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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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Be Seen First

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 ...

New

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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:

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.

Turf Lawn Care Route Manager

Ryan Lawn & Tree Inc

Broken Arrow, OK • On-site

$43K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Ryan Lawn & Tree rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Description:

Did you know that Ryan Lawn & Tree is a $100M+ professional Lawn & Landscape company? We've built one of the most respected lawn and tree care companies in the Midwest — and serve customers across Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Nebraska. We're on a mission to raise the bar for our entire industry — attracting exceptional people, treating them right, and doing work that leaves a mark on every community we touch.


If you love working outside this role is for you! We are hiring a Turf Trainee/Specialist for our Tulsa team.


Become the detective homeowners call when their lawn mysteries need solving. You'll diagnose problems others can't see, prescribe solutions that actually work, and transform problem properties into success stories. In this role you'll be both a skilled technician and a turf whisperer, breathing life into lawns while earning the trust of homeowners who take pride in their outdoor spaces.


What does a Turf Trainee/Specialist do?

  • Provide excellent account management and customer service
  • Manage a route of 400-500 customers
  • Complete turf bid requests, fertilization applications, aerating, seeding and service calls for customer properties
  • Diagnose and provide specific lawn care solutions for individual customer properties
  • Must be able to work in a team environment as well as efficiently on your own
  • Possess knowledge of turfgrass practices as well as all other RYAN services
Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Experience in horticulture, landscaping, customer service, or related fields is preferred
  • Bachelor or Associates degree in agronomy, turfgrass or agricultural sciences is a plus
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Ability to obtain DOT certification
  • Ability to obtain and maintain state issued pesticide applicator license, turfgrass within 3 months
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds


** SAFETY-SENSITIVE POSITION: This is a safety-sensitive position requiring the operation of vehicles and equipment. All candidates must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen (including marijuana), criminal background check, MVR check, and DOT physical (where applicable) before starting employment. Candidates must meet all screening requirements as a condition of employment.


We hire great people for our employee-owned company. You will become a partner in the highest quality lawn and tree company in the Midwest. Why work at RYAN? In addition to being a non-smoking & EEOC company with advancement opportunities, other great benefits include:

  • Full time year around employment with a starting compensation of $43,000+ depending on experience with bonuses available.
  • Excellent benefits package to include: Health Insurance, Dental/Vision, 401k w/ company match, and more
  • 17 Paid Time Off (PTO) Days, 11 Paid Holidays and 1 Personal Floating Holiday
  • 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Uniforms provided

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