Director, Turf & Grounds

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and perform daily maintenance of natural grass and synthetic turf fields, including mowing, fertilization, irrigation, aeration, topdressing, sod repair, and snow removal.
• Conduct routine field inspections, safety testing, and performance assessments to ensure optimal playing conditions.
• Collect and analyze field data to support maintenance decisions and long-term turf health.
• Execute precise field painting, lining, and layout preparations for training sessions and special events in accordance with NWSL, FIFA, and other professional standards.
• Ensure fields remain safe, playable, and accessible during inclement weather, including snow and ice events.

Agronomic Planning & Turf Health

• Responsible for the development and execution of annual and long-range agronomic programs.
• Monitor turfgrass, soil, and environmental conditions through testing and analysis.
• Implement strategies that enhance turf durability, wear tolerance, disease prevention, and pest management.
• Stay current on industry trends, technologies, and best practices to continuously improve field quality and sustainability.

Leadership & Staff Development

• Recruit, train, schedule, supervise, and mentor full-time, part-time, and seasonal grounds staff.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, inclusion, and professional development.
• Establish and maintain safety protocols and ensure compliance with all applicable workplace standards.

Equipment & Facility Operations

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, storage, and repair of all groundskeeping equipment and tools.
• Ensure staff receive proper equipment training and follow safe operating procedures.
• Maintain irrigation systems and support field infrastructure, including drainage systems, root zones, and heating systems.

Collaboration & Event Support

• Partner closely with coaching, performance, and club leadership teams to align field conditions with training and operational needs.
• Coordinate with external vendors, contractors, and facility users regarding field requirements, setup, and breakdown activities.
• Provide exceptional service while maintaining a customer-first approach to all facility stakeholders.

Inventory & Budget Administration

• Track and manage inventories of equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Lead budget planning and monitor expenditures to ensure efficient use of resources.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions throughout the year.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, holidays, and during inclement weather events as needed.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, stoop, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Required Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field; or equivalent Turfgrass Management certification.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience managing high-use sports turf, including experience in professional sports environments.
• Working knowledge of field construction and maintenance, including: Irrigation systems, Drainage systems, Rootzone management, Synthetic turf systems, Field heating systems.
• Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain and maintain one) and ability to meet company driving requirements.
• New Jersey Pesticide licenses.

Preferred Qualification

• Experience managing third-party contractors and vendors.
• Experience in professional soccer, including NWSL, MLS, national teams, or other first-division environments.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of turfgrass management principles and practices.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and industry best practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and budget management.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to plan and execute safe, efficient, and budget-conscious operations and events.
• Proven problem-solving and decision-making abilities in dynamic environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Able and willing to work non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.