Athletic Field Turf Specialist — Game Day Ready

Purdue University; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, is seeking a Grounds and Sports Turf Specialist to assist in maintenance and operations of all intercollegiate athletic fields and surrounding grounds. You will implement turfgrass schedules, apply fertilizers and chemicals, and support game-day operations under the Sports Turf Crew Chief.

Responsibilities include supervising student crews, managing equipment and inventory, and ensuring safety and compliance with EPA and university policies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Two or four-year degree in turf science or related field preferred.
• Three years of sports turf experience required.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and implement turfgrass maintenance schedules and practices, including insect and disease management and fertilizer/chemical applications.
• Assist with game day operations for outdoor athletic events.
• Supervise and coordinate grounds crews for field preparations, painting/logos, and turf projects.
• Maintain inventory, chemical logs, fertilizer logs, and BMP documentation.
• Communicate with coaches, staff, and administrators to ensure accurate turf management details.

Skills

Turfgrass maintenance

Insect & disease identification

Fertilizer application

Equipment operation

Team supervision

Safety compliance

Communication with coaches

Education

High school diploma/GED

Two or four-year turf-related degree

Tools

Boom sprayer

Reel mowers

Utility tractor

Skid steer

Topdressers

Seeders

Paint lining equipment

Irrigation systems

Job description

Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, is seeking a Grounds and Sports Turf Specialist to assist in maintenance and operations of all intercollegiate athletic fields and surrounding grounds. You will implement turfgrass schedules, apply fertilizers and chemicals, and support game-day operations under the Sports Turf Crew Chief.

Responsibilities include supervising student crews, managing equipment and inventory, and ensuring safety and compliance with EPA and university policies.