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Turfgrass Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, turfgrass breeding, turf pathology, soil and nutrient management, water management, root biology and physiology, and implementation of agricultural ...

Groundskeeper

Wayne, PA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

The Groundskeeper will maintain the overall beauty and quality of Chanticleer's grounds by performing skilled groundskeeping and turfgrass management duties. This is a career-level, full-time ...

ATHLETIC FIELD SPECIALIST

Durham, NC · On-site

$18 - $26.62/hr

Minimum Requirements -Work requires knowledge of turfgrass and soil management normally acquired through an Associate degree program in turfgrass management or two years post-secondary education in ...

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Agronomic planning and turfgrass management education. * Tournament preparation and course setup experience. * Professional development opportunities through industry associations and continuing ...

Minimum Requirements -Work requires knowledge of turfgrass and soil management normally acquired through an Associate degree program in turfgrass management or two years post-secondary education in ...

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Turfgrass Manager information

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$24K

$58.8K

$123K

How much do turfgrass manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for turfgrass manager in the United States is $58,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $65,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectTurfgrass ManagerGolf Course Superintendent
CertificationsCertified Turfgrass Professional (CTP), pesticide licensesSame certifications, often with additional agronomy credentials
Work EnvironmentGolf courses, sports fields, landscape companiesPrimarily golf courses, some sports facilities
ResponsibilitiesMaintaining turf health, overseeing turf care staff, applying fertilizers and pesticidesManaging entire course maintenance, overseeing staff, ensuring playability and safety

The Turfgrass Manager and Golf Course Superintendent roles share many certifications and work environments, focusing on turf health and maintenance. However, the Superintendent typically has broader responsibilities, overseeing the entire golf course operation to ensure optimal playing conditions.

What does a Turfgrass Manager do?

A Turfgrass Manager is responsible for the care and maintenance of grass surfaces, such as those found on golf courses, sports fields, parks, and lawns. Their job includes tasks like mowing, fertilizing, irrigating, and controlling pests and weeds to ensure healthy, attractive, and safe turf areas. They also plan maintenance schedules, manage budgets, and may supervise groundskeeping staff. Turfgrass Managers often work closely with facility managers and may be involved in selecting grass species, implementing sustainability practices, and troubleshooting turf problems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Turfgrass Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Turfgrass Manager, you need expertise in turfgrass science, soil management, and pest control, typically supported by a degree in turf management, horticulture, or a related field. Familiarity with irrigation systems, turf maintenance equipment, and certifications like a pesticide applicator license are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage crews and address client or facility needs effectively. These skills ensure healthy, high-quality turf and efficient operations for golf courses, sports fields, or landscaped grounds.

What are some common challenges Turfgrass Managers face in maintaining high-quality sports fields or golf courses?

Turfgrass Managers often deal with challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, pest infestations, and maintaining turf health under heavy usage. Balancing the aesthetic and functional needs of the turf while adhering to environmental regulations can also be demanding. Collaboration with grounds crews, facility managers, and sometimes agronomists is essential to develop effective maintenance schedules and address issues proactively. Staying updated with the latest turf management technologies and best practices is key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring optimal turf performance.
More about Turfgrass Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Turfgrass Manager jobs? Cities with the most Turfgrass Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Turfgrass jobs? The most popular types of Turfgrass jobs are:
What states have the most Turfgrass Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Turfgrass Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Turfgrass Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,774 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
Associate/Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science

Associate/Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Department of Plant Science in the College of Agriculture Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University is hiring an Assistant/Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Pennsylvania State University is pleased to invite qualified applicants to apply for an Associate/Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science position. This is a full-time (9-month) tenure-track faculty position in the Department of Plant Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences with a 50% teaching, 25% research and 25% extension appointment. The successful candidate will specialize in turfgrass science and bring expertise that complements and enhances the strengths of the current faculty. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, turfgrass breeding, turf pathology, soil and nutrient management, water management, root biology and physiology, and implementation of agricultural technologies of all types. The candidate will teach four classes in turfgrass science subjects related to their area of expertise to students in the resident baccalaureate program, as well as online classes through Penn State's World Campus. Courses may include Introduction to Turfgrass Science, Turfgrass Cultural Systems, Turfgrass Physiology, and Pest Management. Additional courses that contribute to the departmental teaching program in areas related to the candidate's disciplinary strengths may also be taught. Recruitment and advising of undergraduate and graduate students, as well as interaction with the turfgrass industry through an extension program that addresses practitioner needs, are expected. The successful candidate will engage in collaborative and interdisciplinary projects with other faculty at Penn State, as well as with plant scientists at regional and national levels, to develop a research program supported by extramural funding. This research program should lead to improved and sustainable turfgrass systems that foster environmental and economic resilience.

QUALIFICATIONS:

A Ph.D. in turfgrass science, soil science, plant physiology, or a related field is required. The candidate must demonstrate disciplinary expertise in a field relevant to turfgrass science, with the ability and desire to address problems within the context of turfgrass systems. Candidates must possess effective communication skills (verbal and written), teaching skills, interpersonal skills, and the ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues and clientele. The candidate must be organized and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously. An ability to engage professionally with our population of faculty, staff, and students across the university is required.

SALARY:

Commensurate with qualifications and experience. An excellent benefits package includes health, dental, and retirement contributions.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Candidates should apply online at https://hr.psu.edu/careers. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, the names and contact information for three references, three representative publications, a statement of research experiences/future interests, and a statement of teaching pedagogy/interests. System limitations allow for a total of 5 documents (5mb per document) as part of your application. Please combine materials to meet the 5-document limit.

START DATE: August 2026 or as negotiated.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit ourBenefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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