Associate Director, Athletic Fields

San José State University; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 109,747 - 120,907; Full time

Job summary

San José State University is seeking an Associate Director for Athletic Fields in San José. This role involves overseeing campus grounds management, supporting Division I Athletics, and ensuring safety and sustainability in operations. The incumbent will lead staff, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with regulations while maintaining high standards of customer service. A Bachelor's degree in horticulture or related field is required along with five years of professional landscape management experience. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Five years of professional experience in landscape management.
• Supervisory experience in grounds operations management.
• Knowledge of irrigation and pest management practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee athletic fields and campus grounds management.
• Plan and direct grounds renovation and maintenance projects.
• Manage budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation.

Skills

Leadership

Grounds management

Sustainability practices

Communication

Education

Bachelor of Arts/Science degree in horticulture or related field

Job description

Job no: 557082

Work type: Management (MPP)

Location: San José

Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Full Time

Job Summary

The Associate Director, Athletic Fields provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for South Campus grounds, supporting Division I Athletics and campus landscape services. This role manages daily grounds operations, including planning, resource allocation, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory compliance. The incumbent leads staff, oversees budgets and contracts, and ensures high-quality, safe, and environmentally responsible grounds maintenance. Operating with broad independence, this position has significant impact on campus operations, customer satisfaction, and long-term facilities stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and management of athletic fields, campus grounds, and landscape services to ensure safety, playability, and sustainability
• Plan, direct, and oversee major grounds renovation and maintenance projects, including contractor coordination and quality control
• Develop and implement maintenance plans, service standards, and preventive maintenance programs for all assigned areas
• Manage integrated pest management (IPM), irrigation systems, soil health, and turf programs using sustainable practices
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation to support efficient and effective operations
• Oversee vendor and contract administration, procurement processes, and service delivery outcomes
• Supervise, coach, and evaluate staff; oversee hiring, training, performance management, and employee development
• Establish and monitor performance metrics, quality assurance programs, and reporting systems
• Serve as primary liaison to Athletics, Club Sports, and campus stakeholders; ensure high levels of customer service and communication
• Ensure compliance with University, CSU, and regulatory requirements, including safety, environmental, and operational standards

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to plan, implement, and manage complex grounds and athletic field operations
• Knowledge of landscape maintenance practices, irrigation systems, pest management, and turf management
• Working knowledge of sustainable and organic landscape management practices, including IPM and soil health programs
• Ability to interpret plans and manage large-scale landscape and construction projects
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, including performance management and team development
• Ability to analyze operational data, identify issues, and implement process improvements
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills across diverse stakeholders and organizational levels
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing operational needs
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to safety, environmental compliance, and pesticide use
• Ability to foster a collaborative, customer-focused, and inclusive work environment

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Arts/Science degree in horticulture or a related field OR equivalent by minimum two years of supervisory experience in scheduling, coordinating, and performing grounds operations, with at least two years in progressively responsible management
• Five years of professional work experience directly related to landscape management of a large campus or complex, with a minimum of three years in progressively responsible management
• Knowledge of landscape practices as related to irrigation, integrated pest management, and organic vegetation management
• Supervisory work experience in management of personnel or employee relations issues
• Demonstrated experience developing and implementing grounds maintenance plans
• Experience in grounds maintenance at an NCAA or professional sports environment

License

A valid driver's license is required for this position. Out of state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver's license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.

Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.

Preferred Qualifications

• Pest Control Certification (QAL or QLC) from the State of California, or Certified IPM Technician (CIT)
• Organic Land Care Professional (AOLCP) credential from the Professional Grounds Management Society
• Membership or certification with the Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) with a focus on sustainable practices
• Certified Arborist from the ISA or ASCA
• Certified Landscape or Golf Irrigation Auditor from the Irrigation Association
• NOFA Organic Land Care Professional certification, or equivalent training in organic land management
• Supervisory experience within a collective bargaining and represented staff environment
• Experience managing athletic fields using organic and ecologically sustainable methods
• Experience in grounds services management of a State facility, College or University, or other environment with extensive grounds
• Experience managing grounds services and operations in a high level NCAA or professional sports environment

Compensation

Classification: Administrator II

Anticipated Hiring Range: $9,834/month - $10,834/month

CSU Salary Range: $5,053/month - $16,221/month

The final hiring salary will be commensurate with experience.

San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.

Application Procedure

Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest

All applicants must apply within the specified application period: April 27, 2026, through May 12, 2026. This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.

Contact Information

University Personnel

[e-mail]

408-924-2252

Equal Employment Statement

San José State University is an equal opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San José State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university (both on and off campus). Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose. San José State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

Advertised: April 27, 2026 (9:00 AM) Pacific Daylight Time

Applications close: Open until filled

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