Career

How To Become A Horticultural Services Supervisor In Montana 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming a Horticultural Services Supervisor, including salary, schools, and programs.

Horticultural Services Supervisor in Montana Career Overview

As a Horticultural Services Supervisor, you play a central role in managing and overseeing various horticultural projects and services. Your responsibilities go beyond the day-to-day operations, including:

  • Coordinating the planning, development, and maintenance of gardens and landscapes.
  • Ensuring that plant health, aesthetics, and overall environmental sustainability are prioritized.
  • Leading a team of horticulturists and landscape technicians, providing guidance and support to enhance their skills and productivity.
  • Collaborating with clients to understand their needs and expectations, ensuring that services meet high standards of quality and satisfaction.
  • Developing and implementing horticultural programs that promote biodiversity and environmental conservation.
  • Monitoring and managing budgets, scheduling maintenance, and resource allocation to ensure the effective use of materials and labor.
  • Staying updated on industry trends, advances in horticultural practices, and new plant varieties to improve service offerings.

Your role contributes significantly to the beauty and ecological health of Montana's landscapes, making it fundamental not only for business success but also for community well-being and environmental stewardship.

Best Schools to become a Horticultural Services Supervisor near Montana 2024

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Fort Collins, CO

In-State Tuition:$9,903
Out-of-State Tuition:$29,861
Admission Rate:91%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:33,403

Horticultural Services Supervisor Salary in Montana

Annual Median: $56,520
Hourly Median: $27.17

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Horticultural Services Supervisor in Montana

To pursue a career as a Horticultural Services Supervisor, you will need specific educational qualifications and training. Consider the following degree programs that can enhance your knowledge and skills in the field:

  • Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services

    • This program focuses on the practical application of horticultural principles along with business management aspects, preparing you for supervisory roles in horticultural settings.
  • Horticultural Science

    • A degree in Horticultural Science provides a strong foundation in plant biology, soil science, and pest management, equipping you with the necessary expertise to oversee horticultural operations.
  • Applied Horticulture and Horticulture Operations

    • This program emphasizes hands-on experience and operational aspects of horticulture, training you to manage gardening, landscaping, and production facilities effectively.
  • Ornamental Horticulture

    • Specializing in ornamental horticulture allows you to focus on the cultivation and management of decorative plants, which is essential for supervisors in landscape and garden management.
  • Urban and Community Horticulture

    • This degree offers insights into horticultural practices that benefit urban settings and community gardens, preparing you to lead projects that enhance green spaces and community engagement.

In addition to obtaining a relevant degree, you may also benefit from internships or hands-on training programs that provide practical experience in horticultural management. Such experiences can enhance your understanding of the industry and improve your leadership capabilities in horticultural services.

Best Schools to become a Horticultural Services Supervisor near Montana 2024

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Fort Collins, CO

In-State Tuition:$9,903
Out-of-State Tuition:$29,861
Admission Rate:91%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:33,403
Horticultural Services Supervisor Job Description:
  • Directly supervise and coordinate activities of workers engaged in landscaping or groundskeeping activities.
  • Work may involve reviewing contracts to ascertain service, machine, and workforce requirements; answering inquiries from potential customers regarding methods, material, and price ranges; and preparing estimates according to labor, material, and machine costs.

Horticultural Services Supervisor Required Skills and Competencies in Montana

  • Leadership: You need the ability to motivate and guide a team, making decisions that enhance both performance and morale.

  • Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for conveying information to your team, clients, and stakeholders effectively.

  • Technical Knowledge: A solid understanding of horticulture, including plant biology, pest management, and soil science, is necessary to provide informed guidance.

  • Project Management: You should be adept at planning, executing, and overseeing horticultural projects, ensuring that they are completed on time and within budget.

  • Problem-Solving: Critical thinking skills are required to identify issues and develop effective solutions in a timely manner.

  • Customer Service Orientation: You must prioritize client relationships, addressing their needs and concerns to enhance satisfaction and loyalty.

  • Budgeting and Financial Management: Proficiency in managing budgets and understanding financial reports will enable you to oversee resources effectively.

  • Environmental Awareness: Knowledge of sustainable practices and environmental regulations is important to implement responsible horticultural practices.

  • Safety Management: Familiarity with safety protocols and the ability to enforce them ensures a safe working environment for you and your team.

  • Adaptability: Being flexible and open to new ideas or changes in the horticultural field is vital for staying relevant and effective.

  • Time Management: You will need to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to oversee multiple projects and responsibilities.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision in your work, from plant care to project specifications, is crucial for achieving high-quality results.

Job Duties for Horticultural Services Supervisors

  • Establish and enforce operating procedures and work standards that will ensure adequate performance and personnel safety.

  • Schedule work for crews, depending on work priorities, crew or equipment availability, or weather conditions.

  • Tour grounds, such as parks, botanical gardens, cemeteries, or golf courses, to inspect conditions of plants and soil.

Technologies and Skills Used by Horticultural Services Supervisors

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Outlook

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Resource Management

  • Managing your time and the time of other people
  • Selecting and managing the best workers for a job

Social

  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions
  • Teaching people how to do something

Job Market and Opportunities for Horticultural Services Supervisor in Montana

The job market for Horticultural Services Supervisors in Montana is characterized by increasing demand and growth potential.

  • Demand: As environmental concerns rise and interest in sustainable practices grows, there is a heightened need for experienced professionals who can oversee horticultural services. The demand is particularly strong in sectors such as landscaping, public parks, and agricultural initiatives, where effective management is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and aesthetically pleasing environments.

  • Growth Potential: The horticultural industry in Montana is expected to expand due to various factors, including increasing urban development and population growth. As more communities invest in green spaces and sustainable practices, the need for skilled supervisors who can coordinate and implement horticultural projects will be essential. Additionally, advancements in technology and practices in horticulture may create new roles and opportunities for career advancement within the field.

  • Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Montana exhibit strong activity in horticultural services, making them favorable locations for job seekers. Key hotspots include:

    • Billings: As the largest city in the state, Billings has a growing economy and numerous landscaping companies, parks, and botanical gardens.
    • Missoula: Known for its vibrant community focus on sustainability, Missoula presents opportunities in both private landscaping and municipal horticultural projects.
    • Bozeman: With its flourishing population and development of recreational green spaces, Bozeman offers potential job opportunities in horticultural management services.
    • Great Falls: This city engages in various horticultural efforts, particularly in community beautification and agriculture.

Engaging with local horticultural societies, networking with professionals in the industry, and staying informed about community developments can enhance your job search and uncover further opportunities in these regions.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Horticultural Services Supervisor in Montana

  • Montana State University - Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology
    Explore resources related to horticulture education, research, and extension services provided by one of the state's leading universities.
    MSU Plant Sciences

  • National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP)
    The NALP offers training, certifications, and resources for professionals in horticulture and landscaping.
    National Association of Landscape Professionals

  • American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS)
    This organization provides access to research, educational materials, and networking opportunities relevant to horticultural professionals.
    ASHS

  • Montana Department of Agriculture
    Stay informed on state regulations, programs, and resources for agriculture and horticulture, including pest management and plant health initiatives.
    Montana Department of Agriculture

  • Horticultural Research Institute (HRI)
    HRI funds research and promotes education in horticulture, providing valuable information on trends and practices.
    Horticultural Research Institute

  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Pest Control Resources
    The EPA offers important guidelines and resources regarding the use of pesticides and integrated pest management for horticultural professionals.
    EPA Pesticide Resources

  • Montana Nursery & Landscape Association (MNLA)
    This organization supports the nursery and landscape industry's growth and provides networking opportunities, education, and advocacy for horticultural services.
    MNLA

  • Extension Service - Montana State University
    Access a wealth of information on horticulture, landscaping, and sustainable practices through the MSU Extension, which offers workshops, publications, and expert advice.
    MSU Extension

  • Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service - Horticulture & Landscape Architecture
    While not Montana-based, Purdue’s resources offer valuable insights into best practices, research, and educational materials in horticulture that can assist you in your career.
    Purdue Horticulture Resources

  • Landscape Industry Certified Technician Program
    This certification program is available through various professional organizations and can enhance your credentials as a horticultural services supervisor.
    Landscape Certification

Engaging with these resources, you can deepen your knowledge, stay updated on industry trends, and enhance your professional qualifications as a Horticultural Services Supervisor in Montana.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Horticultural Services Supervisor in Montana

  • What are the primary responsibilities of a Horticultural Services Supervisor?
    As a Horticultural Services Supervisor, you manage teams that maintain landscapes, gardens, and other green spaces. This includes planning plantings, overseeing maintenance schedules, training staff, and ensuring quality control in horticultural practices.

  • What qualifications are needed to become a Horticultural Services Supervisor in Montana?
    Typically, a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, plant science, or a related field is preferred. Many employers also look for previous experience in horticulture or landscape management, along with leadership skills.

  • Do I need any certifications to work as a Horticultural Services Supervisor?
    While not always required, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Horticulturist or Landscape Industry Certified Professional can enhance your qualifications and job prospects.

  • What skills are important for a Horticultural Services Supervisor?
    Key skills include strong leadership and communication abilities, knowledge of plant care and pest management, budget management, and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with landscaping software can also be beneficial.

  • What is the job outlook for Horticultural Services Supervisors in Montana?
    The job outlook remains positive, with steady demand for horticultural services in both residential and commercial sectors. As more individuals and businesses focus on sustainability, the need for skilled supervisors in landscape management is expected to grow.

  • What are the typical work environments for this role?
    You may work in various environments, including parks, botanical gardens, commercial properties, or residential estates. Some positions may also involve outdoor work, requiring adaptability to weather conditions.

  • How much can I expect to earn as a Horticultural Services Supervisor?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. In Montana, the average salary typically ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year, but seasoned professionals in larger organizations may earn more.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, there are several pathways for advancement. With experience, you may progress to higher management positions, such as Regional Manager or Director of Horticulture, or specialize in areas like landscape architecture or nursery management.

  • What continuing education opportunities are available for Horticultural Services Supervisors?
    You can enhance your skills through workshops, seminars, and courses offered by universities or horticultural societies. Organizations like the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and local cooperative extensions often provide resources and training.

  • What challenges might I face as a Horticultural Services Supervisor?
    You may encounter challenges such as seasonal workload fluctuations, budget constraints, pest infestations, and changing environmental regulations. Strong management and problem-solving skills are essential to navigate these issues effectively.