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Turf Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Chalet

Landscape Management Trainee

North Chicago, IL

$45K - $50K/yr

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

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.

Troon Golf

Golf Course Superintendent

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

Supervises the planting and cultural practices involved in growing various turf grasses, trees and ... soil science). Physical Demands: * Regularly stands, walks and sits. * Regularly uses hands ...

Troon

Golf Course Superintendent

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

Supervises the planting and cultural practices involved in growing various turf grasses, trees and ... soil science). Physical Demands: * Regularly stands, walks and sits. * Regularly uses hands ...

Holganix

Agronomist

Mount Vernon, IL · On-site +1

... turf users) across America and Canada. Our solution dramatically increases soil health, ultimately ... Bachelor's of Science in Agronomy and CCA or relevant training preferred * 5+ years of agronomic ...

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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 Jul 28, 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 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 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 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.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,573 per year, or $28.2 per hour.
Landscape Management Trainee

Landscape Management Trainee

Chalet

North Chicago, IL

$45K - $50K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description

Chalet's Landscape Services group in North Chicago, IL (near Gurnee) has an opportunity for a Landscape Management Trainee starting in Spring or Summer 2026. Come and explore a variety of rewarding career opportunities and gain valuable hands-on experience to build your skillset, all while you are being mentored by the green industry's top professionals. To find the direction that's the best fit, this full-time, year-round opportunity would include rotations in multiple areas of focus including:

  • Residential Maintenance - work with Production Coordinators and Account Managers to learn the aspects of residential landscape maintenance including proper maintenance policies and procedures, use of equipment, and safety. Additionally, gain exposure to best practices for keeping accurate and updated site information, developing job schedules, monitoring productivity of assigned crews, checking tools and equipment and inspecting maintenance work.
  • Residential Design Build - play a part in bringing landscape designs to life. Work alongside skilled teams to install high-end residential outdoor living spaces while developing a deep understanding of construction layout from scaled plans. Learn to navigate field conditions, manage change orders, collaborate with subcontractors, and execute punch lists under the guidance of Project Managers, Superintendents, and Landscape Architects and Designers.
  • Turf & Plant Healthcare - learn the best IPM practices and about maintaining the highest quality of plants and turf for our residential customers. We will help you prepare for standards licenses.

Requirements

We're looking for:

  • Recent graduates with associates or bachelor's degrees in Landscape Management, Horticulture, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Plant & Soil Science, Forestry, Landscape Design or related discipline.
  • Someone who will embrace and live our values of respect, accountability, vision, service, listening, learning & teaching, and gratitude.
  • An outgoing personality, a trustworthy approach, and flexibility to take on different tasks, all with a track record of accountability and a hands-on approach to getting things done.
  • Bilingual Spanish is a plus. Able to lift 40+ pounds. Valid driver's license and good driving record.

This is a full-time year round opportunity that would be eligible for our full benefits package including 6 medical plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield, dental, life insurance, vision, 401(k), paid holidays, paid sick time, paid vacation, employee discount and more!

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