Horticultural Technicians

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment for grounds maintenance workers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all careers through 2033. High turnover in this industry continually provides openings. Many horticultural technicians work only part time, so employers are often looking to fill vacant positions. Because wages for beginning workers are low, employers have difficulty attracting enough workers. Opportunities will be best in areas with temperate climates.

The continued development and redevelopment of urban areas, such as the construction of commercial and industrial buildings, shopping malls, homes, highways, and parks, contribute to the steady growth of employment opportunities for horticulture technicians. An increased interest in lawn care and the environment also has created a demand for skilled workers. There is a wider public awareness of the benefits of lawn care, such as safer yards for children to play in, more attractive surroundings for family relaxation and entertaining, and increased home value. To care for their property while conserving leisure time, homeowners are expected to continue to use professional lawn care services.

On the other hand, many homeowners like to care for their landscaping themselves. To cater to this consumer, many retail chain stores, from drugstores to hardware stores, greatly expand their lawn and garden centers every spring and summer and need knowledgeable horticultural workers on staff.