What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Agronomy position at United Land Services?
Company Overview: United Land Services (ULS) is a leading full-service landscaping company, providing a comprehensive range of commercial landscape installation and maintenance services. Our expertise spans landscape design, maintenance, irrigation systems, hardscapes, and outdoor lighting. We proudly serve diverse properties, from single-family home developments to condominium complexes, commercial buildings, and shopping centers.
Job Description: The Director of Agronomy will be responsible for maintaining high standards of agronomic practices across the company and ensuring all branches comply with local regulations. This role includes working closely with partners to manage and optimize application programs, training branch managers and account managers on pest identification and management, and overseeing the procurement of chemicals and fertilizers. The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader with a deep understanding of agronomy, capable of driving operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Responsibilities:
- Ensure compliance with FDAC and other state regulations across all branches and ensure all team members handling applications possess valid licenses/certifications.
- Develop and implement standard agronomic plans and ensure adherence across all branches.
- Collaborate with subcontractors to ensure the effectiveness of application programs and manage program adjustments as needed.
- Lead the transition of agronomic services in-house, setting up the necessary technology, equipment, and training.
- Conduct startup agronomic inspections for new properties, including soil sampling and action planning.
- Assist in pricing bids for new business opportunities and contribute to the growth of the company.
- Perform regular site inspections, providing feedback and solutions to ensure the highest quality of service.
- Conduct property inspections to create agronomy punch lists for quality control purposes.
- Develop and deliver training materials for branch managers and account managers on pest identification and management, including the creation of troubleshooting toolboxes for spot treatment.
- Coordinate with branch managers to create and maintain schedules for spray technicians and manage product inventory.
- Oversee the cost negotiations and procurement of all chemicals and fertilizers.
- Manage the scheduling, purchasing, and selection/coordination for seasonal color across the company.
- Handle all related work orders, reports, customer complaints, billing, etc., ensuring client satisfaction.
- Offer Continuing Education Unit (CEU) training to management companies.
Qualifications:
- Extensive experience in agronomy management, with proven success in a leadership role.
- Strong knowledge of FDAC regulations and compliance requirements.
- Experience negotiating with vendors and managing budgets.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Ability to train and mentor team members on best practices in agronomy.
- Willingness to travel to various company locations for inspections and meetings.
- Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field is a plus.
