Project and Operations Manager

Project and Operations Manager Company: Custom Lawn Creations, Inc. Location: Naples, FL Job Type: Full-Time Reports To: Ownership / General Manager Company Overview Custom Lawn Creations (CLC) is a 38-year luxury landscape design, build, and maintenance company serving Naples' affluent residential market. We deliver high-end landscape design, installation, and ongoing maintenance for discerning homeowners who expect excellence in both craftsmanship and service. As we grow, we're looking for an experienced Project and Operations Manager to help lead day-to-day field operations and ensure every project and maintenance relationship reflects the quality our clients expect. Position Summary The Project and Operations Manager oversees the coordination of design/build projects and ongoing maintenance operations from planning through completion. This role bridges field crews, subcontractors, and clients — ensuring projects are delivered on time and on budget, maintenance routes run efficiently, and plant material is selected, sourced, and cared for correctly for South Florida's tropical growing conditions. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who understands both the horticultural and operational sides of the landscape business. Key Responsibilities Project Management Plan, schedule, and oversee landscape design/build projects from proposal through installation and client walkthrough Coordinate crews, subcontractors, and material deliveries to keep projects on schedule and within budget Serve as the primary on-site point of contact for clients during active projects, ensuring clear communication and a high-touch client experience Review project estimates against actual costs and flag variances early Operations Management Oversee daily maintenance operations, including crew scheduling, route efficiency, and quality control across the client portfolio Manage inventory of plant material, hardgoods, and equipment; coordinate procurement and vendor relationships Monitor and manage subcontractor performance (irrigation, lighting, tree work, and specialty trades) to ensure quality and cost control Implement and maintain operational systems and standard procedures across field teams Support recruiting, training, and supervision of crew leads and field staff Plant Health & Horticultural Oversight Apply strong working knowledge of tropical and subtropical plant material — species selection, planting practices, seasonal care, pest and disease management appropriate to Southwest Florida's climate Ensure installations and maintenance practices support long-term plant health, not just immediate visual results Advise on plant substitutions and design adjustments based on site conditions, sun exposure, and seasonal considerations Safety & Compliance Ensure crews follow safety protocols for equipment operation, chemical application, and general field safety Maintain compliance with applicable licensing, pesticide/irrigation regulations, and company insurance requirements Required Qualifications Strong working knowledge of tropical and subtropical plant material — species identification, care requirements, and seasonal patterns specific to South Florida Prior experience with a nursery, landscaping company, or landscape design/build firm (required) Demonstrated project management experience — able to run multiple concurrent projects and maintenance routes Strong communications and customer service skills Strong organizational, scheduling, and budget-tracking skills Valid driver's license and reliable transportation Ability to work outdoors in South Florida conditions and lift/move materials as needed Preferred Qualifications Multi-lingual candidates strongly preferred (Spanish proficiency is a significant plus, given crew composition and client base) Horticulture, landscape architecture, or turf/ornamental science degree or certification Certified Landscape Technician or similar industry certification Experience with landscape management/scheduling software Familiarity with luxury residential or high-end commercial landscape service standards What We Offer Competitive salary commensurate with experience Opportunity to help build operational systems for a growing, well-established company A team environment that values craftsmanship, client relationships, and long-term health over quick turnarounds We take pride in our work, which is made possible by the members of our team. We firmly believe that if you take care of your team, it will show in the work. If this sounds like a group you would like to be a part of and have the qualifications outlined. Custom Lawn Creations is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds and language abilities to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr