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Turf Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Chalet

Landscape Management Trainee

North Chicago, IL

$45K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Turf & Plant Healthcare - learn the best IPM practices and about maintaining the highest quality of ... Environmental Science, Plant & Soil Science, Forestry, Landscape Design or related discipline.

Chalet Landscape

Landscape Management Trainee

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Turf & Plant Healthcare - learn the best IPM practices and about maintaining the highest quality of ... Environmental Science, Plant & Soil Science, Forestry, Landscape Design or related discipline.

Chalet

Landscape Management Trainee

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Turf & Plant Healthcare - learn the best IPM practices and about maintaining the highest quality of ... Environmental Science, Plant & Soil Science, Forestry, Landscape Design or related discipline.

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Barrington, IL · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prior tree care, landscaping, forestry, turf care, or horticulture experience is preferred but not required * Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant ...

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All JobsTurf Science JobsTurf Science Jobs in Illinois

Turf Science information

See Illinois salary details

$30.5K

$58.6K

$116.8K

How much do turf science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for turf science in Illinois is $58,573.00, 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Turf Science jobs in Illinois?

For Turf Science jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Turf Science jobs in Illinois are:

Turf Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turf Science job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,573 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

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

Oak View Group

Evanston, IL • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Oak View Group rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 36 rated event venues

Job description

Oak View Group
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents.
Position Summary
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.

Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis ("protected class") including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

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