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Turf Manager Jobs in Erie, PA (NOW HIRING)

As a Residential Lawn Care Specialist, you'll be both a skilled technician and a turf whisperer ... Reliable time management and commitment to punctuality The Perks * Paid training and ongoing ...

As a Residential Lawn Care Specialist, you'll be both a skilled technician and a turf whisperer ... Reliable time management and commitment to punctuality The Perks * Paid training and ongoing ...

Turf Manager information

See Erie, PA salary details

$30.5K

$58.6K

$116.7K

How much do turf manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf manager in Erie, PA is $58,562.00, 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.

What job categories do people searching Turf Manager jobs in Erie, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Turf Manager jobs in Erie, PA are:

What cities near Erie, PA are hiring for Turf Manager jobs?

Cities near Erie, PA with the most Turf Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Turf Manager job openings in Erie, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,562 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Assistant Coach, Track and Field/Cross Country, Penn State Behrend

Penn State University

Erie, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a/an 91.7% full-time equivalency (FTE) job with months off. The number of months off will be determined by the position's FTE percentage. The timing of months off will be set to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to HR105 FTE positions should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This position is eligible for benefits associated with any full-time position. The salary grade and range listed in the posting is reflective of a 100% Full-time position. Full-time equivalency job offers may fall outside of the listed range due to the assigned percentage of effort.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State Behrend is currently seeking an Assistant Cross Country / Track and Field Coach to join our NCAA Division III athletics program. This is an outstanding opportunity for a coach who is passionate about developing student-athletes, recruiting talented students, and contributing to a positive, competitive team culture.
Working closely with the Head Coach, the Assistant Coach plays an integral role in all aspects of the cross country and track & field programs. Successful candidates will be committed to excellence, integrity, and the holistic development of student-athletes while supporting the mission of the University and Division III athletics.
Recruit Outstanding Student-Athletes
  • Identify, evaluate, and recruit prospective student-athletes who will thrive both academically and athletically.
  • Build relationships with prospective students, families, and coaches through phone calls, emails, campus visits, recruiting events, and off-campus competitions
  • Support recruiting strategies that strengthen and sustain a competitive program.

Coach and Develop Student-Athletes
  • Assist with planning and conducting practices, training sessions, and competitions.
  • Provide technical instruction, skill development, event-specific coaching, and performance feedback.
  • Prepare scouting reports and assist with meet strategy and competition preparation.

Assist with Program Operations
  • Coordinate team travel logistics and assist with transportation, lodging, and meals.
  • Manage the purchasing, inventory, maintenance, and storage of team equipment.
  • Help organize and administer home competitions and other program events.
  • Coordinate visiting team needs, including practice schedules, accommodations, and hospitality.
  • Compile and maintain team statistics and program records.

Grow the Program
  • Assist in planning and operating youth camps and clinics.
  • Build relationships with alumni, supporters, and the local community.
  • Support fundraising initiatives and external engagement efforts.

Compliance and Professional Expectations
The Assistant Coach is expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and ensure full compliance with all University, conference, and NCAA rules and regulations. The successful candidate will contribute to a culture of excellence while advancing the mission and values of the athletics department and the University.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum of 2 years coaching experience, preferably at the collegiate level

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Associate DegreeDiffers per sport; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This is an 11-month, 91.7% full-time equivalency (FTE) job. Month off is June. This is a full time position with Penn State benefits.
Please submit a cover letter and resume at the time of application. Review of materials will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Penn State Behrend's athletic facilities are expanding and updating to keep pace with the growth and success of our intercollegiate athletics programs. We have a lighted, artificial-turf field soccer and lacrosse complex, an eight-lane composite track with a separate area for field events in our track and field complex. Our baseball and softball complex has two fields, each with irrigation, in-ground dugouts, bullpens, and batting cages. Our Junker Center has three all-purpose courts, seating for 1,600, and eight-lane swimming pool, running track, jumping pits, aerobics room, and strength-training room. Penn State Behrend also sits on the edge of Wintergreen Gorge, an 11,00-year-old chasm that's a spectacular backdrop for a run or a hike. Or head north instead; a six-mile paved trail connects campus to Erie's downtown and lakefront. On-campus sand volleyball courts and multiple intramural fields are available for all students to use.
Penn State Behrend, is an undergraduate and graduate college of The Pennsylvania State University. Situated on a beautiful, wooded 854-acre hillside campus recognized as a U.S. arboretum, we have four academic schools (Business; Engineering; Humanities and Social Sciences; and, Science); student residential living; a range of research programs and outreach centers; and a highly successful business and technology park. With 5,000 students in resident instruction and online in college programs offered through Penn State World Campus, we uniquely blend the atmosphere and focus on teaching of a small college with access to the academic, research, and professional development resources of a Big 10, R1 University. Our college is an open laboratory of learning and discovery where students gain real-life experience engaging with business, industry, and community partners. We seek faculty members who share our commitment to both teaching and scholarship, to the holistic development of students, and to principles of respect and inclusiveness.
Erie, Pennsylvania is a metropolitan area of more than a quarter million people located on the southern shores of Lake Erie, two hours from Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Buffalo. The area's economy reflects a mix of educational, medical, industrial, tourism, and service activity; the region is home to five colleges and universities in the region, including Penn State Behrend. Northwestern Pennsylvania offers abundant cultural, sports, and recreational opportunities with four seasons of adventure. Summers feature miles of beaches, a range of lake sports, and festivals every weekend, and the winters are made for skiing, skating, and more. It's easy to get around, housing is affordable, and the cost of living is modest. Erie offers relaxed, comfortable living.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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