Director of Sports Turf, Grounds, and Landscape

Director of Sports Turf, Grounds, and Landscape

Athletic Department 
University of Nebraska–Lincoln

The Director of Sports Turf, Grounds, and Landscape is responsible for overseeing all aspects of Nebraska Athletics’ competitive fields, grounds, and venue site presentation and landscaping. This role ensures that all playing surfaces, natural and artificial, and associated features are maintained to the highest standard for performance and safety. The position supervises a team of grounds and turf staff, collaborates with coaches and facility staff, and ensures compliance with industry standards and best practices. The selected candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.  Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field and 5 years experience managing natural and synthetic sports fields. Proven ability to oversee and lead a team in a professional or Division I collegiate athletics setting. In-depth knowledge of turf management practices for both natural and artificial surfaces, including synthetic turf , Tahoma 31, and Kentucky Bluegrass. Strong understanding of irrigation systems, field drainage, and pest control techniques. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with coaches, staff, and external partners. Ability to obtain State of Nebraska Pesticide Applicators Certificate/License within 6 months of employment.  Preferred qualifications: Experience managing turf and grounds at a Power 4 (P4) collegiate or professional sports organization (e.g., NFL, MLB). Familiarity with NCAA and professional field compliance standards. Certification in Sports Field Management (CSFM) or equivalent. State of Nebraska Pesticide Applicators Certificate/License.  Criminal history background check will be conducted. Excellent benefits including staff/dependent scholarship program. Applicant review begins March 4. View requisition S_250151 at https://employment.unl.edu to apply. As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.