Athletic Field & Grounds Operations Lead

Genesis Distribution; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 78,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks a Superintendent of Grounds for the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics. The role leads all grounds operations, irrigation, and turf maintenance to ensure safe, championship-quality venues across 85 acres of athletic facilities.

The position requires supervisory experience and knowledge of NCAA/Big Ten rules, with a preferred bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years supervisory work experience in grounds maintenance.
• Knowledge of NCAA/Big Ten/University rules related to athletic grounds.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Flexible to nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise grounds staff and set maintenance programs for athletic fields and exterior facilities.
• Oversee irrigation, drainage, and turf management to ensure safe, championship-quality surfaces.
• Coordinate facility readiness for practices, events, and competitions with coaches and events staff.
• Assist in budgeting, procurement, and personnel administration for grounds operations.
• Plan long-term improvements and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Skills

Supervisory leadership

Grounds maintenance

Irrigation systems

Turf management

Facilities coordination

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Irrigation equipment

Mowers & Turf equipment

Fertilizers & pesticides handling

Job description

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks a Superintendent of Grounds for the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics. The role leads all grounds operations, irrigation, and turf maintenance to ensure safe, championship-quality venues across 85 acres of athletic facilities.

The position requires supervisory experience and knowledge of NCAA/Big Ten rules, with a preferred bachelor’s degree in a related field.