Landscape Architect & Certified Arborist

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Arboriculture, AutoCAD, Botany, Brand Marketing (Branding), Budgeting, CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), Communication Skills, Construction Design, Construction Management, Construction Safety, Develop Methodologies, Environmental Compliance, Establish Priorities, Gardening, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Horticulture, ISA Standards, Leadership, Maintain Compliance, Mentoring, On Call, Operations Management, Operations Planning, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Project Schedule, Project Tracking, Project/Program Management, Purchasing/Procurement, Regulatory Compliance, Regulatory Requirements, Resource Management, Risk Analysis, Safety Standards, Science Software, Stewardship, Sustainability, Team Lead/Manager, Technical Leadership, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), University/School Policies, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Gainesville, FL
POSTED
Today
The position described resides within Facilities Services at the University of Florida and is dedicated to the oversight and advancement of the in-house Landscape Services program. The Landscape Architect & Certified Arborist is responsible for shaping, maintaining, and enhancing the aesthetic, functional, and ecological integrity of the campus landscape through integrated design, arboricultural management, and oversight of internal landscape enhancement teams. This position provides leadership for in-house crews responsible for landscape enhancements and hardscape improvements. The incumbent ensures that all work performed aligns with university standards for safety, sustainability, campus identity, and long-term maintainability. This role combines professional design expertise with operational execution, focusing on delivering high-quality landscape enhancements through internal resources while maintaining regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship.
Classification Title:

Physical Plant, Coordinator

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Master's degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience.

Job Description:

Oversight of In-House Landscape Operations and Enhancements - Responsible for planning, design, and execution of landscape enhancement initiatives utilizing in-house landscape crews. Develops and implements planting plans, seasonal bed rotations, and campus beautification projects that align with university standards and operational efficiency. Oversees project scheduling, budgeting, and field execution to ensure quality outcomes and adherence to design intent. Provides technical guidance to internal teams performing installation of plant materials, irrigation improvements, and minor hardscape work. Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and university policies. Promotes sustainable practices including native plant use, water conservation, and reduced maintenance strategies.

Arboricultural Program Management – Leads the comprehensive management of the university’s tree canopy. Conducts tree inventories, condition assessments, and risk evaluations. Establishes standards and protocols for tree planting, preservation, pruning, and removal. Provides co-oversight of the internal tree crew to ensure safe and effective operations. Administers the UF Tree Mitigation Fund and ensures compliance with applicable regulations and campus policies related to tree management.

Stakeholder Coordination and Campus Engagement - Serves as a primary liaison between Facilities Services and campus stakeholders including university leadership, faculty, staff, students, and external partners. Collaborates on project prioritization, gathers input on landscape improvements, and ensures alignment with campus-wide initiatives and branding standards. Communicates project scope, timelines, and impacts effectively.

Team Leadership and Resource Management - Provides supervision, mentorship, and development of in-house landscape, arboricultural, and enhancement crews. Establishes performance expectations and ensures ongoing training in horticulture, arboriculture, safety practices, and construction techniques. Develops and manages operational and project budgets. Guides procurement decisions for plant materials, equipment, and supplies to ensure cost-effective and efficient operations.

Certified Landscape Architect designation (state license). State-level Certified Arborist credential (e.g., ISA, USDA).  

NORMAL WORK SCHEDULE:

- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

- Occasional overtime, on-call responsibilities, or adjusted hours required based on operational needs, weather events, or project demands

Expected Salary:

Salary to commensurate with experience

Required Qualifications:

Master's degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience.

Preferred:

Education:

• Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture or related discipline.

Experience:

• 7–10 years of progressive landscape design, construction management, and arboricultural experience in a campus or institutional setting.

• Working knowledge of native species in north central Florida.

•Experience managing large-scale university landscapes or large-scale landscapes of similar scope

Certifications:

• Certified Arborist Knowledge

Skills and Abilities:

• Proven team-leadership record, especially supervising hard-scape contractors and planting crews.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to translate technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.

• Working knowledge of native species in north central Florida.

• CAD (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit), GIS, and plant science software proficiency.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Position has been reposted, previous applicants still under consideration.

Health Assessment Required:No

 

About the Company

U

University of Florida