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Athletic Turf Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Louisiana State University

$11.75 - $15/hr

... Athletic Department. Please include Driver's License on application. 30% Operation of various pieces of mowing andgrounds maintenance equipmentsuch as diesel powered lawn mowers, turf vacuums ...

Louisiana Workforce Commission

$11.75 - $15/hr

... Athletic Department. Please include Driver's License on application. 30% Operation of various pieces of mowing andgrounds maintenance equipmentsuch as diesel powered lawn mowers, turf vacuums ...

LSU AgCenter

$11.75 - $15/hr

... Athletic Department. Please include Driver's License on application. 30% Operation of various pieces of mowing andgrounds maintenance equipmentsuch as diesel powered lawn mowers, turf vacuums ...

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All JobsAthletic Turf JobsAthletic Turf Jobs in Tennessee

Athletic Turf information

See Tennessee salary details

$10K

$45.3K

$69.9K

How much do athletic turf jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for athletic turf in Tennessee is $45,281.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,300.00 and $50,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Athletic Turf jobs in Tennessee?

For Athletic Turf jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Athletic Turf jobs near you
Infographic showing various Athletic Turf job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,281 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Coordinator, Athletic Turf Grounds

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

University Of Memphis rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Coordinates administrative and/or operational functions of an organizational unit under the supervision of a manager or director. May supervise and/or provide guidance to employees or be responsible for the management of programs, initiatives or events.

This is a re-advertisement with modifications. The posting has an initial screening date of August 20, 2026, and each Thursday thereafter until filled.

The University of Memphis is a leading, student-centered, urban public R1 research institution. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, on 1,160 acres. The University serves a population of nearly 20,000 students and 2,500 employees, including more than 1,000 full-time faculty members. The University offers bachelor's degrees in more than 230 areas of study, master's degrees in more than 50 subjects and doctoral degrees in 26 disciplines; supported an institutional record of more than $100 million in research awards for FY24; and has an operating budget of close to $500 million.

Associate's degree (or two years of college) and one (1) year in grounds and turf maintenance with progressive experience OR two (2) years of experience as a Landscape Worker I at the University of Memphis, and the successful completion of all required Landscape Worker II - Athletics training.

Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. 

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

  • Works collaboratively in the coordination of planning, supervising, and executing the maintenance of athletic fields (natural grass and synthetic surfaces): Assists in direction of preparation planning, and maintenance of all facilities for practices, athletics events and games. Coordinates and assists in making sure the layout and painting of athletic fields meet proper NCAA regulations. 
     
  • Assist equipment operators on the operation and care of mowing and other equipment and/or operates mowing and other equipment; supervises chemical mixtures, applications and/or calibrates chemical operation equipment; supervises and participates in the operation and maintenance of water pumps, and the maintenance of irrigation and drainage systems including: Assist in the oversight and upkeep of turf maintenance equipment; Assist in the oversight and maintenance of all common ground areas (including trash removal and debris); assists in keeping a well-organized and clean shop/storage area(s)' Supervises and assists in coordination of small groups in various renovation projects.
     
  • Assists in game day maintenance operations that include field preparations and postgame repairs/cleanup, including: Understand NCAA game regulations for baseball, softball and soccer; Regularly attend and work numerous NCAA athletic games, including on nights and weekends, to ensure competition can be completed as scheduled. Serve as liaison on behalf of the Athletic Department in the absence of the Director. 
  • Other duties as assigned.
     

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