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Turfgrass Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Turfgrass Science information

See Illinois salary details

$23.7K

$46.9K

$76.6K

How much do turfgrass science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for turfgrass science in Illinois is $46,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,300.00 and $50,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a turfgrass degree make?

Salaries for professionals with a turfgrass science degree vary based on experience, location, and job role, but entry-level positions typically start around $30,000 to $40,000 annually. With experience and advanced certifications, such as Certified Turfgrass Professional, salaries can increase to $50,000 or more, especially in management or consulting roles within golf courses, sports fields, or turf management companies.

What can you do with a degree in turfgrass?

A degree in turfgrass science prepares individuals for careers such as turfgrass manager, golf course superintendent, sports field manager, or research technician. These roles involve maintaining and managing turf health, using tools like soil testing and irrigation systems, often requiring knowledge of plant science, pest management, and environmental conditions.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In turfgrass science, high-paying roles such as senior turfgrass managers or consultants in large sports or golf course operations can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced knowledge of turf management, environmental conditions, and equipment, along with certifications and a strong industry reputation.

What is a Turfgrass Science job?

A Turfgrass Science job involves the study and management of grasses used for sports fields, golf courses, lawns, and other managed landscapes. Professionals in this field work to improve turf health, durability, and aesthetics by applying scientific principles related to soil science, pest control, irrigation, and plant biology. Common roles include turfgrass managers, agronomists, researchers, and consultants for industries like sports, landscaping, and agriculture. These jobs often require knowledge of turf maintenance practices, environmental sustainability, and the use of specialized equipment. Many turfgrass science professionals work for golf courses, athletic facilities, sod farms, or university research programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Turfgrass Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Turfgrass Science, you need a background in agronomy, plant science, soil science, and turf management, often supported by a bachelor's degree or higher in a related field. Familiarity with field diagnostic tools, irrigation systems, pest management practices, and relevant industry certifications like Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) are typically important. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, communication, and the ability to work independently or with teams make candidates stand out. These competencies ensure proper turf health, successful maintenance, and effective collaboration with grounds crews or clients in various environments.

What are some common challenges faced in a Turfgrass Science career?

Professionals in Turfgrass Science often encounter challenges such as managing turf under varying weather conditions, controlling pests and diseases, and meeting the demanding quality standards of sports facilities or golf courses. Adapting maintenance strategies to factors like climate changes or heavy site usage requires both technical expertise and critical thinking. Effective communication with grounds teams, facility managers, and sometimes clients is also crucial when implementing new management practices or troubleshooting issues. Overcoming these challenges not only ensures optimal playing surfaces but also helps advance your professional reputation in the industry.

Is turfgrass science a good major?

Turfgrass science is a relevant major for careers in lawn and landscape management, sports field maintenance, and environmental conservation. It provides knowledge of plant biology, soil science, and pest management, often requiring hands-on skills and certifications. Graduates can work in outdoor environments with seasonal schedules and practical applications.
What are popular job titles related to Turfgrass Science jobs in Illinois? For Turfgrass Science jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Turfgrass Science jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Turfgrass Science jobs in Illinois are:
Turfgrass Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turfgrass Science job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Internship, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,892 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Arboriculture Internship

Arboriculture Internship

Bartlett Tree Experts

Lake Barrington, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Internship

Posted 15 days ago

Bartlett Tree Experts rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 35 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a Summer Internship with Bartlett Tree Experts! 

As an Arboriculture Intern, you will work alongside Bartlett's dedicated team of arborists, gaining practical field experience in scientific tree and shrub care on commercial and residential properties. This is a unique opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on training. Our Summer Internships are 8-12 weeks, 40 hours per week, and generally, start in May (start and end dates are flexible based on your availability). 


  • $16.00 - $18.00 per hour
  • A safety-first culture and professional workplace
  • Company provided uniforms, PPE, gear, and equipment
  • Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Laboratories

To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @LifeatBartlett.


As an Arboriculture Intern, you will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of scientific tree and shrub care, while exploring different facets of this rewarding industry. Your internship may provide the following hands-on experience:

  • Learning and safely performing different aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Pruning
    • Rigging
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Root collar excavations
    • Removals
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
  • Gaining an understanding of integrated pest management programs, including:
    • Property inspections
    • Tree identification
    • Insect and disease identification and management
    • Soil sampling
    • Record-keeping, report writing, and client relations
  • Participating in safety and training meetings and developing professional relationships and friendships

  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • Pursuing a degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Turfgrass, Horticulture, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field
  • Interest in working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work on a multi-disciplinary team

About Us

Bartlett Tree Experts is a 100+-year-old scientific tree and shrub care company with over 140 offices in the United States, Canada, Great Britain, and Ireland. Built on family values and the pursuit of scientific tree care, we are proud of the quality of our work, level of service, award-winning safety record, and, most of all, our people. With services including pruning, insect and disease management, soil care and fertilization, and cabling and bracing, we strive to keep trees healthy and beautiful. 

The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.


Lake Barrington
IL
Internships
2/25/2026
Intern

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