Turfgrass Research Center Operations Lead

Genesis Distribution; Blacksburg (VA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Turfgrass Research Center Manager at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg coordinates maintenance and operations for the TRC’s research plots, equipment, and infrastructure to enable high-quality turfgrass research and outreach.

This role leads turfgrass management practices, supervises personnel, oversees chemical inventories, and ensures compliance with OSHA, FIFRA and VDCR standards while collaborating with faculty, staff, students and industry partners.

Qualifications

• Four-year degree in turfgrass science, horticulture, agricultural sciences, or related field.
• Working knowledge of turfgrass management and ability to operate turf equipment safely (mowers, sprayers, aerators, construction equipment).
• Ability to coordinate daily, weekly, and seasonal tasks with faculty, students, and technical staff.
• Computer skills for record keeping, budgeting, inventory management, and data reporting.

Responsibilities

• Provide managerial oversight for TRC operations and turfgrass research facilities.
• Coordinate maintenance of research plots, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Oversee budgets, procurement, and facility planning.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance (OSHA, FIFRA, VDCR).
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and industry partners.

Skills

Turfgrass management

Budgeting

Record keeping

Data reporting

Team supervision

Driver's license

OSHA compliance

FIFRA compliance

Pesticide license

Communication with faculty

Education

Four-year degree in turfgrass science

Equivalent education/experience

Tools

Mowers

Sprayers

Aerators

Construction equipment

Irrigation systems

Job description

The Turfgrass Research Center Manager at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg coordinates maintenance and operations for the TRC’s research plots, equipment, and infrastructure to enable high-quality turfgrass research and outreach.

This role leads turfgrass management practices, supervises personnel, oversees chemical inventories, and ensures compliance with OSHA, FIFRA and VDCR standards while collaborating with faculty, staff, students and industry partners.