Iowa SFMA Job Postings

Turfgrass Research Scientist | Iowa State University

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 13:46:04 GMT

Position Title: Turfgrass Research Scientist

Job Group: Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree

Job Description:

The Department of Horticulture in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking a Turfgrass Research Scientist to help advance nationally recognized turfgrass program focused on athletic field safety, golf course management, sports turf performance, turfgrass adaptation, and sustainable management practices.

This position offers a unique blend of outdoor field research, laboratory work, equipment operation, data analysis, and scientific collaboration. Working alongside faculty, students, and industry partners, you'll conduct research that improves the safety, performance, and management of athletic fields, golf courses, parks, and other managed turf systems.

Whether your goal is to become a leader in the turfgrass industry or pursue graduate education, this position provides an exceptional opportunity to develop technical expertise, gain hands-on research experience, and explore innovative ideas in a collaborative environment where learning through experimentation is encouraged.

Key Responsibilities

Coordinate and execute applied turfgrass field research by preparing research sites, implementing experimental protocols, scheduling field activities, and overseeing student employees.
Establish, maintain, and evaluate turfgrass research plots through mowing, irrigation management, fertilizer and pesticide applications, and cultivation practices.
Collect, document, and manage research data, including plant and soil samples, turfgrass quality and color ratings, weed assessments, soil moisture measurements, and surface hardness and stability testing.
Assist in developing and refining research methods and protocols, maintain research databases, perform data quality control, and conduct statistical analyses.
Collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to support research projects, scientific publications, grant proposals, field demonstrations, and extension and outreach activities.
Present research findings at field days, scientific conferences, and industry meetings, prepare educational displays and demonstration plots, and provide tours of research facilities for visitors and stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related field.
Experience establishing, maintaining, and managing turfgrass research plots or production systems, including irrigation management.
Experience operating, calibrating, troubleshooting, and maintaining turfgrass or agricultural equipment.
Experience collecting, managing, and analyzing research data.
Experience applying fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides, or other crop protection products in accordance with research protocols and applicable regulations.
Experience presenting research findings, contributing to scientific publications, or supporting extension and outreach activities.

Why Join Iowa State University?

This position has served as a launching point for many early-career turfgrass professionals. Former Research Scientists have gone on to earn master's and doctoral degrees or build successful careers in the turfgrass industry. You'll have opportunities to lead applied research projects, present your work, contribute to publications, and develop the technical expertise needed for the next stage of your career.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

The selected candidate will be hired as a Research Scientist I.

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please CLICK HERE to view the complete job description and complete the Employment Application.

Golf & Sports Turf Project Manager, RJ Lawn & Landscape | Waukee, IA

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:19:02 GMT

Job Description:

RJ Lawn & Landscape is rapidly growing its Golf & Sports Turf Division, and we’re looking for an experienced Golf & Sports Turf Project Manager to help lead the way.

This is a hands-on, working project manager role. You’ll be on-site daily, leading crews, coordinating renovation projects, operating equipment when needed, and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to RJ’s quality standards. From golf course renovations to sports turf construction, you’ll manage multiple projects while serving as a key field leader and partner to the Golf & Sports Turf Manager.

This position is both an immediate need and long-term growth opportunity for an established turf or construction professional who enjoys field leadership and being part of a fast-growing team.

Key Responsibilities:
Manage golf course renovation tasks including grading, shaping, bunker construction, tee boxes, fairways, greens, etc.
Operate and maintain construction equipment (e.g., skid steers, trenchers, compactors, excavators, bulldozers, etc.).
Support drainage and irrigation installation efforts.
Follow site plans and instructions from project leads.
Maintain a clean and safe work environment, adhering to safety protocols.
Operate specialized equipment including laser grading, core sweepers, deep-tine aerators, etc.
Delegate project components to one or more construction, renovation, and/or turf crews on site.
Manage multiple projects and worksites on a daily basis.
Provide quality control assistance for the Golf & Sports Turf Manager.
Assist in maintaining customer relations with all RJ Golf & Sports Turf clients.
Facilitate onsite change orders with customers as necessary.
Assist in business development for RJ overall goals and ideal clients in the areas of sports turf, turf maintenance, landscape design/install, landscape maintenance, irrigation, fountains, and snow removal.
Required Qualifications:
Experience in sports field management, golf course management and maintenance, construction, or a combination of all the above.
Ability to operate or learn to operate heavy equipment.
Strong work ethic and ability to work outdoors in various conditions.
Team-oriented personality with good communication skills.
Willingness and ability to travel occasionally (travel expenses and stipends provided).
Preferred Qualifications:
Certifications from relevant organizations (e.g., PGA, GCSAA, STMA, etc.).
3OT Applicator’s license or qualifying comparable license.
Experience in commercial lawn and landscape services.
Lawn and landscape or golf and sports turf account management.
Construction or turf crew management.
Compensation & Benefits:
$25.00 - $33.00 per hour
Health Insurance Plan Options (minimum 50% paid by RJ for employee selection)
Life insurance & Long-Term Disability fully paid by RJ
Continuing education and licensure costs and dues
Simple individual retirement account with match by RJ
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays (6 Federal + Birthday)
Company cell phone
Required Documentation:
Clear Background21 Check
Valid Driver’s License
I-9 Verification
Reports To:
Golf & Sports Turf Manager
Operations Manager

To apply, contact Nate Tegtmeier at natet@rjgolfandsportsturf.com

Stadium Groundskeeper - BU | Cincinnati, Ohio

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:35:45 GMT

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT:
Position: Stadium Groundskeeper - BU
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Job ID: 4711-68
CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Your Benefits of Working for Hamilton County!

Starting Pay: $24.26 per hour
Generous Paid Time Off: 11 Paid Holidays, three weeks of vacation in the first year, immediately accruing paid sick time, and paid parental leave.
Ohio Public Employee Retirement System which includes 14% Employer Contribution and a defined benefit option.
Highly Competitive and Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, HRA, Dental, Vision, Employer-Paid Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability, Tuition Reimbursement, Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility, Free On-Site Parking, Wellness Incentives, robust Employee Assistance Program, access to Free Medical and Rx through Marathon Health, plus expansive Behavioral and Mental Health Resources, and More!

We serve the residents of Hamilton County in more ways than you may realize!
As a Groundskeeper, you will play a vital role in maintaining the fields and grounds at Paycor Stadium, a world-class venue that hosts professional sports, concerts, and major community events. This position is responsible for maintaining NFL-quality playing surfaces, landscaping the stadium complex, and assisting with event-day field preparation to ensure the facility is safe, functional, and visually outstanding. Working as part of the Stadium Grounds team, you will help protect county facilities and support events enjoyed by thousands of fans and visitors throughout the year. Join a team committed to operational excellence, public service, and delivering exceptional experiences for the community.

Summary of Job Duties:

Maintain natural and artificial playing fields and surrounding stadium grounds.
Perform landscaping tasks including mowing, edging, planting, trimming, mulching, and watering.
Remove weeds, maintain flower beds, and plant grass, shrubs, trees, and other landscape materials.
Operate grounds maintenance equipment such as tractors, mowers, edgers, chainsaws, snow blowers, and other tools.
Assist with event-day field preparation including painting fields, installing goal posts, benches, pylons, and other equipment.
Support stadium events by preparing and maintaining the playing surface and surrounding areas.
Perform snow and ice removal from walkways, driveways, and parking areas.
Assist with maintenance of artificial turf fields, including cleaning, disinfecting, and routine turf maintenance.
Perform basic maintenance repairs and assist with facility upkeep as needed.
Collect and remove trash and debris from stadium grounds.
Follow safety procedures and report any maintenance or safety concerns to supervisors.
Attend required meetings, trainings, and departmental events.

Minimum Qualifications:

Valid Driver’s License (issued by state of residency)
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or related field preferred.
Ability to operate grounds maintenance equipment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Associate’s degree in horticulture, agronomy, or related field.
Ability to obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s License.

Working Conditions

Work performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Requires lifting, bending, standing, and performing physical labor for extended periods of time.
May require work during evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.

Work Location and Hours:

3 Paycor Stadium Cincinnati, OH 45202
40-hour work week, generally between core hours of 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM, with occasional evenings, weekends, or event support as needed.

Deadline to Apply: Open Until Filled

Be part of our Team! We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law. We are a second-chance employer and a recovery friendly workplace.

Mechanic / Turf Equipment Technician | Grimes, IA

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:58:46 GMT

MTI Distributing, Inc., a subsidiary of The Toro Company, is the Upper Midwest’s leading supplier of products and services to the green industries. Through a combination of exceptional products and superior service, MTI is in the business of providing landscape beautification solutions to golf courses, schools, municipalities, landscape contractors, and independent dealers.

We currently have an opening for a Turf Equipment Technician in our Grimes, Iowa location. The successful candidate will be an outstanding mechanic with above average diagnostic, hydraulic, electrical and mechanical skills. The position is full-time, Monday - Friday, 1st shift. $28 - 35 / hour DOE

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Set up equipment per manufacturer and customer specifications.
Install necessary parts, check fluid levels, test and assure proper operation.
Operate and test equipment to ensure quality standards are met.
Safely and effectively use all service and repair tools: hoist, welder, test equipment, pressure washer, compressors, power tools etc.
Safely operate a forklift.
Maintain cleanliness and safety of shop area.
Effectively work within a team to meet customer needs
MTI provides specialized tools specific to our products, however the successful candidate provides his/her own hand and power tools.

Education and/or Experience

Technical degree (2yr.) or equivalent experience required.
Demonstrated experience and effectiveness in diagnosing problems with gas and diesel engines, hydraulics and electrical systems.
Computer Skills: Microsoft Office, Parts based lookup tools, Diagnostic Software
Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 75 pounds.
Strong customer service/communication skills.

MTI offers a competitive salary; based upon the qualifications of the selected candidate. Our benefit program includes: 401(k), medical, dental, vision disability and life insurance, PTO and holiday pay. Candidates will be subject to pre-employment background check, drug screen, and physical.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

CLICK HERE to apply

Mobile Mechanic / Turf Equipment Technician | Quad Cities

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:56:32 GMT

We currently have an opening for a Mobile Turf Equipment Technician in the Quad Cities area. The successful candidate will be an outstanding mechanic with above average diagnostic, hydraulic, electrical and mechanical skills.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Service, diagnose, and repair equipment professionally, accurately, and timely.
Install necessary parts, check fluid levels, test and ensure proper operation.
Provide professional communication and appearance while exhibiting good customer service skills with all customers.
Work independently at customer locations, professionally representing MTI.
Accurately follow work instructions.
Complete necessary paperwork accurately and in a timely manner.
Document work properly performed, and parts used to perform repair.
Maintain vehicle, keep clean, organized, and in proper working order.
Safely and effectively use all service and repair tools: hoist, welder, test equipment, pressure washer, compressors, power tools, etc.
Safely use forklift.
Work as a team in successfully completing the job.
MTI provides specialized tools specific to our products, however the successful candidate provides his/her own hand and power tools.

Education and/or Experience

High School diploma or equivalent.
Technical degree (2yr.) or equivalent experience required.
Factory training and product knowledge preferred.
Possess the ability to recognize problems and initiate a solution.
Possess strong customer service/communication skills.
Computer Skills: Microsoft Office, Parts based lookup tools, Diagnostic Software
Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 75 pounds.
Must supply own tools.
Ability to travel within the territory.
Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Non-CDL drivers are subject to the DOT medical exam requirement and must have or obtain a valid medical certificate (DOT medical card).

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; drive; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. There is frequent holding and grasping with the hands. Lift, push, and pull up to 75 lbs. required on a regular basis. The employee will drive a company vehicle.

Work Environment

Work is performed indoors in a shop environment and outdoors on equipment. There is exposure to loud noise levels, vibration, chemicals, dust, mechanical hazards, and moving objects or other vehicles. May be exposed to cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, chemicals, mechanical hazards, and hazardous physical substances, gas and/or fumes.

Salary $34 - $38 / hour, based upon the qualifications of the selected candidate. Our benefit program includes: 401(k), medical, dental, vision disability and life insurance, PTO and holiday pay.

Candidates will be subject to pre-employment background check, drug screen, and physical.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

CLICK HERE to apply