Career roadmap
How to Become a Landscaping Supervisor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a landscaping supervisor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a landscaping supervisor: (1) work on a crew, (2) become a crew leader, (3) learn estimating and plants, (4) earn certifications, (5) advance. Most people need about Under 5 years of experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a landscaping supervisor
Work on a crew
Learn the trade.
Become a crew leader
Lead small teams.
Learn estimating and plants
Build knowledge.
Earn certifications
Pesticide or NALP.
Advance
Supervise or manage accounts.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and a few years of landscaping experience are typical. Horticulture courses help.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Under 5 years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- NALP Landscape Industry Certified Manager: Management credential.
- Pesticide applicator license: Often required.
- Irrigation Association certification: Irrigation skills.
- OSHA 10: Safety training.
Skills to build now
Start with crew scheduling, horticulture knowledge, and estimating, and practice leadership and communication. Learning the landscaping supervisor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Landscaper: Learn the work.
- Crew Leader: Lead crews.
- Landscaping Supervisor: Manage multiple crews.
- Branch or Operations Manager: Run a branch.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Landscaping Supervisor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do supervisors need a degree?
No, experience is the main path.
How long does it take to become a landscaping supervisor?
Most people need about Under 5 years of experience of training. A high school diploma and a few years of landscaping experience are typical. Horticulture courses help.
Do you need a degree to be a landscaping supervisor?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for landscaping supervisors?
Common credentials include NALP Landscape Industry Certified Manager, Pesticide applicator license, Irrigation Association certification, and OSHA 10. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 37-1012 (First-line supervisors of landscaping, lawn service, and groundskeeping workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for First-line supervisors of landscaping, lawn service, and groundskeeping workers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.