This path offers the satisfaction of seeing your craftsmanship enhance landscapes, providing both aesthetic beauty and functional living spaces.
What Does an Installer Do?
A hardscaping installer is at the heart of transforming outdoor spaces. As an installer, you’ll be responsible for the hands-on work that brings landscape designs to life. This includes:
- Laying Pavers: Creating patios, driveways, walkways, and other paved areas.
- Building Retaining Walls: Constructing walls that hold back soil and create level areas in landscapes.
- Installing Outdoor Features: Setting up outdoor kitchens, fire pits, water features, and more.
- Constructing Decks and Fences: Using materials like composite decking and various types of fencing to enhance outdoor spaces.
- Working with Various Materials: From stone and concrete to wood and composite materials, you’ll use a variety of products to build durable and attractive features.
- Other Useful Skills: Electrician, Plumber, Carpenter, Irrigation, Excavation, Heavy Equipment Operator, Surveyor, Small/Large Engine Repair.
Career Path
Starting as a hardscaping installer can lead to numerous opportunities for career advancement. Here’s what the typical career path might look like:
- Entry-Level Installer: Gain experience and learn the basics of installation under the supervision of more experienced colleagues.
- Skilled Installer: Develop expertise in various installation techniques and take on more complex projects.
- Crew Leader/Foreman: Lead a team of installers, manage job sites, and ensure projects are completed on time and to high standards.
- Machine Operator: Operate and maintain machinery used in hardscaping projects.
- Project Manager: Oversee multiple projects, coordinate between different teams, manage schedules and budgets.
- Business Owner: Start your own hardscaping company, offering specialized installation services.
Benefits of a Career in Installation
Hands-On Work: Enjoy the satisfaction of creating tangible, lasting outdoor spaces.
Active Lifestyle: Stay physically active and work outdoors, avoiding the sedentary nature of desk jobs.
Job Stability: With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, the demand for skilled installers is consistently high.
Skill Development: Learn and master a variety of techniques and materials, making you a versatile and valuable asset in the industry.
Career Growth: Clear pathways for advancement allow you to grow your career and increase your earning potential over time.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to embark on a rewarding career in hardscaping installation, there are several steps you can take:
- Get Educated: Look for vocational training programs or apprenticeships in landscaping or construction.
- Gain Experience: Start with an entry-level position and learn from experienced installers.
- Obtain Certifications: Consider certifications from organizations like Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association’s Certified Concrete Paver Installer certification to enhance your credentials.
- Network: Connect with professionals in the industry to learn about job opportunities and trends.
Join the hardscaping industry as an installer and play a crucial role in creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces. Explore the potential for growth, the satisfaction of hands-on work, and the opportunity to build a fulfilling career.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
Harrison Woytko
President of Boulder Landscape, LLC
“I saw the need that we could become true landscape hardscape professionals.” – Harrison Woytko, President of Boulder Landscape, LLC
Want to Hear More From Industry Pros?
Watch our video interviews from people pursuing careers in the industry.