Grow Your Career
with Emerald Island
Find your career path with a fast-growing, locally oriented company that invests in your success.
Our Mission
We’re not just a lawn care company—we’re on a mission to create greener, healthier communities across the Mid-Atlantic. With 500+ team members and growing, we’ve built a reputation backed by our culture: Go Beyond. Grow Beyond. We invest in our people, promote from within, and celebrate those who show up and stand out—many of our leaders started right here. Along the way, you’ll get strong benefits, real career growth, and the support to build your future.
Benefits That Set Us Apart
We invest in our people because they're the reason Emerald Island is the best in the business.
Time Off & Work-Life Balance
- Paid time off and sick days
- Up to 8 paid holidays per year plus a floating holiday
- Paid parental leave
- The week between Christmas and New Years off, fully paid!
Financial Security
- Competitive pay and performance-based bonuses
- Opportunities for sales commissions
- Financial wellness resources and planning tools
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Company-paid life insurance
- Referral bonuses
Career Development
- Paid training and certifications
- All equipment, uniforms, and tools provided
- Clear promotion paths with our Go Beyond Grow Beyond Awards recognizing outstanding performance
- Supportive, team-oriented work environment
Health & Wellness
- Medical: 3 plan options to choose from
- Health Saving Account
- Dental and Vision
- Mental health and Wellness programs, including EAP
- Optional benefits: short and long-term disability, critical care and hospitalization, legal resources, and Norton LifeLock coverage
Great Team Culture
Rewards and Recognition
Safety Focused
Career Advancement Opportunities
Grow With Purpose. Lead With Impact.
See how your career can grow at Emerald Island, from Trainee to Master Technician and everywhere in between.
Trainee
Join our team, learn from the experts, and start your career with us.
Registered Technician
Grow your knowledge and focus on customer service.
Territory Manager
Build strong relationships, grow your territory, and drive results.
Commercial Territory Manager
Earn your commercial license and train new team members.
Route Manager
Earn additional licenses and provide exceptional service.
Master Technician
Be the expert, set the standard, and lead by example.
Hear From Our Team
Don't just take our word for it. Here's what our employees say about working at Emerald Island.
Since I’ve been employed at Emerald Island, I’ve learned many skills that help me do my job more effectively. I can now diagnose different weeds and grasses as well recognizing problems that arise. In one word my experience has been great.
Chris Kelly, Service Leader
Since beginning my career at Emerald Island, I’ve been able to expand my knowledge in agronomy. Being able to further such knowledge/interest has helped me build important relationships with in the company as well as display top tier customer service to our loving customers.
Jane Faber, Service Leader
I’ve been with Emerald Island for five years now and I find the job to be challenging but rewarding. There is a lot of opportunity here for growth and advancement.
Jessica Reese, Agronomist
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working at Emerald Island
Do I need lawn care experience to apply?
No experience needed! Most of our Service Leaders start with zero lawn care experience. We provide comprehensive paid training, all equipment, uniforms, and tools. If you're willing to learn and enjoy working outdoors, we'll teach you everything you need to know.
What does a typical day look like for a Service Leader?
You'll start at a branch each morning, loading your truck with the day's materials, and head out on your route. A typical day involves treating 12-15 lawns, talking with homeowners about their lawn's progress, and returning to the branch by late afternoon. You're outdoors, independent, and making a visible difference every day.
What training and certifications are provided?
Emerald Island provides a comprehensive training program that includes classroom instruction, field training with experienced mentors, and ongoing education. We also pay for all required state certifications and licenses. Our 300-acre research farm gives you hands-on experience with the latest lawn care science.
What are the physical requirements?
Service Leaders need to be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, walk long distances throughout the day, and work in all weather conditions. A valid driver's license is required. The role is physically active but rewarding - you'll be in great shape.
What benefits does Emerald Island offer?
Full-time employees receive medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) with 3% company match, paid time off, 8 paid holidays, paid parental leave, $50,000 life insurance, scholarship programs, and - our favorite perk - FREE lawn care for your own home. We also offer employee referral bonuses.
How quickly can I advance?
Emerald Island promotes from within. Many of our Branch managers started as Service Leaders. With strong performance, you can advance to Senior Technician, Team Lead and even a Branch Manager.
How long does the hiring process take?
For Service Leader roles, the process typically takes 1-2 weeks: phone screen, in-person interview with the Branch Manager, offer, background check, and onboarding. We move quickly because we know great candidates don't stay on the market long.
Does Emerald Island offer scholarships or tuition assistance?
Yes! Our scholarship program offers up to four $2,500 scholarships per year for employees and their children. That's up to $10,000 in educational support. We believe in investing in our team's futures beyond just their careers at Emerald Island.
Now Hiring in Knoxville, TN
Find Your Role at Emerald Island
Join a local team cultivating healthier lawns and better outdoor spaces across Tennessee.
Come Grow With Us
Join a team that values your growth, rewards your hard work, and treats you like family. Your next career starts here.
