Director of Operations
Southern Land Company is seeking a Director of Horticulture Operations who will lead all horticultural and landscape management activities at Westerly, a master planned community in Erie, Colorado.
This is a high-visibility, hands-on leadership role focused on delivering exceptional outdoor environments while developing, organizing, and inspiring a talented grounds team. The Director will establish and execute horticulture protocols, oversee property-wide installations and maintenance, and help shape the ongoing growth of an 800-acre community.
POSITION AND LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS:
- 800-acre master planned community in development and installation phase
- Dedicated full-time crew of 15, with opportunity to recruit and shape the team
- Community landscape installations still ongoing, including future phases of development
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Typical work schedule:
- In Season: Monday–Friday, 6:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; weekends as needed
- Out of Season: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; weekends as needed (snow management required)
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Future projects:
- Full landscape installation of the entire 800-acre community
- Reports directly to the Vice President of Horticulture
SUCCESS TRAITS OF INDIVIDUAL:
- Self-sufficient and results-driven leader
- High energy and strong work ethic
- Proven ability to recruit, train, and retain talented staff
- Direct, clear communicator
- Expert in grounds management, landscape maintenance, and installations
- Holds (or can obtain) a Colorado state pesticide license
INITIAL PRIORITIES OF POSITION:
- Organize existing crew into optimal roles and fill open positions with the right talent
- Assess all current property landscaping and adjust management practices to improve quality and sustainability
- Recommend alternative plant species for improved performance and aesthetics
- Review master plans for future development phases; assist in revising budgets, labor, equipment, and material needs
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND APTITUDE:
- Develop horticulture protocols, priorities, and management strategies aligned with budget goals and best practices
- Oversee planting, cultivation, and care of turf, shrubs, flowers, and trees, ensuring installations meet the community’s standards of excellence
- Perform quality control inspections and resolve issues related to environmental conditions, pests, or damage
- Direct seasonal display designs (annuals, bulbs, holiday greens)
- Research and apply innovative horticultural trends, products, and equipment
- Lead environmentally sustainable and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices
- Train and mentor staff in plant care, equipment use, pest/disease identification, and design principles
- Ensure all resources vehicles, tools, and equipment are safe, effective, and well-maintained
- Strong Microsoft Office skills; excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, Botany, Business Management, or related field (preferred)
- 5–10 years of horticulture management experience
- Colorado state pesticide license (or ability to obtain)
- Bilingual English/Spanish a plus
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
- Salary range: $125,000–$150,000 annually
- Bonus eligibility
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid time off/vacation
- Short- and long-term disability
- Continued education opportunities
- Company car and cell phone allowance
- Uniforms
ABOUT US:
Westerly is a master planned community developed by Southern Land Company, known for delivering exceptional, thoughtfully designed living environments. With an emphasis on quality, detail, and community engagement, Westerly blends beautiful outdoor spaces with outstanding horticultural care to create a unique and inviting place to live.
To learn more about Westerly, please visit: https://westerlycolorado.com/
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, Botany, Business Management, or related field (preferred)
- Colorado state pesticide license (or ability to obtain)
Experience Requirements
- 5–10 years of horticulture management experience
Job Benefits
- Bonus eligibility
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid time off/vacation
- Short- and long-term disability
- Continued education opportunities
- Company car and cell phone allowance
- Uniforms
Date Job is Available
Salary
$125,000 to $150,000 per year
Overtime: No
Job Application Instructions
Interested applicants should apply using the application URL
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