1

Athletic Turf Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Non-Exempt Reports To: (General Turf - General Turf Supervisor) / (Athletic Turf - Athletic Turf Supervisor) EMPLOYMENT BEGINS: As soon as possible PRIMARY PURPOSE: * To keep the district's grounds ...

Turf Specialist

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

The Sports Turf Specialist work to support the Grounds Department in general and the Athletic Field group specifically. Under the direction of the Sports Turf Manager, this position functions within ...

Groundskeeper - General Turf

Mesquite, TX

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Non-Exempt Reports To: (General Turf - General Turf Supervisor) / (Athletic Turf - Athletic Turf Supervisor) EMPLOYMENT BEGINS: As soon as possible PRIMARY PURPOSE: * To keep the district's grounds ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Athletic Turf information

See salary details

$11K

$49.9K

$77K

How much do athletic turf jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for athletic turf in the United States is $49,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in athletic turf management?

Professionals in athletic turf management often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal grass health under heavy usage, responding quickly to weather-related damage, and managing pest or weed invasions. Balancing the demands of multiple sports schedules while ensuring safe and aesthetically pleasing playing surfaces can be demanding and may require flexible hours. Effective communication and collaboration with coaches, facility managers, and grounds crew are essential to address changing priorities and ensure field readiness, especially during peak sports seasons.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Athletic Turf Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Athletic Turf Manager, you need expertise in turfgrass science, soil management, and irrigation, typically supported by a degree in turf management or horticulture. Familiarity with equipment such as mowers and aerators, as well as certifications like Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM), are commonly required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure safe and high-quality playing surfaces. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining athletic fields that meet safety standards and enhance athletic performance.

What are athletic turf specialists?

Athletic turf specialists are professionals responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of natural or synthetic grass surfaces used in sports fields and athletic facilities. Their work ensures that playing surfaces are safe, level, and suitable for athletic activities. Duties may include mowing, fertilizing, aerating, irrigating, and marking fields, as well as managing pest control and addressing drainage issues. They often work for schools, sports stadiums, parks, or landscaping companies. Their expertise helps to prolong the life of the turf and enhance the performance of athletes.

What is the difference between Athletic Turf vs Groundskeeper?

AspectAthletic TurfGroundskeeper
CertificationsCertified Athletic Field Manager (CAFM), pesticide licensesLandscape or pesticide licenses, general groundskeeping certifications
Work EnvironmentSports fields, stadiums, athletic complexesPublic parks, school grounds, commercial landscapes
Job FocusMaintaining sports surfaces for safety and performanceGeneral landscape maintenance and aesthetic upkeep
Employer & IndustrySports teams, universities, athletic facilitiesMunicipalities, schools, private estates

While both Athletic Turf and Groundskeeper roles involve landscape maintenance, Athletic Turf specialists focus specifically on sports surfaces, ensuring safety and optimal performance for athletic activities. Groundskeepers have a broader scope, maintaining various outdoor spaces for appearance and safety. Certifications and work environments differ accordingly, reflecting their specialized or generalist roles.

More about Athletic Turf jobs
What cities are hiring for Athletic Turf jobs? Cities with the most Athletic Turf job openings:
What states have the most Athletic Turf jobs? States with the most job openings for Athletic Turf jobs include:

Groundskeeper - Athletic Turf

Mesquite ISD

Mesquite, TX

$17 - $22.56/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Mesquite ISD - Compensation Plans

Auxiliary Compensation Plan

Pay Grade: $17.00-$22.56
Shift Type: Full-Time
Wage/Hour Status: Non-Exempt
Reports To: (General Turf - General Turf Supervisor) / (Athletic Turf - Athletic Turf Supervisor)
 




EMPLOYMENT BEGINS: As soon as possible 



PRIMARY PURPOSE:

  • To keep the district's grounds in such a condition that they are properly conserved and pleasing at all times.                   

QUALIFICATIONS: 
Education/Certification:

  • High School Diploma or GED        
  • Texas Driver's License with less that three (3) moving traffic violations within the past three (3) years

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS:

  • Demonstrate ability to complete tasks involving physical labor.
  • Exhibit physical and emotional ability to perform assigned tasks.
  • Tractors, mowers, edgers, weedeaters, air wrenches, grinders, chain hoists, various preventative maintenance tools, vehicle operation, hand tools (hoes, shovels, clippers, rakes, etc)      

EXPERIENCE:

  • None

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

  • Work on assigned grounds keeping tasks such as hoeing, digging, raking and loading.
  • Use lawn care tools and equipment such as edgers, mower and trimmer in a safe and proper manner.
  • Complete all work assigned as scheduled.
  • Participate as a team member to complete assigned tasks.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • None

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Mental Demands:

  • Comprehending simple instructions both written and verbal.

Physical demands/environmental factors:

  • Lifting in excess of 45 lbs.
  • Pushing, kneeling, stooping, crawling and working on uneven surfaces with some ladder climbing.
  • Corrected Vision and/or hearing are necessary for safety reasons, as well as the ability to distinguish colors and have good depth perception.
  • Constantly aware of immediate surroundings while working with grounds equipment.
  • Using both hands with balance and dexterity to operate equipment.
  • Trimming trees, light to heavy hauling, weed pulling, sand and soil spreading, and light machinery maintenance.
  • Working outside with excessive temperatures, high humidity, dust, air-born-materials, and other weather extremes.
  • Working in excessive heat/cold conditions; damp conditions.        
  • Exposure to gasses, fumes from cleaning solvents.        
  • Excessive noise in the work environment.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required.
Â