Turfgrass Scientist

Also called: Turf Agronomist

Researches grasses, soils, and pests to grow better sports fields and golf courses.

A day in the life

They run test plots at universities, study drought-tolerant grass varieties, and advise golf courses and stadiums. Some work for seed and fertilizer companies.

Pay over a career

Starting
$50k
Typical
$75k
High
$120k

Based on BLS soil and plant scientists, May 2024 estimates.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Master's degree, about 6 years after high school. Master's or PhD in turfgrass science, agronomy, or soil science.

Ways in: Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.

Majors to look at: Turfgrass Science, Agronomy, Soil Science.

Outlook

Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years). About average growth.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI helps analyze plot and sensor data; field trials and research design stay human-led.

Start now, in high school

Classes: AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science.

Official data: O*NET occupation 19-1013.

More Venues, Turf & Equipment careers

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.