Also called: Head Groundskeeper, Director of Grounds
Keeps the playing field perfect at stadiums, ballparks, and college fields.
They mow in patterns, paint lines and logos, manage irrigation, and fix divots after games. At ballparks, they drag and water the infield between innings. Weather and concerts on the field are constant challenges.
Estimate. MLB and NFL head groundskeepers earn the most.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's or associate in turfgrass science; Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM).
Ways in: 4-year college, 2-year college, Certification. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Turfgrass Science, Horticulture, Agronomy.
Growing about average. Steady.
Low risk for 10 years. Sensors, robot line-painters and mowers help crews; agronomy decisions and outdoor fieldwork stay human.
Classes: Biology, Agriculture or FFA, Chemistry.
Official data: O*NET occupation 37-1012.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.