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"Director, Sports Turf"

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Director, Sports Turf

Director

March 28, 2026

Location

Stanford, CA

Stanford University

Type

Full-time Staff / Administration

Salary

$151,297–$175,000 per annum

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s in Turfgrass Management or equivalent
2+ years managing facilities operations/staff
6+ years sports turf management (preferred)
Qualified Applicator Certification (required)
Strong organizational & communication skills
Knowledge of field trends & technologies
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Director, Sports Turf

Welcome to Stanford’s Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation (“DAPER”), the premier intercollegiate athletics program in the country.

With an unparalleled record of 138 NCAA team championships, we are the proud Home of Champions. Our success isn’t just measured in trophies; it’s reflected in the passion of our nearly 900 student-athletes competing across 36 intercollegiate varsity teams. It resonates in our unwavering support for the university’s physical education, recreation, and wellness initiatives. At Stanford, we don’t just embrace excellence; we define it. We don’t just nurture champions; we create them. Our actions are guided by the core tenets of DAPER culture, “The DAPER Way,” which are: Embrace Scholar Athleticism, Pursue and Revere Excellence, Lead with Courage, and Work Cohesively.

Are you ready to inspire champions? If yes, then this may be the right opportunity for you!

We are seeking applicants for the position of Director, Sports Turf. Reporting to the Associate Athletics Director, Facilities and Capital Planning, you will oversee a staff of athletics groundskeepers and manage day-to-day turf management for all athletic playing fields for Stanford Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Oversee day to day sports turf operation, including maintenance planning, scheduling and staffing.
  • Develop strategic plans in equipment, staffing and water efficiency.
  • Oversee and/or monitor project activities; ensure integration with larger unit goals; coordinate with internal staff, subcontractors, and/or vendors.
  • Clarify and resolve problems spanning multiple areas or technical fields and/or develop programs within assigned facilities.
  • Oversee groundskeeper staffing and performance evaluation of assigned staff; contributing to department or division staffing needs forecast.
  • Manage and/or develop annual budget for sports turf unit, including staffing, maintenance, contracts, etc.
  • Manage ongoing service contracts with third parties as applicable.
  • Participate in department/unit strategic management, including making recommendations involving short- term planning for facility-type projects and for longer-range programs/projects;
  • Research and report latest innovations in field maintenance and irrigation
  • Other duties may also be assigned

To be successful in this position, you will bring:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management or other appropriate technical area, or combination of education training, and experience. Two or more years of experience managing facilities operations and maintenance staff.
  • Six or more years of sports turf management experience is preferred.
  • Required to have Qualified Applicator Certification; Qualified Applicator License, or an ability to obtain a QAL preferred.
  • Great communications and positive relationships with outside groups, students, faculty, staff.
  • Outstanding organizational and communication skills in a fast paced environment
  • Must have the ability to work on deadlines and handle several responsibilities simultaneously.
  • Strong knowledge of current field trends and technologies
  • Significant independent judgment and self-motivation

How to apply:

Please include a cover letter, resume, and three (3) references submitted as a single attachment with your application. All applications must be submitted via Stanford’s Careers webpage.

The expected pay range for this position is $151,297– $175,000 per annum.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees.

Tell them AcademicJobs.com sent you!

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for the Director, Sports Turf position at Stanford?

To succeed, candidates need a Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management or equivalent, plus 2+ years managing facilities operations and maintenance staff. Preferred: 6+ years sports turf management experience. Qualified Applicator Certification is required; QAL preferred. Strong communication skills, organizational abilities, and knowledge of field trends are essential. Explore more administration jobs or CV tips.

💰What is the salary range for Stanford's Director, Sports Turf role?

The expected pay range is $151,297–$175,000 per annum, based on qualifications, scope, and market factors. Stanford offers comprehensive benefits; see details on their Cardinal at Work site. Compare with university salaries.

🔧What are the main responsibilities of the Sports Turf Director?

Oversee daily sports turf operations including maintenance, scheduling, and staffing. Develop plans for equipment, staffing, and water efficiency. Manage budgets, contracts, projects, and staff evaluations. Research field maintenance innovations and irrigation. View similar roles in higher ed admin jobs.

📝How do I apply for the Director, Sports Turf job at Stanford?

Submit a cover letter, resume, and 3 references as one attachment via Stanford’s Careers webpage. Applications due by March 28, 2026. Prepare using our free resume template and cover letter template.

Does this role require specific certifications or experience in athletics facilities?

Yes, Qualified Applicator Certification is required, with QAL preferred. 2+ years facilities management and preferably 6+ years sports turf experience. Ideal for those with athletics groundskeeping background. Check executive jobs for similar opportunities.

🏟️What is the work environment like in Stanford DAPER?

Part of the premier Stanford Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation (DAPER) with 138 NCAA championships. Fast-paced, focused on excellence, scholar athleticism, and "The DAPER Way." Manage turf for 36 varsity teams. Learn about Ivy League athletics.
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