A landscaping and groundskeeping worker maintains the outdoor spaces around homes, businesses, and public areas. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start without a four-year degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You handle the equipment and machines that keep outdoor spaces looking maintained and safe. Your days involve mowing, trimming, planting, and controlling machines to shape lawns and gardens. You work with your hands, moving materials and performing physical tasks in all kinds of weather. You also talk with customers and property managers to understand what they need, stay current on best practices, and follow safety rules to protect yourself and others on the job site.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers earn a median of $39,150 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 158,200 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You do not need a four-year degree to start. Most positions require some job training and hands-on experience. You can begin by learning equipment operation and basic groundskeeping techniques on the job or through short training programs. As you work, you will develop critical thinking skills to solve problems, improve your ability to listen and speak with customers, and build knowledge of plants, chemicals, and equipment maintenance. Many workers start as helpers and move into more skilled roles over time.
Most people enter this field through entry-level positions and on-the-job training. If you are deciding between starting right away and pursuing additional training, Pathly can map the landscaping and groundskeeping worker path that fits you to map out your path with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a landscaping and groundskeeping worker, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like working with your hands and seeing tangible results. You are practical, detail-oriented, and comfortable working outdoors in different conditions.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).