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Turf Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sports Turf Manager

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The Sports Turf Manager is responsible for the daily maintenance, preparation, and overall quality of all athletic fields. This role ensures that fields are safe, visually appealing, and game-ready ...

Sports Turf Foreman

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$44K - $71K/yr

Turfgrass Management, Soil Sciences/Agronomy, Horticulture, Sports Turf Management or closely related field Certification(s) Required: Class 3 Turf and Ornamental Pesticide Applicator's License.

Sports Turf Manager

Dinwiddie, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The Sports Turf Manager is responsible for the daily maintenance, preparation, and overall quality of all athletic fields. This role ensures that fields are safe, visually appealing, and game-ready ...

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Turf Manager information

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$31.5K

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How much do turf manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf manager in the United States is $60,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Turf Manager vs Groundskeeper?

AspectTurf ManagerGroundskeeper
CertificationsCertified Turfgrass Professional, pesticide licensesNone typically required, some may have pesticide licenses
Work EnvironmentGolf courses, sports fields, large landscapesPublic parks, school grounds, sports fields
ResponsibilitiesOversees turf health, manages staff, plans maintenanceMaintains grounds, mows, trims, basic landscaping
Industry UsageCommon in golf courses, sports complexesFound in municipal parks, schools, small sports facilities

The Turf Manager typically has specialized certifications and oversees large-scale turf operations, focusing on turf health and staff management. Groundskeepers perform routine grounds maintenance with less specialization, often working in smaller or municipal settings. While both roles involve turf and landscape care, Turf Managers hold more advanced credentials and responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges Turf Managers face when maintaining sports fields or golf courses, and how are they addressed?

Turf Managers often contend with challenges such as weather variability, pest infestations, and heavy foot traffic, all of which can impact turf health and appearance. To address these, managers use a combination of strategic irrigation, integrated pest management, and regular aeration and overseeding practices. Collaboration with grounds crews and facility managers is also crucial to coordinate maintenance schedules and respond quickly to issues. Staying current with advancements in turfgrass science and technology helps Turf Managers implement the most effective solutions and maintain high-quality playing surfaces.

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

To thrive as a Turf Manager, you need expertise in turfgrass science, soil management, pest control, and a background in horticulture or agronomy, often supported by relevant certifications such as Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM). Familiarity with irrigation systems, turf maintenance equipment, and turf management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help manage teams and interact with stakeholders effectively. These skills are crucial for maintaining healthy, high-quality turf surfaces that meet safety and aesthetic standards for sports fields, golf courses, or other managed landscapes.

How much money does a turf manager make?

A turf manager typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the facility. Advanced certifications and skills in turf maintenance and landscaping can lead to higher salaries.

How much do NFL turf managers make?

NFL turf managers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and team size. They are responsible for maintaining high-quality playing surfaces, often working during evenings and weekends, and may require specialized knowledge of turf management and equipment.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as top executives (CEOs, CFOs), specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain senior management positions in large corporations, highly experienced professionals in finance or law, and successful business owners often reach this income level, especially with bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

What Is a Turf Manager?

A turf manager maintains the turf used on a golf course or sporting field. As a turf manager, your responsibilities are to repair damage, restore the field, regulate pest control, and create a safe space for athletes to play. Other duties include creating a schedule for field use and overseeing a maintenance crew, as well as determining if any changes must be made to the field. In this role, you also mow, aerate, top dress, irrigate, and fertilize the turf. Turf management requires a love for and knowledge of the sport you are supporting.

What does a Turf Manager do?

A Turf Manager is responsible for the maintenance and care of grass surfaces, such as those found on golf courses, sports fields, parks, and other landscaped areas. Their duties include mowing, fertilizing, irrigating, and controlling pests and weeds to ensure healthy and aesthetically pleasing turf. Turf Managers also manage staff, oversee equipment maintenance, and often develop management plans to keep the turf in optimal condition year-round. They may also be involved in budgeting and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Is there money in turf management?

Turf management can be a financially rewarding career, especially for experienced professionals working in golf courses, sports fields, or landscape companies. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and certifications, with entry-level positions typically paying lower than specialized or managerial roles. Skilled turf managers who oversee large or high-profile properties often earn higher wages and may have opportunities for advancement.
What cities are hiring for Turf Manager jobs? Cities with the most Turf Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Turf jobs? The most popular types of Turf jobs are:
What states have the most Turf Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Turf Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Turf Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,445 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Sports Turf Manager

Sports Turf Manager

ABM Industries, Inc.

Petersburg, VA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


ABM Industries rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 399 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 210 rated facilities management


Job description


The Sports Turf Manager is responsible for the daily maintenance, preparation, and overall quality of all athletic fields. This role ensures that fields are safe, visually appealing, and game-ready for all scheduled practices and events. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong organizational skills, the ability to manage a grounds crew, and a commitment to maintaining high-performance playing surfaces.
Compensation: $21-$23/hour
The pay listed is the salary range for this position. Any specific offer will vary based on the successful applicant's education, experience, skills, abilities, geographic location, and alignment with market data. You may be eligible to participate in a Company incentive or bonus program
Benefits: ABM offers a comprehensive benefits package. For information about ABM's benefits, visit ABM Team Member Benefits | Staff & Management
Petersburg, VA (Onsite - Virginia State University)
Standard schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Flexibility required for weekends, game days, and seasonal schedule adjustments (including potential 4x10 shifts)
Responsibilities
  • Oversee the maintenance and preparation of all athletic fields, including football, soccer, baseball, softball, and lacrosse
  • Mow all sports fields at least twice per week, maintaining a consistent height of 2-2.5 inches or lower
  • Maintain clean, defined edges on baseball and softball fields
  • Control field "lips" by regularly brushing to ensure smooth transitions between turf and infield dirt
  • Drag infields and warning tracks at least once per week (or more frequently based on field usage)
  • Prepare game-ready fields by painting lines for practices and events; repaint weekly during active seasons
  • Repair and maintain pitching mounds, batter's boxes, and high-wear areas as needed
  • Apply seed, fertilizer, and treatments according to label instructions and best practices
  • Monitor and manage weed control across all fields
  • Coordinate field preparation with VSU and Dinwiddie County athletic schedules to ensure readiness for all events
  • Perform routine turf maintenance, including upkeep based on field usage cycles (every 40-60 hours of play)
  • Assist with seasonal duties such as snow removal

Qualifications
  • Previous experience in landscaping, groundskeeping, or turf management
  • Proven leadership or supervisory experience (or strong demonstrated leadership potential)
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Availability to work occasional weekends and extended hours based on athletic schedules
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Valid driver's license (MVR required) and ability to pass background screening

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience maintaining athletic or sports turf fields
  • Knowledge of turfgrass maintenance practices, including mowing, fertilization, and field preparation
  • Familiarity with sports field layout and requirements for multiple sports
  • Experience operating landscaping or turf maintenance equipment

About Us
ABM (NYSE: ABM) is one of the world's largest providers of integrated facility, engineering, and infrastructure solutions. Every day, our over 100,000 team members deliver essential services that make spaces cleaner, safer, and efficient, enhancing the overall occupant experience.
ABM serves a wide range of market sectors including commercial real estate, aviation, education, mission critical, and manufacturing and distribution. With over $8 billion in annual revenue and a blue-chip client base, ABM delivers innovative technologies and sustainable solutions that enhance facilities and empower clients to achieve their goals. Committed to creating smarter, more connected spaces, ABM is investing in the future to meet evolving challenges and build a healthier, thriving world. ABM: Driving possibility, together.
ABM is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that does not discriminate on the basis of any trait or characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, including disability and protected veteran status. ABM is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in completing the employment application, please call 888-328-8606. We will provide you with assistance and make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
ABM participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. E-Verify is an internet-based system used to electronically confirm employment eligibility.
ABM is a military-friendly company proudly employing thousands of men and women who have served in the U.S. military. With ABM, you'll have access to a world-class training program and ample opportunities to use the skills you developed while serving our country. Whether you're looking for a frontline or professional position, you can find post-military career opportunities across ABM.
ABM directs all applicants to apply at www.abm.com/careers. ABM does not accept unsolicited resumes or submissions outside of this portal. Applicants should submit their application by clicking Apply Now.
For more information, visit www.abm.com

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