Senior Turfgrass Technician: Lead Grounds & Irrigation

Longwood Gardens; Kennett Square (Chester County); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA is seeking a Senior Turfgrass Technician to maintain all turfgrass areas, apply pesticides, sod, seed, aerate, and assist with snow removal. The role reports to the Turfgrass Manager and includes training interns and seasonals, plus operating a range of equipment in all weather.

The ideal candidate has 2 years of groundskeeping experience, is safety‑minded, and can obtain necessary certifications within six months.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Turfgrass Management preferred but not required.
• 2 years of groundskeeping, golf course, or estate maintenance experience.
• Valid driver’s license (PA) and Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator license or willingness to obtain.
• Ability to obtain forklift operator training and aerial lift certification within six months.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and work in all weather conditions.
• Experience with soil tests, fertilization, and pesticide applications.
• Ability to work independently and in a team; strong organizational and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to turfgrass team members during projects.
• Train interns, students, and seasonals.
• Safely operate utility vehicles, mowers, trimmers, sprayers, spreaders, and tractors.
• Perform soil tests and apply fertilization and pesticides as needed.
• Identify and treat turfgrass pests.
• Maintain irrigation and water management systems.
• Operate power tools for edging pathways and landscape beds.
• Lead snow removal operations with snow blowers, brooms, and plows.
• Assist planting, mulching, and pruning; support seasonal programs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Education

Associate degree in Turfgrass Management

Tools

Forklift operation

Aerial lift certification

Job description

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA is seeking a Senior Turfgrass Technician to maintain all turfgrass areas, apply pesticides, sod, seed, aerate, and assist with snow removal. The role reports to the Turfgrass Manager and includes training interns and seasonals, plus operating a range of equipment in all weather.

The ideal candidate has 2 years of groundskeeping experience, is safety‑minded, and can obtain necessary certifications within six months.