Landscaper
Construct, plant and look after gardens and parks to make pleasant environments for people to live, work and relax in.
Also known as: landscape gardener, landscape designer, garden designer
About the job
Salary
Source: National Careers Service
Weekly
£385
Entry level
£500
Experienced
Monthly
£1,667
Entry level
£2,167
Experienced
Yearly
£20,000
Entry level
£26,000
Experienced
8,500
people are currently employed
High growth
200 more jobs in 5 years
These figures refer to this job and similar ones with comparable skills and qualifications. They only apply to Scotland. Source: Oxford Economics
What it's like
You would construct, plant and look after gardens and parks to make pleasant environments for people to live, work and relax in.
You’d make the most of the land or space you are working with to make it look attractive. Some landscapers specialise in interior projects with plants and garden features, often in shopping centres or large office blocks.
The work would vary depending on whether you are working inside or outside, the time of year and the condition of the space you are given. You’d need to use a variety of tools, and possibly also machines like small mechanical diggers.
You would follow the designs drawn up by garden designers or landscape architects. You’d use your knowledge of plants to ensure that they grow and thrive.
You would:
Discuss requirements with clients
Work from design plans
Order supplies
Prepare the ground or interior space
Turf and seed lawns
Plant and prune trees and shrubs
Put in new plants
Build features like paving, paths and water features
Construct rock or water gardens
After completing a project, you’d advise the client on how to look after the space. You’d offer an on-going maintenance service.
Hours
Environment
Travel
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Landscaper'
Select qualification level(s)
Other careers that you might like
Gardener
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- creative
- respecting
- building relationships
- verbal communication
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
- taking initiative
- time management
- taking responsibility
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore the sections shown for more information about getting into this career.
You might have qualifications which are not shown here but will allow you access to a course. You can compare your qualifications by looking at their SCQF Level. For more information about this, check out the SCQF website.
Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Art and Design
Biology
Design and Manufacture
Environmental Science
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Rural Skills
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this job but most entrants have a qualification in garden design, horticulture or landscape design or a similar subject.
Experience in garden design, horticulture, or landscape design is usually required. Qualifications that demonstrate this experience such as a Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) in Landscape Management (SCQF level 7).
Alternatively you can gain relevant work-based qualifications such as Scottish Vocational Qualification in Landscaping (SCQF level 2).
To enter a Landscape Management Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) requires National 5 qualifications and one to two Highers.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Landscaper'
