Grounds Manager
Department: Operations / Facilities
Reports To: Director of Operations (or Stadium Operations Manager)
Status: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Grounds Manager is responsible for the overall maintenance, preparation, and presentation of all playing surfaces and surrounding grounds to ensure safe, high-quality conditions for training, matches, and special events. This role plays a critical part in player safety, competitive performance, and the overall fan experience.
Key Responsibilities
Field & Surface Management
- Oversee daily maintenance of natural grass, hybrid, or artificial turf playing surfaces.
- Ensure all fields meet league, safety, and performance standards.
- Manage mowing, aeration, fertilization, irrigation, topdressing, painting, and field layout.
- Prepare fields for matches, training sessions, tournaments, and special events.
- Monitor turf health, drainage, compaction, and wear patterns; implement corrective plans as needed.
Event & Match Day Operations
- Lead all field preparation for home matches and events, including timelines and staffing plans.
- Coordinate with coaching staff, operations, and league officials on field requirements.
- Be present on match days to address field-related issues before, during, and after events.
Staff & Vendor Management
- Hire, train, and supervise grounds crew (full-time, part-time, and seasonal).
- Schedule staff to support daily maintenance and event needs.
- Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and suppliers.
Equipment & Inventory
- Maintain and operate all grounds equipment (mowers, tractors, aerators, sprayers, etc.).
- Develop preventative maintenance schedules for equipment.
- Manage inventory of supplies and materials; order as needed within budget.
Budgeting & Planning
- Assist in developing and managing the annual grounds maintenance budget.
- Track expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or safety.
- Support long-term planning for field renovations, turf replacement, and infrastructure upgrades.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with league regulations, local codes, and safety standards.
- Maintain proper handling and storage of chemicals, fertilizers, and equipment.
- Implement best practices for workplace safety and environmental stewardship.
Qualifications
- 3–7 years of experience in sports turf management, groundskeeping, or related field (professional or collegiate athletics preferred).
- Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
- Strong knowledge of turfgrass species, soil science, irrigation systems, and pest management.
- Experience managing staff and coordinating event-based operations.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Certifications
- Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) or ability to obtain
- Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and operate heavy equipment.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Key Success Indicators
- Safe, consistent, and high-performing playing surfaces
- Compliance with league and safety standards
- Efficient budget management
- Strong coordination with coaching and operations staff
- Positive feedback from players, staff, and league officials
