Lawn Maintenance Workers
Description OES Code: 79038
Landscape and/or maintain grounds of property using hand or power tools or equipment. May work in nursery facility or at customer location. Workers typically perform a variety of tasks, which may include any combination of the following: sod laying, mowing, trimming, planting, watering, fertilizing, digging, raking, and sprinkler installation. Workers may help brick and stone masons.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $6.94
25th Percentile $7.49
50th Percentile $9.05
75th Percentile $12.25

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Many employers provide medical insurance and vacation for full time staff.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 128,600
Projected Employment 2008 169,900
Percentage Growth 1998-2008 32.1%
Separations 1998-2008 44,500

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Many of the jobs for grounds maintenance workers are seasonal, meaning that they are in demand mainly in the spring, summer, and fall when most planting, mowing and trimming, and cleanup is necessary. The work, most of which is performed outdoors in all kinds of weather, can be physically demanding and repetitive, involving much bending, lifting, and shoveling. Workers in landscaping and groundskeeping may be under pressure to get the job completed, especially when preparing for scheduled events such as athletic competitions or burials.

Those who work with pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals, as well as potentially dangerous equipment and tools such as power lawnmowers, chain saws, and power clippers, must exercise safety precautions. Workers who use motorized equipment must take care to protect themselves against hearing damage.

Advancement
Laborers who demonstrate a willingness to work hard and quickly, have good communication skills, and take an interest in the business may advance to crew leader or other supervisory positions. Advancement or entry into positions such as grounds manager or landscape contractor usually requires some formal education beyond high school, and several years of progressively more responsible experience.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
There usually are no minimum educational requirements for entry-level positions in grounds maintenance. In 2000, most workers had a high school education or less, although a diploma is necessary for some jobs. Short-term on-the-job training usually is sufficient to teach new hires how to operate equipment such as mowers, trimmers, leafblowers, and small tractors, and to follow correct safety procedures.

Skills & Other Requirements
Entry-level workers must be able to follow directions and learn proper planting procedures. If driving is an essential part of a job, employers look for applicants with a good driving record and some experience driving a truck. Workers who deal directly with customers must get along well with people. Employers also look for responsible, self-motivated individuals, because grounds maintenance workers often work with little supervision.

Skills & Other Requirements
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook

Related Occupations: Agricultural Workers, Landscape Architects

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)