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Turf Manager Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

ClubCorp

Greenskeeper

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

This role involves performing a range of tasks related to turf management, including mowing, fertilizing, and irrigation, as well as managing landscape areas around the course. The Greenskeeper ...

Invited

Greenskeeper

Riverwoods, IL

$14.50 - $19/hr

This role involves performing a range of tasks related to turf management, including mowing, fertilizing, and irrigation, as well as managing landscape areas around the course. The Greenskeeper ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsTurf JobsTurf Manager JobsTurf Manager Jobs in Elgin, IL

Turf Manager information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$31.1K

$59.8K

$119.1K

How much do turf manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf manager in Elgin, IL is $59,751.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $60,800.00 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.

Is turf management a good career?

Turf management is a viable career that involves maintaining sports fields, golf courses, and landscapes, requiring knowledge of horticulture, soil science, and pest control. It offers opportunities for employment in recreational, athletic, and landscaping industries, often requiring certifications and physical work outdoors. The field can provide steady employment and the chance to work in environmentally focused settings.

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.
More about Turf Manager jobs
What job categories do people searching Turf Manager jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Turf Manager jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Turf Manager jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Turf Manager job openings:
Turf Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turf Manager job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,751 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Assistant Golf Superintendent

Naperville Park District

Naperville, IL • On-site

$22.11 - $27.63/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Naperville Park District rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 842 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Overview:Under the direct supervision of the Superintendent of Golf Grounds, the Assistant Golf Superintendent performs the daily maintenance of all aspects of the golf facility, supervises the activities of the part time maintenance staff, and collaborates with the Superintendent of Golf Grounds in the daily operation of the golf course.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Collaborate with the Superintendent of Golf Grounds in planning, scheduling, and supervising the maintenance of the golf course to industry standards.Coordinate and provide support of daily golf course presentation including mowing of turf areas, raking of bunkers, course set up, and other related tasks as needed to provide patrons with quality course conditions.Supervise and participate in the operation and maintenance of the golf course irrigation and drainage systems.Inspect golf facilities and property for safety and cleanliness. Evaluate, determine, and prioritize necessary repairs and maintenance.Operate and maintain equipment. Clean and organize work and storage areas.Perform administrative duties including inventory, budget, reporting, and daily record keeping.Apply pesticides for control of weeds, insects, and fungal disease problems as needed.Manage work of others, including planning, assigning, scheduling, and reviewing work, ensuring quality standards. Assists with the hiring, disciplining, training, developing, and reviewing performance for part time staff. Other Duties and Responsibilities:Under the supervision of the Vehicle & Equipment Technician, perform minor maintenance and repair of golf equipment and carts.Assist in the general maintenance and/or repairs of golf course equipment as assigned by the Director of Golf.Other duties as assigned.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Working knowledge of generally accepted maintenance practices for golf course playing surfaces. This includes the planting, cultivation, pruning, and general care of a variety of plant materials, the characteristics and proper use of various fertilizers, plant protectants, herbicides, and other pest control methods and materials, and drainage control methods for irrigation systems such as wells, pumps, and automated controls.Basic understanding of the game of golf and how it relates to the set up and playing conditions of the golf course.Ability to schedule and supervise maintenance activities to achieve the most efficient and effective utilization of labor and equipment. Ability to maintain effective employee and public relations.Ability to operate equipment including but not limited to tractors, trucks, and mowing equipment.Basic understanding and ability to use Microsoft platform.Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred.Education and Experience:Certificate or Associate's degree in Turf Management or related field.Minimum one (1) year of experience in turf and/or green industry related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Valid driver's license.Possession, or the ability to obtain, State of Illinois pesticide operator or applicators license within six (6) months of hire.Special Considerations:Subject to both office and outside environmental conditions.Exposure to pesticides, chemicals, dust, exhaust fumes, dirt, noise, insect bites, and loud noises.Ability to lift, carry, and/or move objects weighing ≤ 50 lbs on a weekly basis. Lifting assistance is required when lifting > 50 lbs.Prolonged lifting, stooping, bending, twisting, standing, and climbing.Manual dexterity and strength to operate power-operated equipment and machines.Subject to modified/flexible work schedules.Regular onsite attendance is an essential function of this position. Ability to travel to and work at all Naperville Park District facilities. Benefitshttps://npd.sharefile.com/public/share/web-s751fcade1b1746168ccfaafaf8bf98bd Hiring Rate: $22.11/hr - $27.63/hr  To be considered for this position, interested individuals must complete the online application accessible atwww.napervilleparks.org/employment. Materials submitted through mail, email, or fax will not be considered

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