Woody Plant Buyer

About Scott Byron & Co.

Scott Byron & Co. is a landscape design-build firm dedicated to a client-centered approach for every outdoor design project. We create, cultivate, and curate art in harmony with nature to transform outdoor spaces to last a lifetime. For over 40 years, our firm has continued to celebrate a longstanding reputation for creating elegant, luxurious, and highly personalized environments.

Woody Plant Buyer Role:

A Woody Buyer is responsible for sourcing and procuring trees and shrubs from nurseries. Ensuring the quality, quantity, and variety meet the needs of landscaping projects while adhering to budget constraints. Requires knowledge of species, growth habits, disease identification, and market trends to make informed purchasing decisions.

Why Join Scott Byron & Co.

• We focus on giving teammates the freedom to make decisions – without micromanagement. We want team members to feel appreciated and heard while growing themselves and the company.
• We continually build, develop, and invest in our talented team members, allowing us to deliver our client’s dreams in every market we serve.
• We focus on culture; we even have a committee for it! We value authenticity, imagination, equality, fearlessness, and exceptionalism.
• We offer hybrid working and the freedom to make decisions.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Identify and source appropriate species based on project requirements, including considerations like climate, soil conditions, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance needs.
• Negotiate pricing and terms with nurseries and suppliers.
• Conduct on-site inspections of plant material stock to assess quality, size, and health in accordance with Scott Byron & Co standards.
• Generate purchase receipts and receive materials into Aspire.
• Conduct periodic counts of physical inventory as required.
• Manage inventory of trees/shrubs to ensure timely delivery to project sites.
• Inspect incoming deliveries for any signs of disease, pests, or damage.
• Ensure materials comply with industry standards and local regulations.
• Reject any substandard materials and negotiate replacements with suppliers.
• Stay updated on current market trends relating to environmental concerns, species, pricing, and availability.
• Manage vendor relations and continue to expand network of vendors by identifying potential new suppliers based on quality and price competitiveness.
• Research and recommend new and/or alternate varieties that may be suitable for specific landscaping projects.
• Effectively communicate with Procurement Manager and production team; informing them on progress, barriers, or difficulties in completing project requirements or assignments.
• Coordinate delivery and nursery pickup schedules with project teams and Yard Coordinator.
• Successfully manage transportation logistics, including permits and necessary documentation for deliveries.
• Oversee proper handling and storage of tree and shrub materials on site.
• Work closely with landscape designers and project managers to determine optimal selections for each project.
• Communicate effectively with suppliers regarding any changes in project needs or delivery timelines.
• Understand and promote the importance of environmental stewardship/conservation and respect for natural resources in conjunction with company goals and objectives as they relate to client desires and sustainability initiatives.
• Represent the Company in a positive manner befitting our brand and image.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and Experience You Offer:

• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture or related field preferred but not required. Certified Arborist (ISA) - preferred.
• Botanical Knowledge: Must possess a comprehensive understanding of various species, their growth habits, and potential disease or pest issues.
• Arboriculture Skills: Must possess a basic knowledge of pruning, planting techniques, and proper material care practices.
• Negotiation Skills: Must possess the ability to negotiate favorable pricing and terms with suppliers.
• Market Awareness: Must be informed about current industry trends and pricing for different material varieties.
• Quality Control: Must possess the ability to identify and assess the quality of trees/shrubs/plants, etc.
• Logistics Management: Must have experience with coordinating deliveries and managing inventory.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic computer skills are required. Experience in Aspire or other cloud-based management software is a plus.
• Candidates must have a valid local driver’s license and good driving record.
• Required to pass a post-offer drug screen and (ongoing) periodic drug screen according to DOT guidelines.
• Must be 21 years or older.
• Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Must be able to communicate in English, including: read, write, and with use of computers and phones.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Group Medical Coverage
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• 401(k) Employer Match
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Sick Leave
• Paid Life Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Flexible Spending Account
• Short Term Disability
• Long Term Disability
• Basic Life / AD&D Insurance
• Supplemental Term Life Insurance
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement

We’re committed to developing an inclusive and ethical environment that values diversity and equality. We welcome all candidates of any age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, physical or mental ability to apply. Our company culture is based on the idea that individuals of all backgrounds can come together as a team dedicated to quality, creativity, and respect.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. This employer will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Lake Bluff, IL 60044

Salary : $70,000