Lead Turf Care Technician

Our client is seeking an independent, highly skilled Lead Turf Care Technician to serve as the right hand to their growing turf division. In this role, you will independently manage a comprehensive 6-step fertilization program while acting as the primary mentor and technical resource for a team of newer crew members. The ideal candidate will be proactive, identifying opportunities for operational improvements as the company expands its residential and commercial service areas. Our client is a premier, full-service landscape management company based in Hebron, Indiana, serving a mix of residential and commercial properties throughout Northwest Indiana. With over 30 years in business, they have grown to become the largest landscape organization in the region, driven by a highly engaging and "wild fun" team culture that values proactive performance. The company is deeply committed to employee development and hosts year-round team appreciation events, including summer cookouts and an extravagant holiday casino night. Compensation & Benefits $20.00 - $30.00 per hour, commensurate with experience and licensing. Guaranteed year-round employment, offering up to 30 to 32 hours of indoor shop work during winter weeks without snow. Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance. Access to a unique medical partnership program offering heavily discounted routine care for just $7 per paycheck (alternative option to enrolling in insurance benefits). 401(k) retirement plan featuring an outstanding 6% company match after one year of employment. Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) packages designed to accommodate your starting needs. Performance incentives, including cash bonuses for working extra Saturdays during the busy spring season. Paid training and professional development assistance, including opportunities to complete the Indiana Accredited Horticultural program. Responsibilities Manage an independent route throughout Lake and Porter Counties to safely apply fertilizer, pest control, and targeted turf treatments using industry-standard machinery and backpack sprayers. Guide, train, and mentor newer technicians on best practices for equipment usage, system calibration, and effective application techniques. Troubleshoot, diagnose, treat, and continually monitor client lawns for weeds, damaging turf insects, and common disease issues. Read, calculate, and properly mix chemical applications according to exact rates and strict label instructions. Communicate professionally with both clients and office staff to provide service updates, and thoroughly complete all documentation for billing and records. Actively identify material needs or equipment issues in the field, ensuring proactive maintenance of nozzles, hoses, and machines. Transition to year-round duties during the winter season, performing snow removal or indoor shop tasks, including equipment maintenance and inventory management. Requirements A valid Indiana Registered Technician (RT) License is required, with a strong preference for candidates holding 3B and 7A certifications. At least 5 years of proven, hands-on experience in fertilization, turf treatment, and general lawn care. A valid driver's license and the physical capability to independently lift 50 lbs multiple times a day. A proactive, self-starting mindset with the ability to work independently and look beyond minimum job requirements to facilitate company growth. Willingness to commute to the Hebron, IN facility to comfortably meet a 6:30 AM daily start time. Availability to work overtime (potentially 10-hour days) and Saturdays as needed during peak seasonal pushes. (Bonus) Prior tree and shrub care experience or the ability to speak Spanish to help support a diverse workforce. #LI-MS1