Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers

O*NET 37-3011.00 · SOC 37-3011

Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker is a solid career choice. Median pay is $39k a year with +4.7% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 149,500 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+4.7%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$39k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
150k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

What You'd Actually Do

  • →Mow and edge lawns using riding or push mowers
  • →Plant flowers, shrubs, and trees in designated areas
  • →Rake leaves and remove debris from outdoor spaces
  • →Apply fertilizer or mulch to garden beds and lawns
  • →Operate irrigation systems and adjust sprinkler heads

Education & How to Get In

🎓
Job Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningMow and edge lawns using riding or push mowers
MiddayPlant flowers, shrubs, and trees in designated areas
AfternoonRake leaves and remove debris from outdoor spaces

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)7.0
Conventional (Organizers)3.4
Artistic (Creators)1.9
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.8
Investigative (Thinkers)1.6
Social (Helpers)1.4

Who Thrives as Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTPThe CraftspersonISTJThe InspectorESTPThe DynamoISFPThe Composer

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Job Outlook

Employment of Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers is projected to grow 4.7% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.

Will AI Replace This Job?

47/100Elevated disruption risk
  • ·48% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress

Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.

Common Questions

How much does a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker make?

The median Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker earns $39k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.

Will AI replace Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker jobs?

Our model puts Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker at 47 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 48% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.

Is Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker a growing field?

Employment is projected to grow 4.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 149,500 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker?

Most Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.

How long does it take to become a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker?

Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.

Is a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Worker career right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

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