Director of Operations - Commercial Landscaping & Tree Service

We are seeking an experienced Director of Operations to lead all field operations, production performance, fleet & safety, and shop coordination for a growing commercial landscaping and tree service organization. This role oversees Landscape, Grounds Maintenance, and Snow Operations and ensures all work is delivered safely, efficiently, and profitably.

About the Role

The Director of Operations owns field productivity, job costing, labor management, operational efficiency, and execution of all revenue‑producing work. This position is ideal for a leader with strong commercial landscaping experience and a proven track record managing multi‑department operations in a fast‑paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead field operations across Landscaping, Grounds Maintenance, and Snow Operations.
• Oversee snow operations including contracts, site planning, route optimization, staffing, event execution, and equipment readiness.
• Ensure work is completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards.
• Monitor daily productivity and adjust operational strategy as needed.
• Own labor productivity, job cost performance, and departmental efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to increase revenue and reduce operational waste.
• Lead and develop Production Managers and Fleet & Safety leadership.
• Oversee preventative maintenance programs and equipment readiness.
• Maintain documentation in Azuga and related systems.
• Enforce safety programs and regulatory compliance.
• Support escalated client concerns and conduct site visits.
• Partner with internal operations leadership on financial alignment and forecasting.
• Provide executive‑level reporting to the CEO.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Valid Ohio Driver's License; must be insurable.
• 5 years of landscape industry experience.
• Proven leadership overseeing multiple departments.
• Strong understanding of job costing, production rates, labor management, and operational budgeting.
• Experience leading operations for a commercial landscape company in the $10-$30M revenue range.

Physical & Work Environment

• Ability to walk job sites in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to operate equipment when necessary.
• Mix of field oversight and office‑based planning.
• Flexibility during peak seasons and snow events.

Compensation & Bonus Structure

• Base Salary:

$130,000 - $150,000

• Target Bonus:

  15% - 25%, based on:- Company profit

  • Gross margin & job costing performance
  • Labor productivity & schedule efficiency
  • Safety, equipment utilization, and employee retention
  • Strategic initiatives (process improvements, implementation goals, etc.)
  • Snow revenue performance vs. goal

• Company Vehicle Provided

Benefits

Available at 90 days:

• Health & Dental Insurance (50% employer contribution)
• 2 Weeks Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays (plus additional paid days when the office closes)

Available at 1 year:

• Simple IRA with 3% employer match

Performance Expectations

• Meet or exceed labor productivity goals.
• Maintain job cost performance within budget.
• Eliminate return visits due to workmanship.
• Maintain an accident‑free workplace.
• Achieve revenue and margin targets.