Foreman

[pogo]

What is a good fair rate to pay a begining foreman? He has been with me now for 8 months and has proved his knowledge and reliability.<br>Thanks<br>Rob

[Lazer]

Well it depends on the market you're in. In our area a employee like that would earn $10-$12 per hour.

[jeffclc]

This is an industry that is behind the times with pay scales. As Lazer said, $10-12/hour is a going rate for a foreman. Compare this with another skilled trade, plumber, electricitian, carpenter, and that is what an apoerntice would make in his 2nd-3rd year. Look at what a foreman makes, and there is a huge difference. Sad to say, but that is why everyone is having difficulties recruting and keeping employees.

[Lazer]

Lawn Mowing is not a skilled trade. You don't need to be an apprentice for 4 years and then you're a journeyman. I'm not sure that's a fair comparison.<p>What IS a big challenge is that it's seasonal. If you could work at the same level 12 months/year, employment challenges would lessen.

[moonarrow]

hey pogo, noticed that you are in San Antonio when I was in Dallas a year and half ago beginning formans started at about 8 or 9 an hour and worked up to 12 or 13 depending on how many properties they were running a week. <p>----------<br>Dale moonarrow@hotmail.com<br>Southern lawn and Landscape

[paul]

My foremen make between $28K - $39K per year.<br>season from March 15th - Dec.15. A starting laborer is $8.00 per hr.<p>----------<br>paul<br>

[gene gls]

I was paying $10.00 per hour part time to trim + blow.No one wants to work where they have to swet and get dirty.

[pogo]

Thanks for all your replies. I have been paying my starting laborors at $7.00 and my foreman now makes $9.00. I will bump him up around mid March when things start getting more busy. $9.50 for a couple of weeks then up to $10.00. I always give bonuses when things are running smooth or if I notice good work. Attendance goes a long way with me as well.<br>Thanks<br>Rob