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Turf Manager Jobs in Lombard, IL (NOW HIRING)

Tarkett Sports

Artificial Turf Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Join FieldTurf - the industry pioneer and trusted leader in synthetic turf solutions - as a Field ... Utilizing technology platforms including Outlook, Concur, and Field Service Lightning to manage ...

Tarkett

Artificial Turf Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

Join FieldTurf - the industry pioneer and trusted leader in synthetic turf solutions - as a Field ... Utilizing technology platforms including Outlook, Concur, and Field Service Lightning to manage ...

Tarkett

Artificial Turf Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

Join FieldTurf - the industry pioneer and trusted leader in synthetic turf solutions - as a Field ... Utilizing technology platforms including Outlook, Concur, and Field Service Lightning to manage ...

Tarkett

Artificial Turf Technician

Chicago, IL

Join FieldTurf - the industry pioneer and trusted leader in synthetic turf solutions - as a Field ... Utilizing technology platforms including Outlook, Concur, and Field Service Lightning to manage ...

Tarkett

Artificial Turf Technician

Chicago, IL

Join FieldTurf - the industry pioneer and trusted leader in synthetic turf solutions - as a Field ... Utilizing technology platforms including Outlook, Concur, and Field Service Lightning to manage ...

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All JobsTurf JobsTurf Manager JobsTurf Manager Jobs in Lombard, IL

Turf Manager information

See Lombard, IL salary details

$31K

$59.5K

$118.6K

How much do turf manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf manager in Lombard, IL is $59,483.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,300.00 and $60,500.00 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.
More about Turf Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Turf jobs in Lombard, IL?

The most popular types of Turf jobs in Lombard, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Turf Manager jobs in Lombard, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Turf Manager jobs in Lombard, IL are:

What cities near Lombard, IL are hiring for Turf Manager jobs?

Cities near Lombard, IL with the most Turf Manager job openings:

Turf Manager jobs near you

Turf & Grounds Manager | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University

AEG

Evanston, IL • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen.
Overview
The Turf & Grounds Manager is responsible for the maintenance, care, safety, and presentation of Ryan Field's playing surface, stadium field areas, and surrounding grounds. This position ensures the field is maintained to the highest standards for NCAA Division I football, concerts, and other special events. The Turf & Grounds Manager oversees turf maintenance, field markings and logos, infill management, field inspections, irrigation and drainage systems, field protection, and event-related field preparation. The position works closely with Northwestern Athletics, Event Management, Operations, Facilities, and event partners to ensure the field and surrounding grounds are safe, functional, and event-ready. This position requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours based on the athletic and event schedule.
This role pays an annual salary of $75,000 - $90,000.
Benefits for Full-Time roles: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching, and Paid Time Off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays).
This position will remain open until November 13, 2026.
Responsibilities
  • Oversee the daily and seasonal maintenance of Ryan Field's turf playing surface and surrounding grounds.
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive turf maintenance program, including routine grooming, cleaning, infill management, decompaction, and surface inspection.
  • Monitor turf performance, surface conditions, drainage, seams, infill levels, and other field components to identify maintenance or repair needs.
  • Coordinate regular testing and evaluation of the playing surface to ensure compliance with NCAA and applicable industry standards.
  • Manage field preparation for football games, concerts, commencement ceremonies, and other special events.
  • Coordinate field painting, striping, logos, graphics, and other field markings.
  • Oversee the installation, use, and removal of field protection systems, temporary flooring, and other event-related materials.
  • Develop procedures to minimize damage and maintain the integrity of the turf during event conversions.
  • Inspect the field before and after events and document any damage or required repairs.
  • Manage maintenance of stadium grounds, landscaped areas, walkways, plazas, and other exterior areas surrounding the venue.
  • Oversee irrigation and drainage systems serving the field and surrounding grounds.
  • Maintain and manage turf and grounds equipment, tools, vehicles, and supplies.
  • Develop preventative maintenance schedules for field and grounds equipment.
  • Manage, train, and schedule full-time, part-time, seasonal, and contract grounds personnel as applicable.
  • Manage inventory of turf materials, infill, paint, field supplies, equipment, and replacement components.
  • Coordinate with contractors and vendors performing specialized turf, field, irrigation, drainage, or grounds services.
  • Assist with snow and ice removal and severe weather preparation and response as needed.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations, environmental requirements, NCAA standards, university policies, and Oak View Group procedures.
  • Maintain accurate records related to field inspections, maintenance activities, repairs, testing, inventory, and equipment.
  • Develop and manage departmental budgets and assist with purchasing and vendor management.
  • Collaborate with the Director of Facilities and Director of Operations to ensure the field and grounds are fully prepared for scheduled events.
  • Operate turf and grounds maintenance equipment and vehicles.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Turfgrass Management, Sports Turf Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 3-5 years of experience maintaining athletic fields, sports turf, stadium grounds, or similar facilities.
  • Demonstrated experience maintaining athletic turf systems.
  • Knowledge of turf maintenance, infill management, field testing, drainage, and field protection systems.
  • Experience operating and maintaining turf and grounds equipment.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, event-driven environment.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) designation.
  • Experience supporting NCAA Division I athletics, professional sports, or major stadiums.
  • Experience with turf systems used for football or other high-level athletic competition.
  • Experience managing field conversions for concerts and large-scale special events.
  • Knowledge of NCAA field requirements and applicable turf testing standards.
  • Illinois Pesticide Applicator License, where applicable.
  • Experience managing contractors, vendors, budgets, and seasonal staff.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and perform repetitive physical tasks.
  • Ability to lift and carry heavy objects. Heavier items with assistance.
  • Ability to operate turf and grounds maintenance equipment and vehicles.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow.
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours based on event schedules.
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About AEG

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1992

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