From Apprentice to Crew Leader: Your Landscape Maintenance Career Starts Here
Location: Onalaska, WI
Industry: Outdoor Maintenance Services, Landscape Maintenance, Mowing, Lawn Care
Company: Phillips Outdoor Services
We are hiring for a Landscape Maintenance Apprentice to join our growing team in Onalaska, WI.
This is an entry-level position where you’ll gain hands-on experience in residential and commercial maintenance services including landscape maintenance, mowing, lawn care, and seasonal cleanups, while learning from experienced crew leaders. Previous maintenance service experience is preferred but not required.
As a first-year apprentice, you’ll also cross-train in all divisions when needed. This role is ideal for those who thrive on variety, are eager to learn new skills, and enjoy supporting their teammates and the business objectives.
After completing your first year gaining experience across all divisions, apprentices may have the opportunity to transition into a more permanent role aligned with their skill set, like landscape maintenance services, while following a long-term growth path within the organization.
This role offers up to $25/hour and up to a $1,000 sign-on bonus, profit sharing, and comprehensive benefits.
Purpose
Support our maintenance division by learning and performing fundamental tasks, developing landscape care skills under crew leader mentorship, and contributing to safe, quality property maintenance services.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute mowing, trimming, edging, fertilizing, pruning, mulching, and seasonal cleanup services
- Complete structured training modules covering maintenance safety, equipment operation, and care techniques
- Operate jobsite tools and machinery safely and proficiently
- Maintain clean and organized jobsites based on company standards
- Shadow experienced maintenance technicians and progressively develop property care skills
- Participate in scheduled training sessions and performance reviews with assigned mentor
- Document learning progress in designated tracking systems
- Communicate effectively with team members, crew leaders, and project managers
Required Qualifications
- Ability to perform physical labor including lifting 50+ lbs, walking extended distances, and standing for extended periods
- Strong safety awareness and commitment to protocols, especially around equipment operation
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Positive attitude and willingness to master landscape maintenance techniques
- Team-oriented with ability to take direction
- Prior landscaping, grounds maintenance, or lawn care experience preferred but not required
Training & Development
- Structured training combining online learning, workshops, and on-the-job experience
- Skill assessments at 30, 60, 90 days, then quarterly
- Assigned mentor providing coaching and growth opportunities
- Clear advancement path toward maintenance crew lead roles
Reporting Structure
Reports to Landscape Maintenance Crew Leader with regular mentor check-ins
Compensation & Benefits
- Base Pay: Up to $25/hour based on experience
- Sign-on Bonus: Up to $1,000
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Up to 4 weeks paid time off (PTO) annually
- Profit sharing program
- Ongoing professional development
- Award-winning company culture
- Strong community reputation
Work Environment
Outdoor jobsites in various weather conditions. PPE required per safety guidelines.
