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Turfgrass Science Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Turfgrass Science information

See Missouri salary details

$23K

$45.4K

$74.1K

How much do turfgrass science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for turfgrass science in Missouri is $45,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,100.00 and $48,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is turfgrass science a good career?

Turfgrass science is a specialized field focused on the management and health of turfgrass in various environments such as sports fields, golf courses, and landscapes. It offers opportunities in research, maintenance, and environmental sustainability, often requiring knowledge of soil science, plant biology, and pest management. Career prospects can be stable with relevant education and certifications, and the work environment typically involves outdoor and hands-on tasks.

What is turfgrass science?

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 turfgrass science?

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.

What jobs can you get with a turfgrass science degree?

A turfgrass science degree prepares individuals for careers such as turf manager, golf course superintendent, landscape manager, or grounds maintenance supervisor. These roles involve managing turf health, pest control, irrigation, and maintenance, often requiring knowledge of soil science, plant biology, and equipment operation.
What job categories do people searching Turfgrass Science jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Turfgrass Science jobs in Missouri are:
Infographic showing various Turfgrass Science job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,391 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Turf Lawn Care Route Manager

Ryan Lawn & Tree Inc

Chesterfield, MO • On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 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

6th 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 Route Manager for our St. Louis 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 Route Manager 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

  • 3+ years of experience in green or agricultural industry preferred
  • High School Diploma or GED required (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 $50,000 - 60,000 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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