Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

John Downard

Holt,MI

Summary

Dynamic Landscape Foreman with proven expertise at Djs Landscaping, adept at leading teams and enhancing project outcomes. Skilled in operating heavy machinery and fostering effective communication, I excel in training crews and managing resources to ensure timely, high-quality installations. Committed to safety and efficiency, I consistently meet client expectations.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Landscape Foreman

Djs Landscaping
02.2026 - Current
  • Led a crew of 2–5 employees on residential and commercial landscape projects.
  • Scheduled daily tasks and ensured work was completed on time and met company quality standards.
  • Operated skid steers, mini excavators, compactors, and other landscape equipment.
  • Installed mulch, decorative stone, edging, drainage systems, and plant material.
  • Trained new employees on equipment operation, safety, and landscaping techniques.
  • Communicated with customers to ensure project expectations were met.

Machine Operator

Site Werx Excavation
08.2023 - 02.2026
  • Operated skid steers, excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, compact track loaders, and mini excavators on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Performed excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, and site preparation for landscape and construction projects.
  • Loaded and transported materials while maintaining safe and efficient job site operations.
  • Read site plans and grade stakes to achieve accurate elevations and project specifications.
  • Conducted daily equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and reported mechanical issues.
  • Worked safely around underground utilities while following OSHA safety regulations.
  • Assisted crews with drainage installation, retaining walls, and hardscape construction.

Sewer & Water Installer / Utility Crew

  • Installed residential and commercial water service lines, sanitary sewer lines, and storm drainage systems.
  • Excavated trenches and installed PVC, HDPE, ductile iron, and sewer piping according to project specifications.
  • Connected water and sewer services to municipal main lines while ensuring proper alignment and grade.
  • Installed hydrants, valves, meter pits, cleanouts, catch basins, and manholes.
  • Performed trench shoring, backfilling, and compaction to meet local codes and safety standards.
  • Operated excavators, skid steers, compactors, and trenching equipment safely around existing underground utilities.
  • Worked closely with inspectors, utility companies, and project managers to complete installations on schedule.
  • Read blueprints and utility plans to ensure accurate installation and compliance with project requirements.

Foreman

Hta Companies
07.2018 - 08.2023
  • crews completing hardscape and landscape installation projects.
  • Installed retaining walls, paver patios, walkways, steps, and outdoor living spaces.
  • Performed site layout, grading, excavation, and proper base preparation for long-lasting installations.
  • Installed drainage systems including French drains, catch basins, and downspout drainage.
  • Operated skid steers, excavators, compactors, laser levels, and grading equipment.
  • Managed material deliveries, equipment logistics, and daily project scheduling.
  • Ensured projects were completed safely, efficiently, and according to customer specifications.

Foreman

Instant Shade
04.2018 - 07.2018
  • Led a crew of 2–5 employees on residential and commercial landscape projects.
  • Scheduled daily tasks and ensured work was completed on time and met company quality standards.
  • Operated skid steers, mini excavators, compactors, and other landscape equipment.
  • Installed mulch, decorative stone, edging, drainage systems, and plant material.
  • Trained new employees on equipment operation, safety, and landscaping techniques.
  • Communicated with customers to ensure project expectations were met.

Foreman

Lawnsprinklers
03.2016 - 04.2018
  • Performed lawn maintenance including mowing, trimming, edging, mulching, and seasonal cleanups.
  • Planted trees, shrubs, flowers, and installed sod according to landscape plans.
  • Assisted with grading, drainage improvements, and irrigation installation.
  • Loaded and unloaded materials while maintaining clean and organized job sites.
  • Safely operated hand tools, power equipment, mowers, and trimmers.
  • Worked efficiently in a fast-paced environment while following safety procedures.

Education

GED -

Lansing School District
Lansing Mi
03.2009

Skills

  • Team Leadership
  • Crew Training & Mentoring
  • Problem Solving
  • Communication
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Multitasking
  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Decision Making
  • Budget & Material Management
  • Time management

Timeline

Landscape Foreman

Djs Landscaping
02.2026 - Current

Machine Operator

Site Werx Excavation
08.2023 - 02.2026

Foreman

Hta Companies
07.2018 - 08.2023

Foreman

Instant Shade
04.2018 - 07.2018

Foreman

Lawnsprinklers
03.2016 - 04.2018

GED -

Lansing School District