Director Plant Operations Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Arbor Care is a growing company local to Delaware’s quaint historical town of Lewes. Created in 2014, Arbor Care is a leader in the plant and lawn care diagnostic business. We believe in enhancing the beauty of our natural landscape while providing the highest level of customer service.

About the Role

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Director of Plant Care Operations to lead, scale, and optimize our Plant Health Care (PHC) division across residential, commercial, and HOA portfolios. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence, team performance, service quality, and revenue growth—while ensuring alignment with company standards for safety, customer experience, and efficiency. The ideal candidate is both a hands‑on operator and strategic leader who thrives in a growth environment and is passionate about building high‑performing teams and scalable systems.

What You’ll Do: Operational Leadership & Team Development

• Lead all plant care operations including scheduling, routing, service delivery, and quality control
• Optimize labor, materials, and equipment to drive efficiency and profitability
• Develop and implement SOPs across all PHC services
• Monitor production metrics and adjust operations in real time
• Coach and develop managers, supervisors, and field teams
• Establish performance expectations and accountability standards
• Conduct performance reviews, field audits, and training initiatives
• Foster a strong culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork

Client & Account Management

• Oversee service delivery for key residential, commercial, and HOA clients
• Ensure exceptional customer experience and resolution of escalated concerns
• Partner with sales to drive retention, renewals, and upselling opportunities
• Build and maintain relationships with developers and large‑scale clients
• Audit subcontractor work to ensure compliance with specifications

Financial & Performance Management

• Manage departmental budgets, forecasting, and cost controls
• Track and improve key KPIs, including:
  • Revenue growth
  • Production efficiency
  • Callback/re‑treat rates
  • Customer satisfaction
• Identify opportunities to improve margins through operational efficiencies

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations related to plant care and pesticide application
• Lead safety programs, training, and incident prevention initiatives
• Maintain proper licensing, certifications, and documentation (including SDS)

Strategic Growth & Expansion

• Develop and execute strategies to grow the plant care division, particularly in HOA and commercial markets
• Design and implement new service offerings and programs
• Support onboarding of new clients, territories, and service lines
• Collaborate with leadership on long‑term operational strategy

What We’re Looking For: Core Competencies

• Proven ability to scale operations in a growing organization
• Strong background in process development and operational efficiency
• Experience with routing/scheduling systems
• Deep knowledge of regional plant care and horticulture
• Strong leadership, communication, and team‑building skills
• Results‑driven with a focus on profitability and growth
• High level of accountability and ownership
• Strategic thinker with hands‑on execution ability
• Strong financial and business acumen

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or related field required
• 5+ years of leadership experience in plant health care, landscaping, arboriculture, or related field
• Proven experience managing teams, operations, and budgets
• Strong understanding of plant care, pest management, and horticultural practices
• Experience with HOA, commercial, or large‑scale residential accounts preferred
• Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain)
• ISA Arborist Certification required
• Knowledge of tree care, hazard tree evaluation, and integrated pest management

Compensation/Benefits For Permanent FT Staff

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Health Insurance subsidized by Arbor Care
• Voluntary Dental and Vision
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Professional License/Certification Reimbursement
• Retirement Plan (401k) with 3% employer match.
• 7 Paid Holidays including a paid week off from Christmas to New Years.
• Team Building Activities throughout the year
• Plus much more

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work both in‑office and in the field (minimum 20% field‑based)
• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and working in varying weather conditions
• Exposure to outdoor elements, equipment, and plant care materials
• Ability to travel to customer locations as needed
• Regular use of computer, communication tools, and office equipment

Additional Information

• This position has exposure to inclement weather, insects, and pesticides (safety training provided).
• Arbor Care is an equal opportunity employer (EOE).