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Posted: 29-Apr-26
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Type: Full-time
Salary: $43,929 - $45,914 annually
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Salary Details:
The University of Colorado Boulder Athletic Department encourages applications for a Turf Groundskeeper to join the Turf Management team! This role joins a team responsible for the maintenance and preparation of athletic facilities for practices, competitions, and special events. Preparations of these facilities are in accordance with all National Collegiate Athletic Association and Conference rules and regulations and are established through environmentally sound cultural practices that promote safe playing conditions. This position will assist the Director of Athletic Grounds and primary facility contacts in the day-to-day turf management operations of all athletic facilities in preparation for practices, competitions, and special events.
This position is responsible for promoting the philosophy and objectives of the intercollegiate athletics program. This shall include adhering to the principles of the Athletics Department’s Mission Statement, Core Values, Policies and Procedures, as well as the rules and regulations of the University, the Conference, and the NCAA.
Who We Are
As one of 34 U.S. public research institutions belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU)—and the only member in the Rocky Mountain region—our goal at CU Boulder is to directly affect Colorado communities through collaborative research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Our faculty, staff, and students work with the broader community to establish outstanding connections that have lasting outcomes-both across Colorado and around the world.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
Turf Management: Assist with maintenance/preparation of all athletic facilities for practices, competitions, and special events. Assist in the execution of the turf management maintenance schedule. Assist with irrigation repairs; fertilizer/seed applications; and field renovations. Operate equipment including, mowers, trimmers, edgers, blowers, hand and power tools, utility vehicles, tractors, spreaders, aerifyers, and others pertaining to turfgrass maintenance. Complete sound cultural practices to ensure turfgrass health and student athlete safety. Identify and address all immediate issues regarding the athletic field or facility including: remove/repair vandalism, irrigation system, field heating system, and disease and drought stresses. Determine which piece of equipment is most appropriate for a given area to complete the desired work. Determine turf areas needing additional seeding and more or less fertilizing; rates for overseeding in turf areas; if areas are too wet or too dry to apply cultural practices. Address mechanical problems that occasionally occur with equipment.
Event Preparation: Assist with the preparation of facilities for practices, competitions, and special events. This includes athletic field layout and field/logo painting, site set-up, and general cleaning. Assist with the installation of field protection system for special events (concerts, graduations, etc.).
Snow and Ice Removal: Remove snow and ice from athletic fields and Athletic Department facilities, including sidewalks, entrances, stairs, and loading docks. Apply ice melt chemical to facility areas as needed. Complete snow removal from fields and facilities in preparation of practices and competitions using a variety of equipment, including shovels, utility vehicles, tractors, and skid steers.
Vehicle/Equipment Maintenance, Storage, Auxiliary Events, and assigned field preparation: Implement preventative maintenance schedule for all turf maintenance equipment, including mowers, trimmers, utility vehicles, tractors, blowers, edgers, etc. Perform minor maintenance repairs on equipment or vehicles including changing and sharpening rotary blades, changing aeration tines, changing engine oil and filters, and greasing fittings. Diagnose equipment problems and repair if capable, if not, connect with supervisor to arrange for professional maintenance. Conduct routine inspections of equipment and storage areas. Complete field layout and field painting for the university marching band. Complete court layout, court taping, and placement of basketball hoops for Athletic Department basketball camps. Complete preparation of facilities for events sponsored by the Athletic Department at sites off campus rented by the Athletic Department. Assist/complete painting at Colorado National Golf Course. Assist with facility/field preparation for assigned sport practices and competitions.
Safety: Contribute to a safe working environment for self, co-workers, students, faculty, staff, and the general public. Adhere to safety guidelines, especially concerning equipment operation and the use of personal protective equipment. Determine safe site location, level, and provide safety information for scissor lifts used by television crews and staff members. Monitor weather conditions to determine a safe working height and communicate to personnel in scissor lifts.
What You Should Know
- This role works Monday through Friday 6:30 am - 3:00 pm, fully onsite. This role will work extended hours, weekends, and holidays for events.
What We Can Offer
The salary range is $43,929 - $45,914 annually.
Additional Compensation Details:
- Relocation assistance is available within department guidelines.
Additional Athletics benefits include:
- Athletic Event Tickets: Per Athletic Department Policy and NCAA regulations,
- Nike Elite Employee Benefit: Per Nike Elite Policy.
Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
What We Require
- One year of progressively responsible experience in the maintenance of athletic fields.
- Valid Driver's License
- Ability and willingness to work significant and irregular hours which includes all home football games, concerts and other athletic and special events.
What You Will Need
- Turf management equipment operation.
- Understanding of athletic field management.
What We Would Like You to Have
- Associates degree (or equivalent experience) in turf management or similar field.
- A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in the maintenance of athletic fields at the collegiate level or higher.
Special Instructions
- A current resume.
- A cover letter that specifically tells us how your background and experience align with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position.
Essential Services
This position is designated “essential services.” The incumbent is required to respond to requests for work during campus emergencies (snow, wind, rain, flood and any other natural or man-made event) and report to work for his / her regularly assigned shift during emergency campus closures.
