Are you a sports fanatic?
If so, a career in Sports Turf Management might be for you. Sports turf encompasses all fields of play with the exception of golf courses. The managers of athletic fields are called upon to maintain beautiful, safe, and advantageous playing surfaces for the teams they represent.
Player safety is their first priority. With athletes signing record breaking contracts each year, it is critical to maintain a field free of divots and other hazards so the players can spend more time working and less time rehabbing from an injury. These managers must also view the field from the perspective of the fan base and make sure expectations regarding aesthetics are being met.
Lastly, a sports turf manager often carries out the wishes of the coach in regards to field conditions. How wet or dry does the coach like the playing surface on game day to achieve the surest footing for his players? How tall should the grass be to achieve maximum speed for your team or to slow down an opponent? Sports Turf Managers work behind the scenes in most cases, but are an integral part of a team’s success on their field of play.
Explore these career paths! |
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Sports Turf Technician
Duties:
• Monitor turf quality
• Perform turf fertilization and aeration
• Monitor specialty areas on the field (goal boxes, baselines, infield skin, warning track)
• Control and prevent weeds, insects, and diseases
• Apply field markings
Education:
• High School education preferred
• Two-year technical college certificate a bonus
• Training provided by employer, but experience is helpful
Pay:
• Seasonal positions: $10.00 – $14.00 per hour
• Full-time, year-round positions: $23,000.00 – $40,000.00
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Groundskeeper
Duties:
• Monitor turf quality and playability
• Monitor specialty areas on the field (goal boxes, baselines, infield skin, warning track)
• Perform turf fertilization and aeration processes
• Control and prevent weeds, insects, and diseases
• Prune and trim small shrubs and trees
• Manage Field questions and concerns
• Apply field markings
• Train and supervision of Technicians
• Assist with marketing projects
• Maintain supplies and inventory
Education:
• High School diploma
• Two-year technical college certificate a bonus
• 2-4 years of experience
Pay:
• Seasonal positions: $14.00 – $16.00 per hour
• Full-time, year-round positions: $40,000.00 – $50,000.00
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