Job Description

Landscape Manager

Reporting directly to the Facilities Superintendent, the Landscape Manager is responsible for leading, shaping, and continuously enhancing the visual character, horticultural quality, and overall aesthetic experience of the property. This role oversees general landscape and maintenance operations, special improvement projects requiring specialized expertise or equipment, and equipment and vehicle maintenance activities. The Landscape Manager plays a critical role in creating an inviting, high-quality, and mission-aligned environment that reflects the standards and values of the Detroit Zoological Society. Through thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and proactive stewardship, the position ensures that all outdoor spaces are safe, attractive, well-maintained, and emotionally engaging for guests, staff, and the community. The Landscape Manager will actively support and advance DZS principles by reinforcing Customer Service Standards and fully understanding and applying the organization's SCOPE of service, animal care priorities, community relations, and park appearance expectations. The role demands professionalism, integrity, and strong visual judgment, with an emphasis on how landscape presentation influences guest perception, comfort, and overall experience. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be modified to meet evolving organizational needs.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan, prioritize, and manage landscape and maintenance activities using the work order system, ensuring work aligns with established appearance standards and seasonal presentation goals.
• Inspect completed work with a focus on quality, consistency, craftsmanship, and visual impact, identifying opportunities for refinement or enhancement.
• Assign and oversee contractor and vendor work, ensuring outcomes meet design intent, aesthetic expectations, and DZS standards.
• Provide on-site leadership across the property to ensure landscapes are well-composed, healthy, and guest-ready at all times.
• Proactively identify improvements to planting design, turf quality, hardscape integration, and site detailing that elevate the look and feel of the grounds.
• Research emerging landscape practices, materials, and equipment that support sustainability, durability, and enhanced appearance, and recommend adoption where appropriate.
• Oversee and support training related to new equipment, processes, or landscape standards.
• Prepare cost analyses and recommendations that balance budget responsibility with long-term aesthetic value.
• Year-round responsibilities dictated by season and weather which include snow/ice management.
• Collaborate with internal departments to coordinate landscape work that supports programming, animal care, and guest flow.
• Maintain compliance with all safety, regulatory, and DZS policies while ensuring safety measures are seamlessly integrated into the guest experience.
• Order and approve materials with consideration for visual quality, longevity, and compatibility with existing landscapes.
• Supervise timekeeping, employee performance, training, and development.
• Address employee concerns in coordination with Human Resources.
• Perform other duties as assigned, particularly those supporting continuous improvement of park appearance and guest experience.

Qualifications

Minimum:

• Bachelor's degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, landscape management, turf management, or a related field
• Strong aesthetic judgment and a demonstrated ability to maintain high visual standards across large, public-facing properties
• Minimum of 5 years' experience managing commercial or institutional landscape construction and maintenance
• Proven ability to lead landscape teams with an emphasis on quality, presentation, and accountability
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Customer service mindset with an understanding of how landscape quality affects guest perception
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct the work of others
• Valid Michigan chauffeur's license

Preferred:

• Professional certifications or specialized training in landscape or horticulture disciplines
• Certified Pesticide Applicator for the State of Michigan
• Background formulating and formulizing campus-wide landscape maintenance plans and programs

Working Conditions

Work is performed indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, with exposure to potentially hazardous environments. The role requires flexibility, including nights, weekends, on-call availability, and the ability to respond to urgent situations. Physical demands include lifting up to 50 pounds and extended periods of standing, walking, or sitting. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

Physical Requirements

Ability to perform essential functions including reading standard and digital text, providing clear verbal instructions, supervising staff in varied environments, accessing restricted areas, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.

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