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Turf Manager Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Groundskeeper

Rochester, MN · On-site

$20.87 - $27.33/hr

Previous experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, turf management, athletic field or sports facility maintenance, or institutional/commercial property maintenance. * Experience operating riding ...

Turf Manager information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$32K

$61.4K

$122.5K

How much do turf manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf manager in Rochester, MN is $61,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $62,500.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Turf Manager jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Turf Manager jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Turf Manager jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Turf Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Turf Manager job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,434 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

$20.87 - $27.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


State Of Minnesota rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 175 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Details
Working Title: Groundskeeper
Job Class: Groundskeeper
Agency: Minnesota State
  • Job ID: 96687
  • Location: Rochester
  • Telework Eligible: No
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 08/27/2026
  • Closing Date: 09/11/2026
  • Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: MN St Colleges & Universities / Rochester CC-AFSCME
  • Division/Unit: MnSCU Rochester CC / MnSCU Rochester CC AFSCME/B
  • Appointment Type: Unlimited
  • Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
  • Days of Work: Monday - Friday
  • Travel Required: No
  • Salary Range: $20.87 - $27.33 / hourly; $43,576 - $57,065 / annually
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit/Union: 203 - Service/AFSCME
  • Work Area: RCTC
  • FLSA Status: Nonexempt
  • Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes

The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary
POSITION PURPOSE
This position is responsible for maintaining, preparing, and caring for Rochester Community and Technical College grounds, athletic fields, lawns, landscaped areas, sidewalks, parking lots, driveways, roads, and other exterior areas. The position performs routine groundskeeping and landscape maintenance, snow and ice removal, operation and maintenance of grounds equipment, and general exterior facility maintenance. The position helps ensure that College grounds and athletic facilities are safe, clean, functional, and attractive for students, employees, visitors, athletic participants, and the public.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Basic horticultural techniques and practices, including planting, pruning, watering, fertilizing, seeding, sodding, and general lawn and garden care.
  • Methods of lawn, landscape, and athletic field maintenance.
  • Operation and routine maintenance of motorized groundskeeping equipment and hand tools.
  • Basic construction and repair methods sufficient to construct or repair simple structures and grounds features.
  • Methods and equipment used for snow and ice removal.
  • Safe work practices related to groundskeeping, equipment operation, outdoor work, and use of tools and machinery.
  • Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, turf management, athletic field or sports facility maintenance, or institutional/commercial property maintenance.
  • Experience operating riding mowers, tractors, loaders, snow removal equipment, utility vehicles, or similar equipment.
  • Experience performing routine preventive maintenance and minor repairs on groundskeeping equipment.
  • Experience with irrigation systems and related grounds maintenance.
  • Good human relations skills, work habits, and self-motivation.

Application Details
How to Apply
To view the full job posting and to apply please go to: https://minnstate.wd115.myworkdayjobs.com/Minnesota_State_Careers/job/Rochester/Groundskeeper_JR0000005634
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Haley Lenway at haley.lenway@rctc.edu or 507-285-7563 .
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Haley Lenway at haley.lenway@rctc.edu .
About RCTC
RCTC is a member of Minnesota State- a higher education system that includes 24 two-year community and technical colleges and seven state universities serving more than 430,000 students. It is the fifth-largest higher education system of its kind in the United States.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • 12 paid holidays each year
  • Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
  • 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
  • Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
  • Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
  • Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
  • Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:
  • Training, classes, and professional development
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:
  • A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
  • Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
  • Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
Other Information
Employment information for this position can be found in its collective bargaining agreement or its plan document at http://mn.gov/mmb/employee-relations/labor-relations/Labor/ .
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State is an equal opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.

What State Of Minnesota employees say

Pay

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About State of Minnesota

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Minnesota State Demographic Center (SDC), part of the Minnesota Department of Administration, is the main provider of demographic data and analysis for the state of Minnesota. The SDC assists policymakers, state and local governments, businesses, nonprofits, the media, and all Minnesotans locate and understand the demographic data they need to make smart decisions.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1967

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