Job Description
Pulled from the full job description
On-site parking
Full job description
Job description:
Location: 70 Dawson Rd, Guelph ON
Position Type: Full-Time, Year-Round Leadership
Reports to: Owner of company
Compensation: 50-80k/year
About Us
We are a Guelph-based landscape and seasonal service provider that believes our people are our greatest asset. From the summer rush to the 2:00 AM winter snow alerts, we operate as a tight-knit team where reliability, trust, and a good attitude are the foundation of everything we do.
We’ve built a company where hard work is noticed, leadership is accessible, and no one is expected to figure things out alone. We are looking for a Senior Operations Manager who isn’t just a boss, but a mentor and strategic partner — someone who wants to lead a strong team with the backing of ownership and internal support.
The Opportunity: Total Operational Ownership
This role is designed for an experienced operations leader who wants ownership-level influence without being thrown in the deep end.
You will work closely with the Owner during a structured transition period, learning our systems, standards, and “company DNA.” Decision-making authority will grow over time as trust and familiarity build — not overnight. You’ll also be supported day-to-day by a Junior Operations Manager, who assists with scheduling, coordination, and administrative execution. This allows you to focus on strategy, team development, and operational performance — not trying to do everything yourself.
Our goal is simple: give you the tools, people, and backing you need to succeed.
Your Leadership Support Team:
The Owner: Provides structured onboarding and mentorship to align on company "DNA" and financial goals.
Junior Operations Manager: Reports directly to you and handles the heavy lifting of daily task delegation, equipment checks, and field check-ins.
Office Administration: Manages billing, client intake, and documentation so you can stay focused on field performance.
The Mission: Think Like an Owner
As the Senior Operations Manager, you are the brain of the field operation. Your success isn't just about the grass being cut; it’s about ensuring the company is profitable, safe, and professional. You will be the bridge between the Owner’s vision and the crew’s execution.
How We Measure Success
Jobs consistently meet or exceed estimated margins
Reduced call-backs, rework, and client escalations
Crews are properly staffed, trained, and retained
Snow events are executed safely, profitably, and on time
Spring to Fall operations run efficiently and predictably
Clear, accurate reporting on labor, costs, and equipment use
Key Responsibilities:
1. Leadership, Mentorship & Team Development
Supported Onboarding: Work side-by-side with the Owner during the transition period to align on expectations, financial goals, and company standards.
Delegation & Development: Lead and mentor the Junior Operations Manager, delegating daily coordination and administrative tasks so you can focus on higher-level decision-making.
Team Oversight: Oversee 5+ summer crews and winter operations, with responsibility for hiring, training, performance management, and conflict resolution — supported by existing systems and leadership.
Culture Stewardship: Foster accountability, professionalism, and pride in workmanship across the team.
2. Financial & Strategic Decision-Making (With Visibility & Input):
Margin Management: Monitor job costing (estimated vs. actual) and adjust labor, equipment, or scheduling to protect profitability.
Collaborative Estimating: Work with the Owner to refine pricing strategies and ensure the company pursues work that is sustainable and profitable.
Resource Decisions: Oversee maintenance planning through the Junior Ops Manager and make informed recommendations on repairs, rentals, and replacements within budget.
3. Operational Systems & Logistics:
Process Improvement: Help refine and build SOPs by identifying inefficiencies in routing, yard flow, communication, and scheduling — you won’t be starting from scratch.
Winter Operations Leadership: Lead snow event execution, route optimization, and on-call planning with clear expectations and backup support.
Quality Control: Conduct site audits and work with crew leaders to maintain standards and reduce rework and call-backs.
What You Bring to the Table
Industry Experience: Strong, hands-on background in landscaping and snow operations — you understand both the field and the numbers.
Sound Judgment: Comfortable making decisions independently, while knowing when collaboration and a second opinion add value.
Financial Awareness: You understand that busy doesn’t equal profitable and can manage labor, equipment, and overhead accordingly.
Leadership Mindset: You coach, develop, and support people rather than managing by pressure alone.
Tech Competence: Confident using Google Suite and industry software to track production and communicate effectively.
Qualifications:
Education: Post-secondary education in Landscape Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
Industry Experience: 5+ years in landscaping and snow operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role managing crews, budgets, and schedules.
Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of landscape and snow management practices, equipment, and materials.
Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Soft Skills: Exceptional organizational and problem-solving abilities; ability to remain calm under pressure in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Management Knowledge: Solid understanding of human resources, management policies, and health and safety regulations.
Tech Savvy: Proficient in using computer software and current technology (Google Suite, etc.).
Licensing: Valid G driver’s license with a clean driving record.
Physical Considerations:
Regular lifting of materials and equipment may be required.
Working in varying and unpredictable weather conditions is necessary.
Flexible and varying working hours, including weekend or night work depending on the season (especially during winter snow events).
Why Join Us?
We aren’t just hiring an employee; we are choosing a partner in our growth.
Phased Autonomy: Work with the Owner until you’re ready and comfortable.
Supportive Environment: You have a Junior Ops Manager to help with the heavy lifting of daily tasks.
Growth: As the company grows, so does your opportunity for performance-based rewards.
Pay: $50,000.00-$80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
On-site parking
Work Location: In person
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Senior Operations Manager (Landscaping) position is now open for candidates interested in the Back Office Jobs sector. This role in Guelph offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Back Office Jobs is a plus.
