Associate Director, Athletic Fields & Grounds

Opt For Healthy Living; California (MO); On-site; USD 109,747 - 120,907; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

San José State University is seeking an Associate Director, Athletic Fields to lead South Campus grounds operations in support of Division I Athletics. You will direct daily activities, manage staff and budgets, and drive sustainability initiatives for safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible maintenance.

The role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with campus stakeholders to deliver high-quality grounds services across a large university setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in horticulture or related field or two years supervisory experience in scheduling, coordinating, and performing grounds operations.
• Five years of professional work experience directly related to landscape management of a large campus or complex, with a minimum of three years associated with progressively responsible management experience.
• 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.

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

Skills

Grounds management

Leadership

Budgeting

Contract management

IPM

Irrigation systems

Sustainability

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Project planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in horticulture or related field

Two years supervisory grounds operations experience

Job description

San José State University is seeking an Associate Director, Athletic Fields to lead South Campus grounds operations in support of Division I Athletics. You will direct daily activities, manage staff and budgets, and drive sustainability initiatives for safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible maintenance.

The role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with campus stakeholders to deliver high-quality grounds services across a large university setting.