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Athletic Turf Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Maintains athletic turf and fields; operates mowers, tractors, field equipment, and automotive equipment. * Prepares and maintains athletic field layouts according to scheduled events. * Performs ...

Business Development Manager

Apopka, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

S. Markets | Nationwide Opportunities Company Overview TenCate is a leading provider of synthetic turf, sports surfacing, sports construction, and related athletic-facility solutions. Through our ...

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Athletic Turf information

See Florida salary details

$8.2K

$37.3K

$57.5K

How much do athletic turf jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for athletic turf in Florida is $37,282.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,900.00 and $41,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an athletic turf specialist?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an athletic turf manager?

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 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 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.

Is athletic turf management a good career?

Athletic turf management is a specialized field focused on maintaining sports fields and turf health, requiring knowledge of horticulture, irrigation, and pest control. It offers opportunities in sports facilities, parks, and golf courses, often involving physical work and seasonal schedules. Certification and experience can enhance job prospects in this growing industry.

What job categories do people searching Athletic Turf jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Athletic Turf jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Athletic Turf jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Athletic Turf job openings:

Infographic showing various Athletic Turf job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,282 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

ATHLETIC TURF MANAGER -FOOTBALL, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

Compass Group

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 1,089 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 492 rated business services


Job description

Position Title: ATHLETIC TURF MANAGER-FOOTBALL, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA, TAMPA , FL
SSC Services for Education is known for our expertise, commitment, and value; and we at SSC truly believe that our people are our greatest asset. By utilizing our associates' knowledge and experience alongside SSC's extensive training, providing supportive management, and offering unparalleled wage and benefit packages as well as career advancement opportunities, we have developed a workforce that differentiates us from our competitors.
SSC Services for Education is a Nationwide Best in Class Facility Service Provider. As a member of Compass Group, North America, we want you to be as great as you can be. We empower our associates to direct their own future, keeping them confident that we support them every step of the way. As a result, our associates embody greatness through their actions, natural passion for quality, and a can-do attitude. The opportunity for greatness is real at SSC and throughout the Compass world.
This position is eligible for an Employee Referral Bonus! If you know someone that is qualified for this role, please use the 'job search' in PeopleHub to refer your referral and email them a link to apply. Your referral will be able to apply by clicking the link in the email. You can check the status through your profile, accessible via Careers in PeopleHub, by clicking on 'referral tracking.' For Employee Referral guidelines, FAQs and the Compass Employee Referral Policy, email MyReferral@compass-usa.com.
Job Summary
Position requires minimal supervision and many times working alone both on campus(s) and when consulting off campus. Coordinate, supervise, and oversee all aspects of athletic field management that are included in scope of work as defined by contract - including being proactive in problem solving. Develops, oversees and implements budget and procurement process within established guidelines. Provide professional consultation or undertake lead role in athletic field / grounds renovation projects.
Primary Responsibilities
• Develop and implement schedules for the management of athletic fields, including; cultural management plan, set ups, stripping, after event field repairs.
• Maintain and conduct routine communication with Athletic Director(s) and Coach's.
• Develop and implement annual business plan including annual budget.
• Maintain financial records of all funds and labor expenses for department
• Procurement of all materials required to administer a proven management program using approved vendors and within approved protocol.
• Field(s) set up and take down. Ensure that fields meet all criteria as set forth by the governing body of rules including NFHS, NCAA or professional sport association.
• Assist in development and implementation plans for emergency response due to inclement weather i.e. snow and ice, hurricane, tornado or other catastrophes.
• Implement Standard Operating Procedures, follow all protocol and implement Quality Assurance plan.
• Implement training protocol for regulatory compliance, safety and technical needs. Document and record all training.
• Implement the use of an environmentally sound pest management program that includes Integrated Pest Management and Sustainable practices where reasonably applicable. Maintain impeccable records of all actions taken to manage identified pests/ abatement or application processes.
• Light maintenance and repair of equipment.
• Ensure performance of all work in a safe manner for the employee, subordinates, students and others that use the facilities.
• Maintain C.E.U.'s for certifications, attend regional, state or national training as requested by RVP Grounds
Management or Grounds Manager.
Requirements (actual demonstration of skills or documents may be required)
• Minimum of five years experience in managing high profile athletic fields.
• Minimum of a two year degree in Agronomy / Horticulture related field
• Good written (report writing) and oral communication (public speaking) skills.
• Efficient in Word, Excel, Power Point and/or other compatible programs.
• Ability to promote awareness to management program.
• Have or be able to demonstrate ability to obtain pesticide license within six months from hire in the following categories; core, turf, and ornamentals.
  • Have the ability to operate athletic field / grounds management related equipment.
  • Must be willing to fly and travel out of region for extended periods of time, and have the ability to work alone in unsupervised and/or unfamiliar environments.
  • Ability to work flexible and/or unscheduled hours.
  • Must provide five trade related and two personal references. .
  • Other certifications that will enhance candidate, Certified Sports Field Manager, Certified Turfgrass Professional, Certified Professional Grounds Manager, Certified Grounds Manager or other associated certifications.

Apply to SSC today!
SSC is a member of Compass Group USA.
Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story
Associates at SSC are offered many fantastic benefits.
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.
https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_SSC.pdf
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.
Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
SSC maintains a drug-free workplace.

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