Head Groundskeeper

Somerset Patriots; Bridgewater (MA); On-site; USD 68,000 - 92,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) plan

Vacation time

Turf association memberships reimburse

Job summary

The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate, are seeking a Head Groundskeeper in Bridgewater, NJ. This full-time, year-round role oversees field maintenance, agronomic programs, and staff scheduling for a Kentucky Bluegrass field at TD Bank Ballpark.

You will manage budgets, subcontractors, and safety protocols while coordinating with front office and coaches for events, practices, and MLB rehabs. Strong turf credentials and licenses are required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years baseball field experience required.
• 2- or 4-year degree in turf management or related field.
• NJ fertilizer license within 3 months of hire.
• NJ Pesticide license (Core / 3B) within 6 months of hire.
• Relocation willingness within reasonable distance of Bridgewater, NJ.

Responsibilities

• Oversee field and grounds maintenance including mowing, edging, aeration, seeding, sodwork, topdressing, mound and HP work, field painting, shrub trimming, mulching, snow removal, weed control applications.
• Plan agronomic program for a sand-based Kentucky Bluegrass field including fertilization, spray program, cultural practices, pest scouting, and irrigation scheduling.
• Handle snow cleanup on walkways, steps, and entrances around ballpark using equipment as needed.
• Schedule subcontractors for field work and oversee projects within budget.
• Inspect and advise on upgrades to maintain field to PDL standards.
• Hire, supervise, schedule, and track hours for seasonal employees, interns, and part-time game staff.
• Develop annual grounds department budget and track spending throughout season.
• Assist with capital improvement planning as it relates to playing field and grounds.
• Track field supplies inventory and order as needed throughout the season.
• Maintain records for chemical applications, equipment servicing, and cultural practices.
• Oversee grounds equipment maintenance and schedule repair work as needed.
• Coordinate with front office for events on the field with proper protections in place.
• Coordinate with coaches daily for BP, defensive work, practices, and MLB rehabs.
• Monitor weather and communicate with umpires, coaches, and staff for rain delays.

Skills

Baseball experience

Crew supervision

Budget management

Education

Degree in turf management or related field

Job description

Position: Head Groundskeeper (full time / year-round)
Location: Bridgewater, NJ
Reports to: VP of Stadium Operations
Start Date: Immediately upon hire

About the Patriots:

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots were named Baseball America’s 2024 Freitas Award winner for Double-A Organization of the Year. Home games are played at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ. The ballpark features a USGA sand-based Kentucky Bluegrass field that was recently renovated in fall of 2024 to meet PDL standards.

Job Description

• Oversee maintenance of field and surrounding grounds including mowing, edging, aeration, seeding, sodwork, topdressing, mound and HP work, field painting, shrub trimming, mulching, snow removal, weed control applications, and other duties as needed
• Plan and carry out agronomic program for a sand-based Kentucky Bluegrass field including fertilization, spray program, cultural practices, pest scouting, and irrigation scheduling
• Handle snow cleanup on all walkways, steps, and entrances around ballpark utilizing tractor, snow blower, and shoveling
• Schedule subcontractors for field work and oversee successful completion of projects within budget
• Inspect, maintain, and advise on upgrades to maintain playing field to PDL standards
• Hire, supervise, schedule, and track hours for seasonal employees, interns, and part-time game staff
• Develop annual grounds department budget and track spending throughout season
• Assist with capital improvement planning as it relates to playing field and grounds
• Track field supplies inventory and order as needed throughout the season
• Pick up fuel for grounds equipment and supplies / parts from local vendors
• Maintain records for chemical applications, equipment servicing, and cultural practices
• Oversee grounds equipment maintenance and schedule repair work as needed
• Work with front office to coordinate successful execution of extra events on the field while ensuring proper field protections are in place
• Coordinate with coaches daily and set up for BP, defensive work, practices, and MLB rehabs
• Monitor weather and communicate with umpires, coaches, and ballpark staff for rain delays

Schedule:

This is a year-round position that requires ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays during the baseball season. The Patriots host 69 home games along with HS baseball games, corporate functions, and various youth events. Applicants must be able to work in any weather condition including heat, wind, snow, and rain.

Compensation:

$80,000 annual salary. Eligible for company benefits package including health insurance, 401(k) plan, and vacation time. Reimbursement is provided for turf association memberships, professional licenses, and continuing education seminars to maintain pesticide and fertilizer credits.

Qualifications:

• Positive attitude, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• At least 3 yrs baseball experience including time as either head groundskeeper or high-level assistant
• Must have a 2 or 4 year degree in turf management or related degree
• Ability to manage grounds crew employees in keeping with organizational values
• Must have or be able to obtain NJ fertilizer license within 3 months of hire
• Must have or be able to obtain NJ Pesticide license (Core / 3B) within 6 months of hire
• Should reside within reasonable commuting distance of Bridgewater, NJ or willing to relocate at own expense
• Professional appearance, character, and conduct around staff, fans, players, and VIPs
• Must be able to handle physical requirements of job
• Adherence to company handbook and MLB policies