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Turf Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Tencate Grass

Business Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Markets | Nationwide Opportunities Company Overview TenCate is a leading provider of synthetic turf ... This role manages relationships throughout the sales and project-development lifecycle and works ...

Tencate Grass

Business Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Markets | Nationwide OpportunitiesCompany Overview TenCate is a leading provider of synthetic turf ... This role manages relationships throughout the sales and project-development lifecycle and works ...

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All JobsTurf JobsTurf Manager JobsTurf Manager Jobs in Illinois

Turf Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$30.5K

$58.6K

$116.8K

How much do turf manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf manager in Illinois is $58,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $59,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

How much does a turf manager make?

A turf manager's average salary ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the size of the facility. Advanced certifications and skills in turf management can lead to higher compensation. Many turf managers also work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, to maintain sports fields, golf courses, or landscaping projects.

Is turf management a good career?

Turf management is a viable career for individuals interested in maintaining sports fields, golf courses, and landscapes, often requiring knowledge of horticulture, soil science, and pest control. The profession offers opportunities for advancement and specialization, with some positions requiring certifications or degrees. It can involve physical work outdoors and irregular hours depending on the season and project needs.
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Turf Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turf Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $58,573 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Turf Technician - Jerseyville

SYDENSTRICKER NOBBE PARTNERS

Jerseyville, IL • On-site

$14 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

  • Independently performs complex diagnostics, service repairs and maintenance work on customer and/or dealer-owned agricultural and turf equipment.
  • May require some direction or guidance from the Service Manager, Service Location Manager, or Shop Foreman.
  • Performs diagnostics and repairs on John Deere equipment and technology.
  • Mentors Service Technician Trainees and Service Technicians.
  • Conducts or supports customer clinics.
  • Performs diagnostics and repairs in the field as required.
  • Accountable for billable time and assigned work orders.
  • Responsible for complete and thorough documentation of diagnostics and repairs performed on work orders and on time submittal of information.
  • May participate in Service EDUCATE Training programs required for the development of skills and knowledge.
  • Operates and maintains vehicles, tools and equipment required to perform job responsibilities.
  • Maintains a clean work area and performs work in a neat and orderly fashion.
  • Follows all safety rules and regulations in performing work assignments.
  • Maintains current knowledge of John Deere and competitive products.

Experience, Education, Skills and Knowledge:

  • Experience performing service repairs; demonstrated experience consistently meeting performance metrics preferred
  • Experience performing repairs and maintenance using special tools and equipment following Technical Manual procedures on machines of the Technicians specialty
  • Experience with the mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems used in off road, construction, lawn, or heavy equipment
  • Experience operating vehicles, tools, and equipment for diagnostic purposes
  • Experience with basic computer functions; experience using Service ADVISOR or other computer based diagnostic repair tools preferred
  • Experience working cooperatively in a team environment
  • Experience communicating effectively verbally and in writing
  • Must have an adequate toolset to perform job responsibilities
  • High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience required; Associate degree preferred
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL (Commercial Driver's License) preferred

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