Landscape Manager

The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) is a nonprofit organization operating the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. Together, our team makes a significant impact, and every role is essential to move our mission forward. Employees are exposed to an atmosphere like no other. Our unmatched scenery will brighten your day as you make a difference for people, animals and the natural world. Are you passionate about customer service and igniting positive change? Join our guest relations team! Applicants will be contacted by a hiring manager with details about the available positions and group interview dates. Position: Landscape Manager Location: Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak, MI Job Id: 732 # of Openings: 1 General Description Reporting directly to the Facilities Superintendent, the Landscape Manager is responsible for leading, shaping, and continuously enhancing the visual character, horticultural quality, and overall aesthetic experience of the property. This role oversees general landscape and maintenance operations, special improvement projects requiring specialized expertise or equipment, and equipment and vehicle maintenance activities. The Landscape Manager plays a critical role in creating an inviting, high-quality, and mission-aligned environment that reflects the standards and values of the Detroit Zoological Society. Through thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and proactive stewardship, the position ensures that all outdoor spaces are safe, attractive, well-maintained, and emotionally engaging for guests, staff, and the community. The Landscape Manager will actively support and advance DZS principles by reinforcing Customer Service Standards and fully understanding and applying the organization’s scope of service, animal care priorities, community relations, and park appearance expectations. The role demands professionalism, integrity, and strong visual judgment, with an emphasis on how landscape presentation influences guest perception, comfort, and overall experience. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be modified to meet evolving organizational needs. Principal Duties and Responsibilities Plan, prioritize, and manage landscape and maintenance activities using the work order system, ensuring work aligns with established appearance standards and seasonal presentation goals. Inspect completed work with a focus on quality, consistency, craftsmanship, and visual impact, identifying opportunities for refinement or enhancement. Assign and oversee contractor and vendor work, ensuring outcomes meet design intent, aesthetic expectations, and DZS standards. Provide on-site leadership across the property to ensure landscapes are well-composed, healthy, and guest-ready at all times. Proactively identify improvements to planting design, turf quality, hardscape integration, and site detailing that elevate the look and feel of the grounds. Research emerging landscape practices, materials, and equipment that supports sustainability, durability, and enhanced appearance, and recommend adoption where appropriate. Oversee and support training related to new equipment, processes, or landscape standards. Prepare cost analyses and recommendations that balance budget responsibility with long-term aesthetic value. Year‑round responsibilities dictated by season and weather which include snow/ice management. Collaborate with internal departments to coordinate landscape work that supports programming, animal care, and guest flow. Maintain compliance with all safety, regulatory, and DZS policies while ensuring safety measures are seamlessly integrated into the guest experience. Order and approve materials with consideration for visual quality, longevity, and compatibility with existing landscapes. Supervise timekeeping, employee performance, training, and development. Address employee concerns in coordination with Human Resources. Perform other duties as assigned, particularly those supporting continuous improvement of park appearance and guest experience. Qualifications Minimum Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, landscape management, turf management, or a related field Strong aesthetic judgment and a demonstrated ability to maintain high visual standards across large, public-facing properties Minimum of 5 years’ experience managing commercial or institutional landscape construction and maintenance Proven ability to lead landscape teams with an emphasis on quality, presentation, and accountability Strong project management and organizational skills Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills Customer service mindset with an understanding of how landscape quality affects guest perception Ability to plan, organize, and direct the work of others Preferred Professional certifications or specialized training in landscape or horticulture disciplines Certified Pesticide Applicator for the State of Michigan Background formulating and implementing campus-wide landscape maintenance plans and programs Working Conditions Work is performed indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, with exposure to potentially hazardous environments. The role requires flexibility, including nights, weekends, on‑call availability, and the ability to respond to urgent situations. Physical demands include lifting up to 50 pounds and extended periods of standing, walking, or sitting. Reasonable accommodations may be made. Physical Requirements Ability to perform essential functions including reading standard and digital text, providing clear verbal instructions, supervising staff in varied environments, accessing restricted areas, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all. Perks and Benefits Working at the DZS has its perks! Not only will you join a passionate team that takes pride in conservation, sustainability, and animal well‑being, but you will also enjoy a competitive and robust benefits package. Full‑Time 401(k) match plan Medical, prescription, vision and dental insurance* Short and long term disability plan Life insurance programs Flexible spending Employee assistance program Paid time off accrual Referral and retention bonuses Detroit Zoo membership and guest tickets In‑park merchandise and food discounts Event and program discounts *eligible after qualifying period Part‑Time 401(k) match plan* Medical, prescription, vision and dental insurance* Short and long term disability plan Life insurance Employee assistance program Paid time off accrual Referral and retention bonuses Detroit Zoo membership and guest tickets In‑park merchandise and food discounts Event and program discounts *eligible after qualifying preliminary period Seasonal Part‑Time 401(k) match plan* Medical, prescription, vision and dental insurance* Employee assistance program Referral and retention bonuses Detroit Zoo membership and guest tickets In‑park merchandise and food discounts Event and program discounts *eligible after qualifying preliminary period The DZS is an equal‑opportunity employer, and we are committed to diversity in our workforce. We maintain a drug‑free workplace and perform pre‑employment substance abuse screening. #J-18808-Ljbffr