Try your local garden center, they may have someone in your area that they can recommend. They know the real landscapers.
Be specific on what you want and what it costs. Tell them that you need to be there and review the work when complete. And they will not get paid until you are satified. $30 / hr is not a bad price , however it it were my yard, they would need to come back if they did not have tools.
It sounds like you have found the guys with a truck and no business licence (not a true landscaper). Once you establish a price for the completed job (not pay by the hour) who cares if they cut it by hand or use electic shears for the ornamental grass. They get paid the same.

Good Luck

I would get a friend or relative who is bolder than you to tell them what is expected of them, and if you don't approve of the work they will not get paid for what isn't done right. I hope you have someone like that in your life. If not try to remember they owe you good work for your money. I hope you find a good company.

I agree...pay by the job not by the hour.