Athletic Fields Lead — Turf, Training & Field Prep

The California State University; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous time off

CalPERS retirement program

Health, dental & vision coverage

Tuition fee waiver for employees

Job summary

The California State University seeks a Lead Athletic Fields Groundsworker to direct a skilled grounds crew and manage maintenance of NCAA Division I athletic fields and surrounding grounds on SDSU campus.

Responsibilities include scheduling, training, safety, turf management, irrigation, and equipment operation to ensure safe, high-quality playing surfaces for practices, competitions, and events. Collaborate with coaches and facilities staff to support events and campus activities.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience in planting, cultivating, and maintaining grounds or comparable work.
• Experience in NCAA Division I or equivalent environment is preferred.
• Knowledge of turf management, soil management, and plant care methods.

Responsibilities

• Provide lead direction to Athletic Fields Groundsworkers, including assigning work and inspecting quality.
• Train employees in field maintenance techniques and safety practices.
• Maintain records of labor, costs, and activities using facilities systems.
• Oversee mowing, edging, irrigation monitoring, and landscape maintenance.
• Ensure safe, high-quality playing surfaces for practices, competitions, and events.

Skills

Leadership

Training & supervision

Turf management

Irrigation systems

Safety & compliance

Team collaboration

Education

Sports Turf Management (associate degree)

Tools

Turf equipment

Irrigation controls

Job description

The California State University seeks a Lead Athletic Fields Groundsworker to direct a skilled grounds crew and manage maintenance of NCAA Division I athletic fields and surrounding grounds on SDSU campus.

Responsibilities include scheduling, training, safety, turf management, irrigation, and equipment operation to ensure safe, high-quality playing surfaces for practices, competitions, and events. Collaborate with coaches and facilities staff to support events and campus activities.