DC United
Overview
D.C. United is seeking an experienced and motivated
Manager of Grounds
to oversee the maintenance and care of the natural grass playing surface and landscape areas at
Audi Field , home of D.C. United, the Washington Spirit, and the D.C. Defenders. This role is responsible for producing and maintaining world-class playing surfaces that are both safe and aesthetically exceptional for Major League Soccer matches, professional trainings, and a variety of special events. The ideal candidate will combine strong turfgrass expertise with leadership skills to guide a team in executing daily and seasonal maintenance programs, while ensuring that the facility meets the highest professional standards. Key Responsibilities
Field & Landscape Maintenance
Develop and implement annual and daily maintenance plans in coordination with the Director of Grounds. Oversee all aspects of
irrigation systems , including scheduling, operation, troubleshooting, and repair. Perform and direct advanced turfgrass practices such as aeration, verticutting, topdressing, sod work, and grow cover management. Monitor and utilize
SGL grow lights
and other turf enhancement tools. Manage the upkeep of surrounding landscape areas, ensuring they reflect the professional image of Audi Field. Leadership & Staff Development
Supervise and provide direction to full-time, part-time, and seasonal field maintenance staff. Train and mentor staff on safe equipment use, field maintenance techniques, and gameday responsibilities. Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and pride in field presentation. Event & Facility Operations
Coordinate gameday field setup, painting, and breakdown for soccer, football, rugby, and other field layouts. Construct, repair, and maintain goal structures and other field equipment. Work collaboratively with operations and event departments to prepare and adjust field schedules around matches, trainings, and special events. Ensure all surfaces are compliant with professional league standards and ready for use on time. Planning & Agronomy
Assist the Director of Grounds with long-term agronomic planning and execution of turf management programs. Utilize field-testing equipment to monitor turf health, soil conditions, and moisture levels, adjusting maintenance practices as needed. Recommend and apply solutions for turf recovery, disease prevention, and pest control. Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or certificate in
Turfgrass Management , Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field (or equivalent experience). Minimum of
4 years of professional turf management experience , preferably in professional or collegiate sports facilities. Proven ability to manage irrigation systems and advanced turf maintenance equipment. Strong
time management, planning, and organizational skills
with the ability to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to manage a diverse team. Eligible to obtain necessary
pesticide and fertilizer certifications . Physical Demands
Ability to lift at least
50 lbs.
and perform physically demanding tasks. Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow. Ability to stand, kneel, and work in a variety of physical positions for extended periods. Flexibility to work
nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours
as required by match and event schedules.
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D.C. United is seeking an experienced and motivated
Manager of Grounds
to oversee the maintenance and care of the natural grass playing surface and landscape areas at
Audi Field , home of D.C. United, the Washington Spirit, and the D.C. Defenders. This role is responsible for producing and maintaining world-class playing surfaces that are both safe and aesthetically exceptional for Major League Soccer matches, professional trainings, and a variety of special events. The ideal candidate will combine strong turfgrass expertise with leadership skills to guide a team in executing daily and seasonal maintenance programs, while ensuring that the facility meets the highest professional standards. Key Responsibilities
Field & Landscape Maintenance
Develop and implement annual and daily maintenance plans in coordination with the Director of Grounds. Oversee all aspects of
irrigation systems , including scheduling, operation, troubleshooting, and repair. Perform and direct advanced turfgrass practices such as aeration, verticutting, topdressing, sod work, and grow cover management. Monitor and utilize
SGL grow lights
and other turf enhancement tools. Manage the upkeep of surrounding landscape areas, ensuring they reflect the professional image of Audi Field. Leadership & Staff Development
Supervise and provide direction to full-time, part-time, and seasonal field maintenance staff. Train and mentor staff on safe equipment use, field maintenance techniques, and gameday responsibilities. Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and pride in field presentation. Event & Facility Operations
Coordinate gameday field setup, painting, and breakdown for soccer, football, rugby, and other field layouts. Construct, repair, and maintain goal structures and other field equipment. Work collaboratively with operations and event departments to prepare and adjust field schedules around matches, trainings, and special events. Ensure all surfaces are compliant with professional league standards and ready for use on time. Planning & Agronomy
Assist the Director of Grounds with long-term agronomic planning and execution of turf management programs. Utilize field-testing equipment to monitor turf health, soil conditions, and moisture levels, adjusting maintenance practices as needed. Recommend and apply solutions for turf recovery, disease prevention, and pest control. Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or certificate in
Turfgrass Management , Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field (or equivalent experience). Minimum of
4 years of professional turf management experience , preferably in professional or collegiate sports facilities. Proven ability to manage irrigation systems and advanced turf maintenance equipment. Strong
time management, planning, and organizational skills
with the ability to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to manage a diverse team. Eligible to obtain necessary
pesticide and fertilizer certifications . Physical Demands
Ability to lift at least
50 lbs.
and perform physically demanding tasks. Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow. Ability to stand, kneel, and work in a variety of physical positions for extended periods. Flexibility to work
nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours
as required by match and event schedules.
#J-18808-Ljbffr