Planting Foreman

Vande Hey Company is seeking a Planting Foreman in Appleton, WI. The role involves leading planting and softscape projects, managing plant health, and training crew members. Candidates should have 3+ years of experience in landscape management and a strong knowledge of horticulture. The position requires physical work outdoors and effective communication with clients. A valid driver’s license is necessary, with a CDL being a plus.
EOE Statement

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Join our Growing Team: Project Manager / Softscape Foreman

Lead with passion, creativity, and horticultural expertise as you bring life to vibrant landscapes in residential, commercial, and municipal environments. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fun, fast-paced, and innovative environment, and who has a deep appreciation for plants and the natural landscape.

Grow, Lead, and Exceed: Commitment
• Commit to creating outdoor spaces of lasting beauty through expert plant selection, soil health, and landscape design!
• Commit to providing five-star quality through plant-focused, award-winning landscapes!
• Commit to continuous learning and personal growth in horticulture and landscape management!
• Commit to “Being there” for your teammates, clients, and community!

Roles and Responsibilities

Including but not limited to:
• Serve as a working supervisor overseeing and executing planting and softscape-focused design/build projects.
• Plan, coordinate, and manage planting installations, seasonal color displays, perennial garden design, native planting, tree and shrub installation, and turf establishment.
• Manage plant health care practices and ensure proper irrigation, soil preparation, and mulching techniques are applied.
• Collaborate with the Design-Build Manager and Project Supervisor to execute softscape-heavy projects on time and to the highest horticultural standards.
• Train and mentor crew members on plant identification, care techniques, proper planting procedures, and overall landscape maintenance best practices.
• Operate various horticultural tools and equipment safely and efficiently.
• Read and interpret planting plans, landscape designs, and specifications to ensure planting layouts and plant choices match intended aesthetic and functional goals.
• Monitor and maintain landscape health by identifying plant diseases, pest problems, and other horticultural concerns.
• Communicate regularly with clients to ensure expectations are met and offer guidance on ongoing plant care and maintenance.
• Work closely with fellow team members to ensure each softscape project meets or exceeds quality standards.

Qualifications
• 3+ years of experience in landscape construction, garden installation, or plant-focused landscape management.
• Strong working knowledge of horticulture, plant ID, soil science, and landscape design principles.
• Experience leading crews and managing planting projects of varying scale and complexity.

Education
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Degree or coursework in horticulture, landscape design, or related field, a strong plus.

License
• Valid driver’s license required.
• CDL license or willingness to obtain one is a plus.

Physical Requirements, Skills and Characteristics
• Comfortable with physical work outdoors in all weather conditions, including heavy lifting, bending, kneeling, and working with plant material.
• Ability to operate tools and horticultural equipment safely and efficiently.
• Familiarity with mobile devices for job communication and reporting.
• Passion for plants and outdoor environments.
• Strong attention to detail and a proactive attitude.
• Effective communication skills with a customer-first mindset.

Benefits

Vande Hey’s offers a supportive team atmosphere, a positive work culture, and a competitive compensation and benefits package for eligible employees:
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• 401(K) Plan
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Continuing Education Opportunities
• Company Discounts

Compensation

Based on Experience: Starting at $20 per hour

Let me know if you'd like a version tailored more toward residential gardens, native plantings, or a more sustainability-focused role.