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Turf Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Purdue University

Sports Turf Technician

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Two or four-year degree in turf science or related field preferred. * Three years of sports turf experience required. Skills needed: * Preferably, will have a two or four year degree in turf science ...

Pacific Sports Turf, Inc.

Be Seen First

Equipment Operator - Sports Turf Maintenance Specialist

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Pacific Sports Turf Inc. is looking for a well-qualified turf enthusiast to join our team. The ... We master the science and art of irrigating, fertilizing, aerating, seeding, top-dressing, soil ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Osterville, MA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Bethel, CT · On-site

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Ashland, MA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Seekonk, MA

$25 - $35/hr

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Osterville, MA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Ashland, MA · On-site

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Bethel, CT · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Turf Care Specialist

Seekonk, MA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development. We are currently seeking a Turf Care Specialist to work in our growing ...

BrightView

Spray Tech - Big Cypress

The Villages, FL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Post-secondary education in turf science or a related field * Must obtain and maintain a state-sanctioned pesticide applicator license within 6 months of entry into this job * Maintain a valid Driver ...

BrightView

Spray Tech (Double Palm)

The Villages, FL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Post-secondary education in turf science or a related field * Must obtain and maintain a state-sanctioned pesticide applicator license within 6 months of entry into this job * Maintain a valid Driver ...

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Turf Science information

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$31.5K

$60.4K

$120.5K

How much do turf science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf science in the United States is $60,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is turf science?

Turf Science is the study and management of grasses and related plants used for lawns, sports fields, golf courses, parks, and other landscapes. It involves understanding plant physiology, soil science, pest management, and environmental impacts to maintain healthy, resilient turf. Professionals in turf science work to develop sustainable practices for turfgrass establishment, maintenance, and repair, ensuring safe and attractive green spaces for recreation and aesthetics.

What are some common challenges turf science professionals face when managing sports fields or golf courses?

Turf Science professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing optimal turf health with heavy usage, managing pest and disease outbreaks, and adapting to changing weather patterns. They must also stay current with environmental regulations and ensure sustainable use of water and fertilizers. Collaboration with grounds crews, facility managers, and sometimes local authorities is essential to maintain playing surfaces that meet both safety and aesthetic standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a turf scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Turf Scientist, you need a solid background in plant science, soil science, and turf management, usually supported by a degree in turfgrass science or agronomy. Familiarity with tools like soil analysis kits, irrigation systems, and turf management software, as well as certifications such as Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM), is highly valuable. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you address turf challenges and collaborate with stakeholders. These competencies ensure optimal turf health, sustainability, and safety in sports, recreational, and commercial landscapes.

What is the difference between Turf Science vs Turf Management?

AspectTurf ScienceTurf Management
Education & CertificationsTypically requires a degree in turf science, agronomy, or related fields; certifications in turf management are commonOften requires a degree or diploma in turf management, horticulture, or related areas; certifications like GCSAA are beneficial
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, product development, and testing facilitiesGolf courses, sports fields, parks, and landscape maintenance sites
Primary FocusResearch, development, and scientific study of turfgrass biology and soil healthPractical application of turfgrass maintenance, mowing, fertilization, and pest control

While Turf Science focuses on research and development of turfgrass and soil health, Turf Management emphasizes the practical maintenance and care of turf in various settings. Both roles require related education and certifications but serve different aspects of the turf industry.

How much do turf science scientists make?

Turf science scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in soil analysis, plant physiology, or environmental management can earn higher salaries, especially with certifications or advanced degrees.

What jobs can you get with a turf science degree?

A turf science degree prepares individuals for careers such as turf manager, golf course superintendent, sports field manager, or grounds maintenance supervisor. These roles involve managing turf health, soil science, pest control, and using equipment like aerators and sprayers, often requiring knowledge of environmental conditions and certification in pesticide application.
More about Turf Science jobs

What states have the most Turf Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Turf Science jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Turf Science jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Turf Science jobs are:

Turf Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turf Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,445 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Sports Turf Technician

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Sports Turf Technician
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Responsible for assisting in the maintenance and operations of all Purdue University Intercollegiate Athletic fields and surrounding grounds areas.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Formulate and implement proper turfgrass maintenance schedules and management practices, to include recognizing, identifying and treating turfgrass insects and diseases that could damage the quality of athletic turf. Responsible for application of fertilizer and chemicals for athletic facility sites. Formulate fertilizers and chemical spread formulas used in turfgrass maintenance. Assist with game day operations for all outdoor athletic events. Assist Sports Turf Crew Chief with special projects. Work under the supervision of the Sports Turf Crew Chief.
  • Assist in creating annual maintenance & fertility weekly duties calendars, then independently follows them throughout the year to promote, monitor and maintain health of assigned areas. Work independently on special projects assigned by Sports Turf Crew Chief.
  • Occasionally manage and/or supervise grounds maintenance crews with field preparations. Coordinate painting/fertilizing and cultural practices for all game and practice fields. Assign and manage crews responsible for aerifying, topdressing and sod work. Paint lines and logos for sporting events and can troubleshoot issues. Oversee multiple assigned student employees.
  • Use of a variety of specialized machinery, including boom sprayer, reel mowers, utility tractor, skid steer, topdressors, seeders, paint lining equipment and irrigation systems. Use turf equipment and irrigation systems and can troubleshoot issues. Follow all safety policies and procedures.
  • Maintain working inventory of all materials used; accurate allocation of chemicals in keeping with EPA standards; ensures proper inventory records to plan for purchase of chemicals, fertilizers, paint and maintenance supplies. Keep detailed history of turf maintenance, chemical/fertility logs, paint logs for historical reference or review of BMPs.
  • Respond to coaches needs and advise to ensure accuracy and understanding of all details. Make recommendations for improvement. Develop turfgrass maintenance tools applicable to the sport program area(s). Maintain awareness of current and emerging technologies related to field maintenance and communication. Relay sport program information and explain processes correctly to coaches, administrators and staff. Work closely with coaching staffs and other athletic department staff members for practices and events.

About Us:
Purdue Athletics is built on unrivaled pride, unlimited potential, and a sense of shared purpose that unites staff, student-athletes, and the broader community. As part of Purdue's 150-year legacy, Athletics exemplifies a culture of collaboration, continuous growth, and excellence, where every member is encouraged to strive for success while fostering a positive and supportive environment. Joining Purdue Athletics means joining a team committed to building a better world together-where professional aspirations thrive, innovation is celebrated, and a lasting impact is made on campus and beyond. Read more: Purdue Boilermakers Athletics
What We're Looking For:
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma/GED.
  • Two or four-year degree in turf science or related field preferred.
  • Three years of sports turf experience required.

Skills needed:
  • Preferably, will have a two or four year degree in turf science or related field and possess three or more years of sports turf experience
  • Must have obtained Category 3B pesticide license
  • Routinely demonstrate organizational and time management skills to meet strict deadlines
  • Ability to communicate and adhere to OSHA, University, Big Ten Conference, and NCAA policies, procedures, rules, and regulations is necessary
  • Must participate in continuing education opportunities such as seminars, workshops, correspondence courses and trade shows
  • Maintains an awareness of current and new technologies, procedures, products that could improve the quality of athletic fields
  • Perform other duties, as assigned.
  • HEAVY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Lift and carry 50 to 80 lbs. frequently, and up to 100+ lbs.

Who We Are:
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Additional Information:
  • Purdue's benefits summary https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible For Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan

Career Stream
Compensation Information:
Administrative and Operational Support 2
Pay Band S040
Job Code#20003768
Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
EOE
Purdue University is an EO/EA University

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