ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Turfgrass Management Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTurfgrass Management JobsTurfgrass Management Jobs in Chicago, IL

Turfgrass Management information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$49.9K

$71.6K

How much do turfgrass management jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for turfgrass management in Chicago, IL is $49,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is turfgrass management?

Turfgrass management is the science and practice of maintaining and caring for turfgrass areas, such as lawns, golf courses, sports fields, and parks. It involves tasks like mowing, fertilizing, irrigating, controlling weeds and pests, and maintaining soil health to ensure healthy, attractive, and functional grass surfaces. Professionals in this field use specialized knowledge and equipment to create safe, aesthetically pleasing, and durable turf for various recreational or commercial uses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in turfgrass management?

To thrive in Turfgrass Management, you need expertise in plant science, soil management, and pest control, typically supported by a degree in turfgrass science or a related field. Familiarity with turf maintenance equipment, irrigation systems, and certifications like Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) are often required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure optimal field conditions and team coordination. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining healthy, high-quality turf in sports, golf, and landscape settings.

What are some common challenges faced in turfgrass management, and how can professionals address them?

Professionals in turfgrass management frequently encounter challenges such as pest infestations, disease outbreaks, and unpredictable weather conditions that can impact turf quality. Managing soil health, irrigation schedules, and selecting the right grass species for the local climate are also crucial tasks. To address these challenges, turf managers often rely on integrated pest management strategies, regular soil testing, and ongoing education about the latest turfgrass technologies. Collaborating closely with grounds crews, agronomists, and local extension services can also help in developing effective, sustainable solutions.

What is the difference between Turfgrass Management vs Golf Course Superintendent?

AspectTurfgrass ManagementGolf Course Superintendent
CertificationsCertified Turfgrass Professional (CTP), pesticide licensesSame certifications, plus additional golf course-specific credentials
Work EnvironmentLawns, sports fields, parks, landscapesGolf courses, primarily outdoor, large-scale turf areas
Employer & IndustryLandscaping companies, sports facilities, parksGolf courses, private clubs, resorts
Job FocusMaintaining healthy turf across various settingsOverseeing entire golf course operations, including turf, staff, and course conditions

While both roles require similar certifications and focus on turf health, Turfgrass Management generally covers a broader range of outdoor turf environments. Golf Course Superintendents specialize in managing golf course conditions, staff, and operations, often with additional responsibilities related to the sport's standards.

How much does a turfgrass management make?

The average salary for a turfgrass manager or turfgrass management professional is typically between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the facility. Certifications in turfgrass science or related fields can enhance earning potential, and the job often involves working outdoors with equipment and turf maintenance tools.

Is turfgrass management a good career?

Turfgrass management is a viable career for those interested in horticulture, landscape maintenance, and environmental science. It involves skills in plant health, pest control, and equipment operation, often requiring certifications or degrees. The job offers outdoor work, seasonal schedules, and opportunities in golf courses, sports fields, and landscaping industries.

What can you do with a turfgrass management degree?

A turfgrass management degree prepares individuals for careers in maintaining and managing sports fields, golf courses, parks, and commercial landscapes. Graduates often work as turfgrass managers, groundskeepers, or landscape technicians, utilizing skills in plant science, pest control, irrigation, and equipment operation. Certification and knowledge of environmental regulations can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Turfgrass Management jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Turfgrass Management jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Turfgrass Management jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Turfgrass Management jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Turfgrass Management jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turfgrass Management job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,855 per year, or $24 per hour.

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

Evanston, IL • On-site

Oak View Group
Management of Companies and Enterprises • 51 - 200 employees

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 37 rated event venues

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about Oak View Groupexternal

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

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.
Oak View Group logo

About Oak View Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oak View Group (OVG) is a Development and Investment Company based in Los Angeles, CA, USA. Founded in 2015, the company plays a significant role in the sports and live entertainment industry. Specializing in arena & stadium alliances, OVG is committed to establishing partnerships that facilitate the growth of the live entertainment industry. The company operates multiple subdivisions involved in different aspects like facilities, security, content & media, and investments. Oak View Group's core mission is to be an industry leader that can be trusted by partners, residents, and fans to create world-class experiences.

Industry

Management of companies and enterprises

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

View All Oak View Group Jobs

What Oak View Group employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply