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Turfgrass Science Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Arborist Climber Trainee

Houston, TX

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field is preferred but not required The F. A. Bartlett ...

Arborist Climber Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field is preferred but not required The F. A. Bartlett ...

Turfgrass Science information

See Houston, TX salary details

$23.4K

$46.2K

$75.4K

How much do turfgrass science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for turfgrass science in Houston, TX is $46,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,800.00 and $49,700.00 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 Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Turfgrass Science jobs in Houston, TX are:
Infographic showing various Turfgrass Science job openings in Houston, TX 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 $46,212 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 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

2nd of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts! At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development.

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working 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 entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on, on-the-job training.


We offer competitive compensation, as well as:

  • A safety-first culture and professional workplace
  • Advancement opportunities - we promote from within
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Industry credential/license pay increases - we encourage and invest in your professional development
  • Company provided uniforms, PPE, gear, and equipment
  • Boot reimbursement up to $150
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Laboratories in Charlotte, NC

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


As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will play an important role in:

  • Learning through on-the-job training to safely perform all aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Tree climbing
    • Pruning
    • Rigging
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Removal of hazardous trees
    • Tree identification
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
    • Implementing work zone safety procedures
    • Assisting Arborist Climbers and Arborist Crew Leaders working on the ground and aloft
    • Assisting with driving, backing, dumping, and parking duties
  • Learning, understanding, and adhering to all safety rules and company safety policies

  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • Interest in working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions
  • Valid driver's license
  • A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work on a multi-disciplinary team
  • Prior tree care, landscaping, forestry, turf care, or horticulture experience is preferred but not required
  • Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field is preferred but not required

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


Houston
TX
Production Arborist
7/13/2026
Regular Full-Time

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