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Sports Turf Manager Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Purdue University

Sports Turf Technician

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Sports Turf Technician City: West Lafayette Job Summary Responsible for assisting in the ... Occasionally manage and/or supervise grounds maintenance crews with field preparations. Coordinate ...

University of Indianapolis

Groundskeeper

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Fertilization and pesticide applications to turf and ornamental areas. * Set up for sports events ... Must adhere to all safety standards and work practices established by the Facilities Management ...

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See Indiana salary details

$30K

$57.5K

$114.7K

How much do sports turf manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports turf manager in Indiana is $57,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,700.00 and $58,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports turf manager?

A Sports Turf Manager is responsible for maintaining and managing the playing surfaces of sports fields, stadiums, and recreational facilities. They ensure the turf is safe, aesthetically pleasing, and suitable for gameplay by overseeing mowing, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and field repairs. They may also manage budgets, staff, and equipment to achieve optimal field conditions. Their expertise in turfgrass science and soil management helps prevent injuries and enhances athletic performance.

What are some typical challenges a sports turf manager faces during the sports season?

Sports Turf Managers often face challenges such as maintaining optimal playing conditions under heavy use, adapting to unpredictable weather, and managing tight event schedules. You may need to repair damaged turf quickly between games and adjust maintenance plans based on team practices or tournaments. Effective communication with coaches and event organizers is essential to coordinate field access and ensure both player safety and field longevity. The ability to prioritize tasks and implement creative solutions helps you meet the demands of a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports turf manager?

To thrive as a Sports Turf Manager, you need expertise in turfgrass science, soil management, pest and disease control, and field renovation, often backed by a degree in turf management or a related field. Familiarity with irrigation systems, industry-standard equipment, and certifications such as Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) are highly valued. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities will help you coordinate teams and collaborate with coaches or facility managers. These skills ensure high-quality, safe playing surfaces that meet user expectations and withstand rigorous sports schedules.

Is sports turf management a good career?

Sports turf management is a specialized field involving the maintenance of athletic fields, requiring knowledge of horticulture, soil science, and equipment operation. It offers opportunities in sports facilities, golf courses, and parks, often requiring certifications and physical work. The career can be stable and rewarding for those interested in outdoor work and turf science.

What are popular job titles related to Sports Turf Manager jobs in Indiana?

For Sports Turf Manager jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sports Turf Manager jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Sports Turf Manager jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Sports Turf Manager jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Sports Turf Manager job openings:

Sports Turf Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Turf Manager job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,518 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Sports Turf Technician

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the maintenance and operations of athletic fields and surrounding grounds.

  • Formulate and implement turfgrass maintenance schedules, manage chemical and fertilizer applications, and troubleshoot turf equipment issues.

  • Oversee and manage grounds maintenance crews, coordinate field preparations, and assist with game day operations.

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 629 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Sports Turf Technician
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Responsible for assisting in the maintenance and operations of all Purdue University Intercollegiate Athletic fields and surrounding grounds areas.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Formulate and implement proper turfgrass maintenance schedules and management practices, to include recognizing, identifying and treating turfgrass insects and diseases that could damage the quality of athletic turf. Responsible for application of fertilizer and chemicals for athletic facility sites. Formulate fertilizers and chemical spread formulas used in turfgrass maintenance. Assist with game day operations for all outdoor athletic events. Assist Sports Turf Crew Chief with special projects. Work under the supervision of the Sports Turf Crew Chief.
  • Assist in creating annual maintenance & fertility weekly duties calendars, then independently follows them throughout the year to promote, monitor and maintain health of assigned areas. Work independently on special projects assigned by Sports Turf Crew Chief.
  • Occasionally manage and/or supervise grounds maintenance crews with field preparations. Coordinate painting/fertilizing and cultural practices for all game and practice fields. Assign and manage crews responsible for aerifying, topdressing and sod work. Paint lines and logos for sporting events and can troubleshoot issues. Oversee multiple assigned student employees.
  • Use of a variety of specialized machinery, including boom sprayer, reel mowers, utility tractor, skid steer, topdressors, seeders, paint lining equipment and irrigation systems. Use turf equipment and irrigation systems and can troubleshoot issues. Follow all safety policies and procedures.
  • Maintain working inventory of all materials used; accurate allocation of chemicals in keeping with EPA standards; ensures proper inventory records to plan for purchase of chemicals, fertilizers, paint and maintenance supplies. Keep detailed history of turf maintenance, chemical/fertility logs, paint logs for historical reference or review of BMPs.
  • Respond to coaches needs and advise to ensure accuracy and understanding of all details. Make recommendations for improvement. Develop turfgrass maintenance tools applicable to the sport program area(s). Maintain awareness of current and emerging technologies related to field maintenance and communication. Relay sport program information and explain processes correctly to coaches, administrators and staff. Work closely with coaching staffs and other athletic department staff members for practices and events.

About Us:
Purdue Athletics is built on unrivaled pride, unlimited potential, and a sense of shared purpose that unites staff, student-athletes, and the broader community. As part of Purdue's 150-year legacy, Athletics exemplifies a culture of collaboration, continuous growth, and excellence, where every member is encouraged to strive for success while fostering a positive and supportive environment. Joining Purdue Athletics means joining a team committed to building a better world together-where professional aspirations thrive, innovation is celebrated, and a lasting impact is made on campus and beyond. Read more: Purdue Boilermakers Athletics
What We're Looking For:
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma/GED.
  • Two or four-year degree in turf science or related field preferred.
  • Three years of sports turf experience required.

Skills needed:
  • Preferably, will have a two or four year degree in turf science or related field and possess three or more years of sports turf experience
  • Must have obtained Category 3B pesticide license
  • Routinely demonstrate organizational and time management skills to meet strict deadlines
  • Ability to communicate and adhere to OSHA, University, Big Ten Conference, and NCAA policies, procedures, rules, and regulations is necessary
  • Must participate in continuing education opportunities such as seminars, workshops, correspondence courses and trade shows
  • Maintains an awareness of current and new technologies, procedures, products that could improve the quality of athletic fields
  • Perform other duties, as assigned.
  • HEAVY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Lift and carry 50 to 80 lbs. frequently, and up to 100+ lbs.

Who We Are:
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Additional Information:
  • Purdue's benefits summary https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible For Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan

Career Stream
Compensation Information:
Administrative and Operational Support 2
Pay Band S040
Job Code#20003768
Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
EOE
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university

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