Our client is seeking an independent, highly skilled Lead Turf Care Technician to serve as the right hand to their growing turf division. In this role, you will independently manage a comprehensive 6-step fertilization program while acting as the primary mentor and technical resource for a team of newer crew members. The ideal candidate will be proactive, identifying opportunities for operational improvements as the company expands its residential and commercial service areas.
Our client is a premier, full-service landscape management company based in Hebron, Indiana, serving a mix of residential and commercial properties throughout Northwest Indiana. With over 30 years in business, they have grown to become the largest landscape organization in the region, driven by a highly engaging and "wild fun" team culture that values proactive performance. The company is deeply committed to employee development and hosts year-round team appreciation events, including summer cookouts and an extravagant holiday casino night.
Compensation & Benefits
- $20.00 - $30.00 per hour, commensurate with experience and licensing.
- Guaranteed year-round employment, offering up to 30 to 32 hours of indoor shop work during winter weeks without snow.
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
- Access to a unique medical partnership program offering heavily discounted routine care for just $7 per paycheck (alternative option to enrolling in insurance benefits).
- 401(k) retirement plan featuring an outstanding 6% company match after one year of employment.
- Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) packages designed to accommodate your starting needs.
- Performance incentives, including cash bonuses for working extra Saturdays during the busy spring season.
- Paid training and professional development assistance, including opportunities to complete the Indiana Accredited Horticultural program.
Responsibilities
- Manage an independent route throughout Lake and Porter Counties to safely apply fertilizer, pest control, and targeted turf treatments using industry-standard machinery and backpack sprayers.
- Guide, train, and mentor newer technicians on best practices for equipment usage, system calibration, and effective application techniques.
- Troubleshoot, diagnose, treat, and continually monitor client lawns for weeds, damaging turf insects, and common disease issues.
- Read, calculate, and properly mix chemical applications according to exact rates and strict label instructions.
- Communicate professionally with both clients and office staff to provide service updates, and thoroughly complete all documentation for billing and records.
- Actively identify material needs or equipment issues in the field, ensuring proactive maintenance of nozzles, hoses, and machines.
- Transition to year-round duties during the winter season, performing snow removal or indoor shop tasks, including equipment maintenance and inventory management.
Requirements
- A valid Indiana Registered Technician (RT) License is required, with a strong preference for candidates holding 3B and 7A certifications.
- At least 5 years of proven, hands-on experience in fertilization, turf treatment, and general lawn care.
- A valid driver’s license and the physical capability to independently lift 50 lbs multiple times a day.
- A proactive, self-starting mindset with the ability to work independently and look beyond minimum job requirements to facilitate company growth.
- Willingness to commute to the Hebron, IN facility to comfortably meet a 6:30 AM daily start time.
- Availability to work overtime (potentially 10-hour days) and Saturdays as needed during peak seasonal pushes.
- (Bonus) Prior tree and shrub care experience or the ability to speak Spanish to help support a diverse workforce.
