Grounds Manager at Charleston Battery

Department: Operations / Facilities

Reports To: Director of Operations (or Stadium Operations Manager)

Status: Full-Time

Position Summary

The Grounds Manager is responsible for the overall maintenance, preparation, and presentation of all playing surfaces and surrounding grounds to ensure safe, high-quality conditions for training, matches, and special events. This role plays a critical part in player safety, competitive performance, and the overall fan experience.

Key Responsibilities

Field & Surface Management

• Oversee daily maintenance of natural grass, hybrid, or artificial turf playing surfaces.
• Ensure all fields meet league, safety, and performance standards.
• Manage mowing, aeration, fertilization, irrigation, topdressing, painting, and field layout.
• Prepare fields for matches, training sessions, tournaments, and special events.
• Monitor turf health, drainage, compaction, and wear patterns; implement corrective plans as needed.
  
  

Event & Match Day Operations

• Lead all field preparation for home matches and events, including timelines and staffing plans.
• Coordinate with coaching staff, operations, and league officials on field requirements.
• Be present on match days to address field-related issues before, during, and after events.
  
  

Staff & Vendor Management

• Hire, train, and supervise grounds crew (full-time, part-time, and seasonal).
• Schedule staff to support daily maintenance and event needs.
• Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and suppliers.
  
  

Equipment & Inventory

• Maintain and operate all grounds equipment (mowers, tractors, aerators, sprayers, etc.).
• Develop preventative maintenance schedules for equipment.
• Manage inventory of supplies and materials; order as needed within budget.
  
  

Budgeting & Planning

• Assist in developing and managing the annual grounds maintenance budget.
• Track expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or safety.
• Support long-term planning for field renovations, turf replacement, and infrastructure upgrades.
  
  

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with league regulations, local codes, and safety standards.
• Maintain proper handling and storage of chemicals, fertilizers, and equipment.
• Implement best practices for workplace safety and environmental stewardship.
  
  

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of experience in sports turf management, groundskeeping, or related field (professional or collegiate athletics preferred).
• Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• Strong knowledge of turfgrass species, soil science, irrigation systems, and pest management.
• Experience managing staff and coordinating event-based operations.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  
  

Preferred Certifications

• Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) or ability to obtain
• Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain)
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and operate heavy equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  
  

Key Success Indicators

• Safe, consistent, and high-performing playing surfaces
• Compliance with league and safety standards
• Efficient budget management
• Strong coordination with coaching and operations staff
• Positive feedback from players, staff, and league officials