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Turf Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Our team of turf professionals cultivate and maintain high performance natural turf fields using proven cultural practices. We master the science and art of irrigating, fertilizing, aerating, seeding ...

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Our team of turf professionals cultivate and maintain high performance natural turf fields using proven cultural practices. We master the science and art of irrigating, fertilizing, aerating, seeding ...

Stadium Operations - Sports Turf Specialist

Orlando, FL · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Turf Grass Science, Horticulture, or related field preferred. * 1-3 years of grounds maintenance related work experience in soccer * Candidate should possess or have the ability ...

Head Groundskeeper

Lakewood, NJ · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Minimum Qualifications Four year Turf Science Degree or Two Year Turfgrass Certificate. Minimum 2 years management and groundskeeper experience for a baseball facility or likeminded operation with a ...

Showing results 41-60

Turf Science information

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$31.5K

$60.4K

$120.5K

How much do turf science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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:

Infographic showing various Turf Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,445 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Turfgrass Professional - Sales

Pacific Sports Turf, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Pacific Sports Turf Inc. is looking for a well-qualified turf grass enthusiast to join our team. The ideal candidate will have the right combination of education and/or practical experience with turf grass knowledge and horticulture principles.

Pacific Sports Turf Inc assists in repairs and specialty maintenance on sports fields, golf courses, and a variety of other premium landscapes. The Turfgrass Professional will be responsible for consulting with clients to help them through turfgrass related problems, maintaining relationships, and selling work related to turfgrass health or cultural practices.

Candidates would be expected to obtain an Oregon State Driver’s License and work with our turf crew to understand our process and timing, then with our assistance start producing sales contracts within 6 months of hire.

Company Description

Pacific Sports Turf Inc. excels in specialty maintenance operations on sports fields and golf sites throughout the Northwest. Our team of turf professionals cultivate and maintain high performance natural turf fields using proven cultural practices. We master the science and art of irrigating, fertilizing, aerating, seeding, top-dressing, soil testing (for structure and fertility), and general maintenance of athletic surfaces. We do most anything critical to sports turf management on natural and synthetic surfaces – except mow, paint, or spray chemicals.