What Does a Landscaper Do? A Landscaper alters the visible features of a piece of land. This type of work usually requires a degree and a certain amount of experience. The main goal of a landscaper is to make the land look beautiful and inviting. A landscaper also works with plants to add colour and structure. Work environment Creating a great work environment is one of the most important factors in attracting top talent. By providing an attractive workplace, landscape contractors can attract the best talent and reward their current employees. The following are some strategies landscapers can implement to create a positive work environment. Employers can attract top talent and retain current employees by offering a competitive salary and bonus system. Visit Landscaping Bowmanville to learn more. A good work environment includes a strong corporate culture that supports and promotes the company's success. A strong culture signifies a company's commitment to its employees, and a great company will care about employee needs. In addition to providing a great work environment, good companies also create a culture that inspires people. Traditionally, landscapers scraped by without caring about their work environment, but the competitive environment has changed, and landscapers must seek to build competitive advantages. Landscapers often work indoors, but the work environment can be extremely varied. They may work alone or as part of a team and may be exposed to harsh conditions and loud noises. However, these workers must still adhere to safety procedures and meet all workplace regulations. A professional landscaper may also be responsible for advising clients and designing landscapes, which gives them plenty of opportunity for advancement and promotion. A landscaper's work environment is an excellent fit for those who like the outdoors. They can choose to work in rural areas as well as in urban green spaces. Their daily duties include weeding, planting, and installing water features. Landscapers are also expected to be proficient in safely using tools, including chainsaws. Education requirements Most landscaper jobs require at least a high school diploma or GED, but some require some college training. Students interested in landscaping should take math, science, and English classes, as well as botany and chemistry. Continuing education programs offered by trade and vocational schools and state departments of agriculture are also a great way to learn the industry's fundamentals. The minimum educational requirement for a forester is a bachelor's degree in forestry. However, some choose to combine a three-year liberal arts education with two years of professional education in forestry. This option can reduce the time it takes to complete the apprenticeship. Some landscapers also take courses offered by professional associations such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals. These courses help them upgrade their skills and earn a certificate that shows employers that they are skilled professionals. Landscape contractors supervise the installation and maintenance of landscape designs. Most landscape contractors are also general contractors. This occupation does not require formal education and can be obtained through hands-on experience. As of 2010, the median salary for construction managers was $83,860, and job growth is expected to be 17 percent by 2020. If you are interested in a career as a landscape contractor, you can start by obtaining your license in landscape contracting and completing a few landscaping projects. Education requirements for landscapers vary by state. However, students will typically complete courses in landscape design, horticulture, computer drafting, and plant and soil science. They may also complete specialized courses in organic plant management. Job Outlook A landscaper's job involves creating and maintaining outdoor scenes, often for public areas. They can work on their projects or collaborate with a landscape architect to create a specific design. They are also called groundskeepers because they maintain the exterior areas of buildings. Their duties often include mowing grass, trimming bushes, and spreading fertilizer. The demand for landscapers will be strongest in areas with a temperate climate, where landscaping can be done year-round. Generally, entry-level landscapers are hired through landscaping companies. These employers provide on-the-job training and support. In addition, these companies often provide full-time positions once they complete their training. The job outlook for landscapers is very good. Employment is expected to increase by 8% between 2020 and 2030, higher than the average for all occupations. As a result, a landscaper can expect to make up to $63,480 per year. In May 2016, the lowest 10 percent of landscapers earned less than $38,950, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $106,770. There is a strong demand for landscapers, with average annual household spending of over $500. In addition, demand for landscapers is fueled by younger consumers who are increasingly concerned with sustainability and environmental responsibility. Currently, the industry employs over 1.2 million people in the US. However, lacking qualified workers can create a shortage in the field. This situation is especially acute in the Northeast, where many landscaper jobs are unfilled.