37 Grounds Maintenance Worker Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Grounds Maintenance Worker interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. When have you ran into an issue with a supplier? What was the issue, and how did you resolve it?
How to Answer
This is a "tell me about a time" type of question. Be sure to tell your story clearly and do not go on and on. If the interviewer would like more detail, they will ask.
Written by Rachelle Enns
2. Do you have any mechanical skills?
How to Answer
Most landscaping jobs require you to use mechanical tools and to have an understanding of the skills and safety required to properly use these. Your answer should include examples of tools that you have used in the past and, perhaps, an example of a job where you had to draw upon your mechanical skills and knowledge.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have strong mechanical skills. I was required to work on a large private landscaping gig that including the install of a ponds, deck, drainage system and retaining wall. During this job I used a wide variety of mechanical equipment including ABC, and XYZ."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. Describe what interests you about yard care, and maintaining the property?
How to Answer
What is it about yard maintenance that interests you so much? This is an opportunity to tell the hiring manager a little bit more about yourself and your education.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Every since I was young I had an interest in learning more about plants, the weather, and the science of it all. I find it very fulfilling to take a plain yard or property and turn it into an oasis that the client will love for years to come. It's like creating a live work of art!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. Do you have any experience using a zero turn mower?
How to Answer
If you have experience using a zero turn mower you can answer briefly and use an example of a time when you did use it. Perhaps even discuss one of the challenges of using this type of equipment.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I use a zero turn mower every day in my current position. I really enjoy using this piece of equipment because it doubles my cutting speed. It took some time for me to be able to turn it around comfortably but now I'm a whiz on it!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. On a fertilizer bag, what does the three numbers stand for? Example: 20-20-20.
How to Answer
Fertilizer knowledge is an important skill to have when it comes to being a grounds maintenance worker. If you do not understand the 3 numbers, do some research. Your answer should be brief and to the point.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"The 3 numbers on a fertilizer bag refer to the amount of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium present; always in that order. As a general rule, when the numbers are equal to each other, this means the fertilizer is good for general use."
Written by Rachelle Enns
6. As you walked into our facility today, what did you notice about our property?
How to Answer
This question is a test to your attention to detail. You will want to go into the interview knowing some of the plant varieties and unique features of the property and be prepared to talk about them.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"As I walked into your facility today I noticed that you have multiple varieties of plants all throughout the property. Everything looked pristine and I especially loved the water feature with the lily pads and koi fish."
Written by Rachelle Enns
7. When is a proper time to apply fertilizer to the yard? What would you recommend for our grounds, without serious evaluation?
How to Answer
If the interviewer has specified that they would like a recommendation without serious evaluation, it is best to keep your answer short and sweet.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Since we are in a warmer climate, I would recommend applying fertilizer in the late spring just before the major growth season hits. At first glance one recommendation that I would make would be to add more variation in colour when it comes to the flower beds. I also noticed a bit of broadleaf starting just east of the water feature. That is something I would take care of immediately."
Written by Rachelle Enns
8. What experience do you have pruning shrubs and trees?
How to Answer
If you have experience as a landscaper and have pruned shrubs and trees before you can show the hiring manager that you have strong knowledge by also adding in a fact or two about pruning.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have some solid experience in pruning. My most recent job required me to plant new trees and shrubs so pruning was not a requirement since the crown of a young tree should not be cut back."
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. Have you operated any landscaping equipment, such as a skid steer?
How to Answer
When you answer this question be sure to include detail on your time with a skid steer.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have used a variety of landscaping equipment, including a skid steer. I have also used hand tools and a zero turn mower."
Written by Rachelle Enns
10. When have you negotiated a contract or a deal with a supplier?
How to Answer
You may or may not bring supplier-direct experience depending on the time you have spent working for private property owners. If you do have experience with this type of work you can say, "When I worked in private landscaping I did spend some time negotiating contracts with suppliers for large amounts of fertilizer and brick. I am very comfortable in that type of situation and stay up to date on going and competitive rates for landscaping materials."
If you have not spent time negotiating a deal with a supplier you can answer, "I have not had the opportunity to lead a supplier negotiation, however; it's a challenge that I would be happy to take on. I am a strong negotiator in my personal life and am confident in my abilities to work out a strong price or contract."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"When I worked in private landscaping I did spend some time negotiating contracts with suppliers for large amounts of fertilizer and brick. I am very comfortable in that type of situation and stay up to date on going and competitive rates for landscaping materials."
Written by Rachelle Enns
11. What various skills do you have in yard care, landscaping, etc?
How to Answer
You will likely have a complete list of skills on your resume but this is a good time to highlight your strongest, most notable skills. Beware to not go off on a long list of items and lose the interviewer's attention.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have a wide range of skills in yard care and landscaping, however; my strongest skills are sod laying, mowing, trimming, planting, watering and fertilizing. I can also perform sprinkler installation."
Written by Rachelle Enns
12. You may be in charge of hiring and firing of staff, what type of leadership experience do you have with that?
How to Answer
If you have been in charge of hiring and terminating staff your answer should include an approximate amount of people you have hired, let go, and led at a time.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"In my previous 2 positions I was tasked with our seasonal hires which included approximately 40 interviews 25 hires and 20 exit interviews when the season was complete. I did need to terminate 5 employees during that season. In my grounds maintenance career, I have led teams of up to 30 people."
Written by Rachelle Enns
13. How do you get the best out of your employees or coworkers?
How to Answer
Answer this question with some good examples of how you have motivated your previous employees or co-workers to bring their "A-game" every day.
Written by Rachelle Enns
14. When have you misunderstood instructions at your last job? What was the consequences and how did you overcome that?
How to Answer
Think of a recent example of a time when you made a mistake at work. Did you own up to it? How did you fix it? What was your overall behaviour around the error?
IE: "Last summer I was working for a private client and they requested some new trees be planted. I added too much mulch around them and ended up suffocating a few of the new trees. My client called me with their dissatisfaction and I immediately apologized for the error. I was able to resuscitate all but two, which I replaced using my own funds. It's a mistake I will never make again."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Last summer I was working for a private client and they requested some new trees be planted. I added too much mulch around them and ended up suffocating a few of the new trees. My client called me with their dissatisfaction and I immediately apologized for the error. I was able to resuscitate all but two, which I replaced using my own funds. It's a mistake I will never make again."
Written by Rachelle Enns
15. Do you believe you are qualified for this role? Do you have proper licenses for this job? If not, are you willing to attend training courses after work hours?
How to Answer
This is a good time to talk about the formal education that you bring to the job as well as any additional courses you may be interested in taking.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I do believe I am qualified for this role. I currently hold my Landscapers Qualifications Certificate and plan to gain my Red Seal Certification over evening an weekend courses. I am always willing to attend additional training outside of work hours."
Written by Rachelle Enns
16. If you were hired for our beginning grounds crew position, where do you see yourself within our organization in five years?
How to Answer
It's okay to be honest with the interviewer, as long as you don't plan on leaving within a year! Ideally, not within two years. Express your passion for the facility you are interviewing for, also the passion you have for working with your hands and outdoors. Tell the interviewer this is an ideal job for you, and you don't plan on leaving in the foreseeable future.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to grow with your organization in a natural way. I am really happy in my career and love working in the outdoors. It's all I really need and I am ready to offer longevity to your company."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"In 5 years I would like to have worked my way into a managerial or supervisory role. Attending classes in the evenings and weekends to obtain my Red Seal certification in landscaping would be on my radar as well, if the opportunity was presented to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
17. When have you had difficulties creating a full lawn? How did you solve the problem?
How to Answer
Prior to your interview you should have an idea of a few stories that you can tell of when you overcame a challenge. In this case, you can take the interviewer step by step through the dilemma and how you found a solution.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Last year I had a client with a very difficult lawn. There were a lot of thin patches and dead spots on their lawn. I started with a soil kit, and tested the alkaline level of the soil. The soil was slightly acidic so I raised the pH level by using a drop spreader. I also added pulverized lime to the lawn. It grew back very well and my client was happy with the result."
Written by Rachelle Enns
18. What type of botany training do you have?
How to Answer
If you do not have formal botany training then you should reply with a focus on you personal interest and research.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"The botany training that I have comes from on-the-job learning, and a lot of reading and research. I spend much of my time online as well as watching YouTube videos from expert botanists."
Written by Rachelle Enns
19. When was the ability to prioritize tasks, important in your last position? Give me an example.
How to Answer
This question will help the interviewer determine whether you are accustomed to making you own decisions in regards to prioritizing your day, or if you will need a supervisor to tell you what to do in a day. You should answer with an example of times that you have been given the ability to create your own schedule.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"In my current position, I work for a private estate. My employer allows me to create my own schedule of tasks every Friday for the upcoming week. I then submit the task list and schedule to him. He will make minor edits if necessary. It's really important in this position to prioritize as there are so many things to do."
Written by Rachelle Enns
20. Why did you leave your former job?
How to Answer
Before you answer this question be sure that you understand the difference between being laid off and being terminated. If you were terminated (fired) you need to own up to that and explain the situation. If you were laid off (perhaps your last position was seasonal) than you can talk about that further.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My last position was seasonal and I understood that I would not have a job come winter. I had just relocated to the city and needed a new position. I am now seeking a permanent opportunity with a company that can offer me year-round work."
Written by Rachelle Enns
21. What motivates you to work hard?
How to Answer
This answer should include a statement about your work ethic and also why you love to do what you do.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"From a very young age I have always displayed a very strong work ethic. I do so because people rely on me to show up and do what is asked of me. Personally, I am continually motivated by affirmation that my work is of high quality."
Written by Rachelle Enns
22. What landscaping experience do you have?
How to Answer
You should take some time to expand on your resume a bit, when answering this question. Allow the hiring manager to visualize the type of work that you have done.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have worked as a private landscaper, as a landscaper for the city and also at a golf course doing green management. Of the three I would say the most challenging was the position as a city landscaper. The range in work was vast and every day brought a new challenge."
Written by Rachelle Enns
23. What part of this job description do you see a potential problem with?
How to Answer
Most job descriptions will describe a very lengthy list of skills the hiring manager hopes to attract. It is okay to not be a match 100% as some of these are not always a "must have." Be honest when you are answering this question.
Written by Rachelle Enns
24. How often did you miss work at your last job?
How to Answer
This is a good time to talk about your accountability to your job and what former supervisors have said about your level of reliability.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I am a very reliable employee. Rarely am I late and I have not missed a day of work in my last position, unexcused. My previous supervisor would be able to provide you with a great reference as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns
25. How long do you see yourself working for us?
How to Answer
If grounds maintenance is a career you would like to pursue for a long time, you could reply with: "I see my career being in this field and plan to stay long term. As you can see in my resume, I am not a job-hopper and am a loyal employee."
If this position is a stepping stone and you want more you could reply with, "I love grounds maintenance and would eventually like to lead a team and end up in a managerial role. If that type of growth is something that I could experience with your company, I would be thrilled to stay very long term."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I see my career being in this field and plan to stay long term. As you can see in my resume, I am not a job-hopper and am a loyal employee."
Written by Rachelle Enns
26. Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
This is where you should let your unique skills shine! If you were the hiring manager, what would make you choose yourself for this job? What makes you unique?
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I believe you should hire me for this job because I have a true interest in botany and horticulture. I spend my spare time researching new plant species and bring a lot of knowledge to the job simply because of my sincere interest. This is a career that I see as a long term fit."
Written by Rachelle Enns
27. Tell me a little about yourself.
How to Answer
This question helps the interviewer get to know you a bit better. You should try to say something that is not on your resume, and make it interesting and tie it in with the job you are looking for.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"In my spare time I really enjoy reading books about gardening. I also spend time in the mountains on the weekends, going camping and biking. I am new to the city and am looking for a grounds maintenance position because I love being outdoors."
Written by Rachelle Enns
28. Why are you seeking new employment?
How to Answer
If you are currently working with another company be sure to remain positive and refrain from speaking negatively about them.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My current company has been great and I have learned a lot from them but there is little opportunity to grow into a team lead role. I am ready to take on more responsibility which is why I am seeking a new position."
Written by Rachelle Enns
29. Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
This is where it will be important to have done some research on the company prior to your interview. What values do they have that attract you? Perhaps they have a variety of clients that you are interested in working for. Be specific when answering this question and draw on your previous research.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"When I first read your job posting it attracted me because of the upbeat and fun environment you seem to enjoy. After going onto your website I saw that you have a great range of interesting clients such as XYZ Golf Course and ABC Regional Park. All of this seems very attractive to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
30. What do you see yourself doing within the first days of this job?
How to Answer
This is the time to take a humble approach. As much as you would like to take on the world, be realistic when answering this question.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Within the first few days, I would see myself learning from my supervisor and taking in any new information given to me. I'd like to take the time to get to know the operation, tools, and the team."
Written by Rachelle Enns
31. What type of work environment do you prefer?
How to Answer
Do you prefer to work outdoors, or indoors? Independently or as part of a crew? You can mention some of your work preferences while also keeping in mind the type of environment that this potential employer is offering. Why do you want to work for them? Be sure to include that in your answer.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My preferred work environment is an outdoor environment with a smaller grounds crew. I enjoy learning new skills and feel that there is more opportunity for that in a smaller crew environment. From what I understand, you run crews of 4-6 people which is exactly what I would be looking for."
Written by Rachelle Enns
32. Describe a time you were faced with stresses which tested your skills.
How to Answer
Are you able to take a stressful situation and turn it around? The hiring manager would like an example of a time when you remained positive and were able to troubleshoot yourself out of the situation. Your answer should include a recent example but remain brief. If the interviewer wants you to expand on that, then do so when asked.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"One recent, and quite stressful time, was during a park maintenance job. It was a new location for us and my colleague ended up being exposed to poison ivy. We were already on a tight deadline. I was able to quickly administer an anti-itch ointment and take him back to his personal vehicle so that he could go to the doctor to be assessed. After that, I continued on the day by myself. I worked overtime that day to ensure my jobs were complete."
Written by Rachelle Enns
33. Are you a detail oriented person?
How to Answer
When asked this question, most everyone will say 'yes' so be sure to give an example to qualify your statement.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Yes, I am a very detail oriented person. You really do need to pay attention to detail in this line of work. My previous co-workers and supervisors have often commented on my ability to recognize any missed detail."
Written by Rachelle Enns
34. What skills are essential for this job?
How to Answer
Having read the job posting and/or job description, this can be a simple question to answer. The essential skills will be listed there.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"From my understanding, you are looking for someone with strong communication skills who also brings experience in labour, outdoor landscaping, and a knowledge of horticulture. I possess all of these essential skills."
Written by Rachelle Enns
35. Are you efficient with your time?
How to Answer
What steps do you take in a day to ensure that you are being efficient? When you answer this question be sure to use examples. IE: "I am very time efficient. Part of my efficiency includes taking care of my tools, putting them away appropriately, and in the correct place. This saves me the time of searching for a tool later in the day. Also, if I have multiple sites to visit I will map it out in my mind to minimize travel time."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I am very time efficient. Part of my efficiency includes taking care of my tools, putting them away appropriately, and in the correct place. This saves me the time of searching for a tool later in the day. Also, if I have multiple sites to visit I will map it out in my mind to minimize travel time."
Written by Rachelle Enns
36. How are your communication skills?
How to Answer
When answering this question you can talk about your communication style and also the type of communication that you prefer when dealing with a supervisor.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have always been told that my communication skills are strong. I try to communicate in a way that is simple and sincere. I like people, so that is easy for me. Clear and simple communication is the best way for me to be spoken to as well. I like to know what my responsibilities are for the day and go from there. If I have questions, I will certainly ask for clarification."
Written by Rachelle Enns
37. Do you work well unsupervised?
How to Answer
This is a great time to give an example of a time when you worked unsupervised and were commended with positive feedback.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I work very well unsupervised. In my previous position I spent a lot of time working on my own with consistently strong feedback from my supervisor. I find it easy to stay focused on the task at hand when I work on my own."
Written by Rachelle Enns