Lawn Care Operations Manager

Job DescriptionJob Description

Job Title: Manager of Lawn Care Operations
Company: BF&S Lawn Service, a division of Bunkers Feed & Supply, 413 Garfield St., Granville, IA 51022
Location: Northwest Iowa (Serving 10 counties, 30 communities)
Reports To: Board of Directors, Bunkers Feed & Supply
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview:

BF&S Lawn Service, a family owned and operated business since 1980, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Operations Manager to oversee all facets of its lawn care business. This individual will be responsible for managing day-to-day operations, developing and executing lawn care programs, supervising and training staff, coordinating logistics, and driving company growth.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone with strong organizational, horticulture, agronomic, and managerial skills who is passionate about lawn care and business development.

Key Responsibilities:

Business Operations & Program Management

• Develop and maintain annual lawn care programs including fertility, weed, and insect control applications.
• Plan and schedule five annual lawn applications and fall aeration services.
• Plan and coordinate tree injections for Emerald Ash Borer control and prevention.
• Stay current with industry best practices and regulatory guidelines for fertilizer and chemical use.
• Purchase and manage inventory of fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides.
• Oversee chemical mixing and preparation of materials for application crews.

Team Management & Training

• Hire, train, and supervise a team of 6+ lawn technicians.
• Provide ongoing training on safety, equipment usage, chemical handling, and customer service.
• Motivate and evaluate staff performance; implement continuous improvement practices.

Scheduling & Logistics

• Coordinate daily and seasonal work schedules for lawn technicians
• Work closely with office personnel to ensure timely of route sheets and invoices.
• Monitor technician productivity, quality of service, and customer satisfaction.

Sales & Customer Relations

• Develop and implement strategies to grow annual sales and expand market share.
• Identify and pursue new customer acquisition opportunities.
• Resolve escalated customer service issues promptly and professionally.
• Promote a high level of customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Financial & Administrative Duties

• Work within budget for chemical/fertilizer purchases, labor, and equipment.
• Monitor operational costs and identify areas for efficiency improvements.
• Prepare reports and updates for the Board of Directors regarding performance, growth, and challenges.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding lawn care applications.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in horticulture, lawn care maintenance, or the agricultural industry, preferably in a management or supervisory role.
• Strong understanding of turfgrass management, fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides.
• Valid Iowa commercial pesticide applicator’s license for category 3OT or ability to obtain one.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and solve problems proactively.
• Proficient with scheduling, routing, and basic business software (Excel, Word, or similar).
• Valid driver’s license with a clean record; CDL is a plus.

Work Environment:

• Combination of office work and field work in various weather conditions.
• Requires physical activity including lifting, walking, and standing for extended periods.
• Travel within the 10-county service area as needed.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Performance-based bonuses and sales growth incentives
• Company vehicle or mileage reimbursement
• Health and retirement benefits
• Ongoing training and professional development

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining relevant experience to Jeff Bunkers at jeffb@bunkersfs.com or send to BFS, 413 Garfield St, PO Box 137, Granville, IA 51022