Director, Athletics Fields

Job Summary

Responsible for the leadership, planning, and execution of all athletic field operations to ensure safe, high quality, and regulation compliant playing surfaces for all athletic programs and special events. Oversees comprehensive turf maintenance programs, staff and budget management, and vendor partnerships while ensuring adherence to NCAA, conference, university, and University System of Georgia policies, procedures, regulations, safety standards, and industry best practices.

Responsibilities

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Develops and implements a comprehensive turf maintenance program including fertilization schedule and cultural practices
2. Oversees all aspects of athletics fields management including field lining and logo painting according to specifications of each sport
3. Responsible for budget management, forecasting and financial processes
4. Responsible for the management of equipment, such as tractors, mowers, game supplies, turf materials, etc.
5. Manages the hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management of assigned staff and turf maintenance crews
6. Coordinates regular inspections of playing surfaces to identify and address any safety hazards or maintenance needs. Enforce safety protocols and standards set by the NCAA
7. Leads all event preparation and ensures all fields meet the specific sport requirements for games and special events and optimal playing conditions to prevent injuries
8. Serves as the administrator of special projects, overseeing field conversions, new installations, and/or major renovations
9. Oversees vendor performance to ensure timely and effective fulfillment of responsibilities, guaranteeing that all playing surfaces are maintained in excellent condition

Required Qualifications

Educational Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.

Other Required Qualifications

Current valid, unrestricted driver's license
Sports Turf Managers Association certification

Required Experience

Five (5) years of experience in groundskeeping, turf management, landscaping and/or lawn care business or related field.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Educational Qualifications

An undergraduate or advanced degree from an accredited institution of higher education in a related field

Preferred Experience

NCAA turf management experience

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

ABILITIES

• Able to stay update to date on industry best practices and regulations related to sports field safety and incorporate them into field management strategies
• Establishes, develops, and maintains effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Able to handle multiple tasks or projects at one time meeting assigned deadlines

KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledge of best methods for turf and landscaping maintenance
• Understanding and implementation of safety protocols specific to athletics fields, aligned with established standards

SKILLS

• Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem solving, independent judgment, organization, communication (verbal and written), time management, project management and presentation skills
• Expertise in designing and implementing customized fertilizer programs
• Proficient in conducting detailed surveys and grading analyses of athletics fields
• Proficient in techniques to achieve precise field leveling and grading
• Proficient with computer applications and programs associated with the position (i.e., Microsoft Office suite)
• Strong attention to detail and follow up skills
• Strong customer service skills and phone and e-mail etiquette