Overview
Athletic turf managers are responsible for producing and maintaining sporting grounds. They ensure the turf and surrounds are looking pristine.
What responsibilities will I have?
- Develop and implement plans for the successful maintenance of all athletic fields and grounds
- Plan, oversee, and project-manage major athletic grounds and fields renovation projects, as assigned; schedule, facilitate, oversee, and quality control reconstruction activities, including the work of external contractors
- Oversee assigned personnel, which includes assigning work, work allocation, training and problem resolution; evaluating performance and making recommendations for personnel actions
- Develop and manages budgets related to athletic fields and grounds
- Purchase, maintain, and manage inventory of athletic field maintenance equipment and supplies
- Supervise the conversion and protection of athletic fields during special events
- Restore fields damaged by weather, use, or other conditions to a level commensurate with that expected athletic grounds
- Manage and reviews irrigation systems performance and initiates changes when necessary
- Be in attendance during sporting events to supervise field use
What education and training is required?
A bachelor’s degree in turfgrass management is required.
To pursue a career as an athletic turf manager:
The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, mathematics, Spanish, biology, chemistry and environmental science.
Where can I work?
Athletic turf managers can work for universities, golf courses, municipal stadiums, and professional sporting teams.
Future Job Market / Outlook
The future outlook for an athletic turf manager will be great over the next five years.
Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations
- National Turfgrass Federation
- Golf Course Superintendent’s Association
- Sports Turf Managers Association
