and near-misses immediately.
Physical Stamina & Resilience Maintains consistent physical output and pace during demanding outdoor conditions across shifts. • Manages hydration, sun protection, and ergonomic lift form.
• Maintains productivity during hot, cold, or damp weather.
• Adapts to shifting physical priorities throughout the work day.
Customer Care & Site Etiquette Represents the business professionally while present on commercial and residential customer sites. • Treats client property, pets, and structures with care.
• Directs customer requests or complaints promptly to [REPORTS_TO_TITLE].
• Maintains a clean, respectful personal presentation and vehicle setup.

5. Working Conditions & Performance Measures

5.1 Working Conditions and Physical Demands

This role requires physical labour in changing outdoor environments. The data below supports accommodation and return-to-work evaluations under applicable human rights and duty to accommodate frameworks.

Physical Demands and Working Environment

Demand Frequency Description
Heavy Lifting & Carrying Frequent Lifting, loading, and moving landscaping materials, bagged aggregates, sod, and trees up to [MAX_LIFT_WEIGHT_KG].
Standing, Walking, & Bending Continuous Walking over uneven, sloped, or soft terrain; bending, stooping, kneeling, and digging for 6 to 10 hours per shift.
Small Engine & Hand Tool Operation Frequent Operating vibrating, high-torque tools (weed trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, tampers) for extended periods.
Outdoor Weather Exposure Continuous Exposure to direct sunlight, high heat, humidity, rain, wind, freezing temperatures, and snow conditions.
Dust, Pollen, & Chemical Exposure Frequent Working in environments with ambient organic dust, pollen, exhaust fumes, soil particulates, and mild turf fertilizers.
Noise Exposure Frequent Working in environments exceeding 85 dBA during equipment operation, requiring mandatory hearing protection.
Vehicle & Equipment Travel Frequent Riding in or driving crew trucks between client job sites throughout the work shift.
Shift Work & Variable Hours Occasional Extended shifts, early morning starts, or weekend shifts during peak spring planting or winter snow events.
Personal Protective Equipment Continuous Mandatory use of [REQUIRED_PPE] (steel-toe boots, ear protection, eye protection, gloves, high-visibility vest).

5.2 Performance Measures

Performance Evaluation Metrics

Measure Definition Target Frequency
Site Quality & Workmanship Evaluation of finished site aesthetics, clean bed edging, turf cut quality, and lack of site debris. ≥ 95% pass rate on supervisor site audits Monthly
Equipment Care & Damage Tracking avoidable equipment damage, tool loss, and completion of daily maintenance logs. Zero avoidable maintenance incidents; logs 100% complete Quarterly
Safety & PPE Compliance Adherence to safe working methods, mandatory PPE usage, and timely hazard reporting. Zero safety violations or unaddressed hazard reports Continuous
Productivity & Job Pacing Completion of designated property tasks within budgeted crew labour hours. Within 10% of budgeted route or project time allocations Monthly
Attendance & Reliability Punctual arrival at shop dispatch for scheduled crew departures. ≥ 98% on-time attendance for scheduled shifts Monthly

5.3 Career Path

  • Typical Prior Roles: General Labourer, Grounds Maintenance Worker, Farm Worker, Construction Helper, Warehouse Associate.
  • Typical Next Roles: Landscape Crew Lead, Landscape Construction Specialist, Heavy Equipment Operator, Landscape Maintenance Supervisor, Horticultural Technician.

5.4 Acknowledgement

This job description outlines the primary duties, responsibilities, and working conditions of the Landscaper role. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties that may be assigned. [ORGANIZATION_NAME] reserves the right to amend and update this position description with reasonable notice to meet operational needs.

Incumbent Sign-Off:


[EMPLOYEE_NAME] (Print Name)


Signature


Date (DD-MMM-YYYY)

Manager Sign-Off:


[MANAGER_NAME], [REPORTS_TO_TITLE] (Print Name & Title)


Signature


Date (DD-MMM-YYYY)


What to fill in

Placeholder What to enter Who provides it Required?
[REPORTS_TO_TITLE] Title of the direct supervisor (e.g., Landscape Crew Leader, Maintenance Supervisor, Operations Manager) Business Owner / HR Yes
[EMPLOYMENT_TYPE] Nature of employment (e.g., Full-Time Seasonal, Permanent Full-Time, Part-Time) Business Owner / HR Yes
[WORK_SCHEDULE] Standard shift schedule (e.g., Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; subject to weather delays) Operations Manager Yes
[WORK_LOCATION] Primary shop, yard, or dispatch location Operations Manager Yes
[PROVINCE] Canadian province or territory of primary employment Business Owner / HR Yes
[OVERTIME_ELIGIBILITY] Eligible or Not eligible. Overtime rules and exclusions are set by the province or territory where the work is done (overtime, holidays and vacation by province). Several provinces and territories exclude many managers and supervisors, but not all do. Business Owner / HR Yes
[SALARY_RANGE_MIN] Lowest and highest base pay for the role. Pay must be at least the minimum wage where the work is done (minimum wage by province). If you advertise the job publicly in Ontario (25 or more employees), British Columbia or Prince Edward Island, the posting must state the pay or range (pay in job postings by province). Business Owner / HR Yes
[SALARY_RANGE_MAX] Maximum hourly wage or annual salary for the position Business Owner / HR Yes
[EFFECTIVE_DATE] Date this job description goes into effect (e.g., 01-APR-2024) HR / Operations Yes
[LAST_REVIEWED_DATE] Date this document was last evaluated for accuracy HR / Operations Yes
[OWNER_OR_MANAGER] Title or name of the primary operational owner or repair manager Business Owner Yes
[PROBATION_PERIOD] Length of the introductory period, if you use one, in months or days. Employment standards laws do not set a standard probation period. They set the point after which written notice or pay in lieu is owed when you end employment without cause. Keep your period no longer than that point for your province (probation and notice by province). HR / Business Owner Yes
[CERTIFICATION_DEADLINE] Date, or number of days after the start date, by which the certificate must be held. Choose a date that is reasonable for the role. HR / Owner Yes
[MAX_LIFT_WEIGHT_KG] Maximum weight in kilograms the role must unassisted lift (e.g., 23 kg / 50 lbs) Safety / Operations Yes
[REQUIRED_PPE] Specific PPE required on site (e.g., CSA-approved steel-toe boots, Class 2 high-vis vest, ear protection, safety glasses) Safety / Operations Yes
[ORGANIZATION_NAME] Operating business name of the employer Business Owner Yes
[EMPLOYEE_NAME] Full legal name of the employee Employee Yes
[MANAGER_NAME] Full legal name of the supervising manager Manager Yes

Employment standards where you hire

Pay, overtime, holidays and notice for a landscaper are set by the province or territory where the work is done. Federally regulated employers (such as banks, airlines and interprovincial trucking) follow the Canada Labour Code. These are the minimums as of 7 October 2026. Most managers and some other roles are excluded from overtime, and the exclusions differ by province.

Where the work is doneMinimum wage (per hour)Overtime after (hours)Paid public holidaysNotice owed after
Federal$18.158 a day or 40 a week103 months
Nova Scotia$17.0048 a week63 months
New Brunswick$15.9044 a week86 months
Prince Edward Island$17.3044 a week890 days
Newfoundland and Labrador$16.3540 a week63 months
Quebec$16.6040 a week83 months
Ontario$17.9544 a week93 months
Manitoba$16.408 a day or 40 a week930 days
Saskatchewan$15.708 a day or 40 a week1013 weeks
Alberta$15.008 a day or 44 a week990 days
British Columbia$18.258 a day or 40 a week113 months
Yukon$18.518 a day or 40 a week116 months
Northwest Territories$17.208 a day or 40 a week1190 days
Nunavut$20.178 a day or 40 a week1190 days

Public job postings must state the pay or a range in Ontario (25 or more employees), British Columbia and Prince Edward Island. Full rules, vacation pay, final pay and sources: employment standards by province.

Official sources

Government and professional sources for this template. Pay, hours, holidays and notice are set by the province or territory where the work is done.

This template is general information for Canadian employers, not legal advice. Employment standards, human rights and privacy rules differ by province. Checked against official government sources on 7 October 2026. See employment standards by province.

Questions

What does a landscaper do?

The Landscaper executes daily field operations to construct, install, and maintain commercial and residential outdoor properties. Operating under the direction of [REPORTS_TO_TITLE], this role performs grounds maintenance, horticultural installations, site grading, hardscape assistance, and seasonal property care. The role directly impacts client satisfaction, property health, and operational safety by ensuring work sites meet quality standards and safety regulations. Occupational alignment follows national taxonomy benchmarks for landscape horticulture and grounds maintenance personnel.

What is the NOC code for a landscaper?

85121 (Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers) in the 2021 National Occupational Classification, TEER 5. The NOC code is used on Job Bank postings, Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications and other government forms. Check the official NOC profile to confirm it matches the duties of your job.

What should a landscaper job description include?

A short summary of the role, the main duties with a rough share of time, required and preferred qualifications, the skills you'll assess, working conditions and physical demands, and how performance is measured. State the pay range and who the person reports to; Ontario (25 or more employees), British Columbia and Prince Edward Island require the pay or a range in public postings. This template covers all of it; fill in the highlighted blanks and remove anything that doesn't apply.

Can I use this template for free?

Yes. Download it as a Word file, copy the text, or print it. Staffkin can also turn it into a prescreen and interview guide for the same role.

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