Senior Gardener / Crew Lead (Onsite)
(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities
Start Date: April 2026 Compensation: $45-$50 per hour
Matthew Placek Inc. — New York, NY
(Manhattan & Brooklyn High-End Residential Landscapes)
Matthew Placek Inc. is growing, and we are seeking a Senior Gardener / Crew Lead to join our team. We are a boutique landscape design, installation, and maintenance company specializing in high-end residential rooftops, terraces, and townhouse gardens throughout New York City. Our work is detail-driven, fast-paced, and held to a high standard of horticultural quality and professionalism.
This is a hands-on, onsite role responsible for maintaining gardens to a high standard, leading small crews, and independently managing select properties. The position requires strong horticultural knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to execute work efficiently and consistently.
Responsibilities/Duties
- Lead and direct small garden crews for maintenance, seasonal plantings, and installations
- Independently maintain assigned properties to company standards
- Execute garden work with strong horticultural care and attention to detail
- Train and guide crew members on proper planting, pruning, and general care techniques
- Serve as a point of communication between the field and office as needed
- Oversee irrigation systems, lighting, and overall plant health
- Identify plant issues (pests, disease, deficiencies) and implement appropriate treatments
- Source and select plant material in alignment with established design intent
- Coordinate pickup and delivery of plants and materials as required
- Complete daily reports, including site updates and crew hours
- Maintain organization and compliance with company systems (timesheets, work orders, Slack)
Qualifications/Requirements
- Minimum 2+ years of hands-on NYC gardening experience (rooftops, terraces, containers, townhouse gardens)
- Strong plant identification and care knowledge
- Experience leading small crews and working independently
- Ability to take direction, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively onsite
- Professional communication skills, both written and verbal
- Experience working in client-facing environments
- Familiarity with irrigation systems and landscape lighting
- Knowledge of plant pest and disease identification and treatment
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and lift up to 50 lbs
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
- Smartphone required
Preferred (Not Required)
- Degree in horticulture, landscape design, or related field
- Access to a vehicle
- Familiarity with AutoCAD and/or SketchUp
Additional Information
Compensation & Schedule
- $45-$50/hour (1099 contractor or W2) or based on experience
- Part-time, seasonal (March through December)
- Approximately 30–40 hours per week, depending on workload
- Weekly payment
- Some weather-related schedule variability
Who This Role Is For
- Detail-oriented and horticulturally strong
- Reliable, consistent, and organized in daily work
- Comfortable leading a small team while remaining hands-on
- Able to work independently without oversight when needed
- Professional and respectful in communication with clients and team members
- Consistent in attendance and punctuality, with the ability to manage a steady weekly schedule
Growth Opportunity
This role has the potential to grow into a full-time position as the company continues to expand.
To Apply
Please submit your resume along with a cover letter outlining your relevant horticultural experience.
Resumes submitted without a cover letter will not be considered
Contact Information
Matthew Placek Inc.
Contact Name: Operations Manager
Email: Hortulis@matthewplacek.com
Phone: 9175170337