Athletic Field Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of sports, the demand for Athletic Field Technicians is steadily on the rise.

As athletics continue to evolve, the need for skilled professionals who can maintain, repair, and ensure the safety of our sporting arenas grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an Athletic Field Technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager shaping the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes operations of athletic field maintenance,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Athletic Field Technician job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Athletic Field Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Athletic Field Technicians are primarily responsible for the maintenance and preparation of sports fields and facilities.

They ensure the safety and playability of the fields by managing turf maintenance, field lines painting, and equipment setup.

Athletic Field Technicians have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Inspect sports fields and facilities for potential hazards or damages
• Perform maintenance tasks such as mowing, fertilizing, aerating, and irrigating turf
• Mark field lines according to specific sports regulations
• Set up and dismantle sports equipment before and after events
• Maintain cleanliness of the athletic facilities including restrooms, bleachers, and locker rooms
• Assist with weather preparation and damage control such as snow removal or storm cleanups
• Operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment
• Work in compliance with safety procedures and usage of personal protective equipment
• Report on field or equipment issues and perform necessary repairs or replacements
• Collaborate with groundskeeping, maintenance, or sports management team for larger projects and renovations

 

Athletic Field Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Athletic Field Technician to maintain and improve our sports fields.

The responsibilities of this role include inspecting fields, performing routine maintenance tasks, applying fertilizers, and ensuring the safety of all field equipment.

The ideal candidate is a hardworking individual with a strong knowledge of field maintenance and turf management.

Ultimately, the Athletic Field Technician will ensure our athletic fields are in top condition for sports events and games.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance tasks such as mowing, aerating, and lining fields.
• Apply fertilizers and other chemicals in accordance with safety regulations.
• Inspect fields regularly and report any issues.
• Ensure all field equipment is in safe and working condition.
• Prepare fields for games and special events.
• Coordinate with sports directors and coaches for specific field requirements.
• Follow weather reports closely to manage field conditions.
• Adhere to field maintenance budget and report any overspendings.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Athletic Field Technician or similar role.
• Knowledge of turf management and field maintenance.
• Ability to operate maintenance equipment such as mowers, aerators, etc.
• Familiarity with safety regulations regarding fertilizer and chemical application.
• Physically able to perform maintenance tasks and lift heavy equipment.
• Good organizational and communication skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent. A certification in Turf Management is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Athletic Field Technician
• Work Environment: Outdoor setting with exposure to various weather conditions. Some weekend and evening work may be required during sports seasons.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Groundskeeper Manager or Athletics Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Athletic Field Technician Do?

An Athletic Field Technician is a specialist in the maintenance and preparation of sports fields and other outdoor athletic facilities.

They work for sports teams, schools, colleges, universities, and recreational centers.

The key tasks of an Athletic Field Technician include mowing, watering, fertilizing, aerating, and otherwise maintaining the grass of athletic fields.

They ensure that the field is in optimal condition for sports events, which can involve painting or chalking boundary lines, setting up equipment, and inspecting the field for safety hazards.

In addition, an Athletic Field Technician might also be responsible for maintaining ancillary facilities such as tracks, tennis courts, and synthetic turf fields.

Their role often involves the use of specialized equipment, and they need to be knowledgeable about grass types, turf management, and pest control.

In case of adverse weather conditions, the Athletic Field Technician has to make decisions about playability and undertake any necessary repair work.

They also work closely with coaches and sports staff to understand their specific requirements and ensure the field meets the standards for various sports.

This role requires a blend of practical skills and a deep understanding of the needs of various sports.

The goal of an Athletic Field Technician is to provide a safe, high-quality playing surface for athletes.

 

Athletic Field Technician Qualifications and Skills

An Athletic Field Technician should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Practical knowledge of turf management and sports field maintenance including mowing, irrigation, fertilization and pest management.
• Ability to operate and maintain various types of machinery and equipment used in field maintenance such as mowers, tractors, and irrigation systems.
• Understanding of safety protocols to ensure the field conditions are safe for athletes and spectators.
• Physical stamina and strength to perform tasks like lifting heavy equipment, working outdoors in various weather conditions, and standing for extended periods.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly address any issues that might arise with the field or equipment and ensure minimal disruption to games or practices.
• Attention to detail for monitoring field conditions, ensuring the accuracy of lines and markers, and spotting potential hazards.
• Interpersonal skills to work with coaches, athletes, and other staff members to understand and meet their specific needs for the field.
• Basic knowledge of sports rules and regulations to ensure the field meets the required specifications for each sport.

 

Athletic Field Technician Experience Requirements

Entry-level Athletic Field Technician candidates often have experience gained through internships or part-time roles in sports field maintenance or horticulture, typically ranging from 1 to 2 years.

They also might have relevant experience from managing the maintenance of fields or grounds in schools or community parks.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience have usually developed their skills in areas such as turfgrass management, irrigation systems, and sports field equipment operation.

Additionally, they are typically adept at understanding field marking for multiple sports and have experience working with diverse teams.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have leadership skills gained from supervising staff, managing budgets, and coordinating with sports teams and other stakeholders.

They may also have advanced knowledge in pest management, turf diseases, and soil science.

These candidates are generally prepared for senior or managerial Athletic Field Technician roles.

 

Athletic Field Technician Education and Training Requirements

Athletic Field Technicians typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Many technicians also have associate or bachelor’s degrees in turf management, agronomy, horticulture, or related fields.

Courses in turf management, soil science, botany, landscape design, and equipment maintenance are particularly beneficial.

Practical experience, often gained through internships or seasonal work, is also highly valued.

Several vocational and technical schools, as well as community colleges, offer certificates or associate degrees in turf management or a related field.

These programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on fieldwork.

In addition to formal education, athletic field technicians should have a good knowledge of the sports being played on the fields they maintain.

This includes an understanding of how the game is played, the layout and marking of the field, and the specific turf needs for each sport.

While not always required, certification can demonstrate a technician’s competence and may improve job prospects.

The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA), for instance, offers the Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) credential.

Continuing education is important in this field, as athletic field technicians must stay up-to-date with advances in turf science and maintenance technology.

 

Athletic Field Technician Salary Expectations

An Athletic Field Technician can expect to earn an average salary of $37,440 (USD) per year.

The actual income can differ based on factors such as years of experience, certification, geographical location, and the employer’s scale.

 

Athletic Field Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Athletic Field Technician need?

Athletic Field Technicians need to be physically fit to handle the manual labor associated with maintaining athletic fields.

They need knowledge of different types of turfgrass, soil science, and irrigation systems.

They should have skills in operating various types of machinery used in field maintenance.

Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are also important, as they ensure the field conditions meet safety standards.

 

Do Athletic Field Technicians need a degree?

While having a degree is not necessarily required, some employers prefer technicians with a degree in turf management, agronomy, or a related field.

However, significant hands-on experience in field maintenance, along with appropriate certifications, can also be acceptable.

 

What should you look for in an Athletic Field Technician resume?

When hiring an Athletic Field Technician, look for experience in field maintenance, including operating and maintaining equipment, applying fertilizers and pesticides, and managing irrigation systems.

Certifications from recognized bodies in the field, such as the Sports Turf Managers Association, can also be an advantage.

Check for skills like problem-solving, time management, and physical endurance.

 

What qualities make a good Athletic Field Technician?

Good Athletic Field Technicians are detail-oriented, making sure all areas of the field are maintained properly for players’ safety.

They are physically fit, as the job often involves manual labor.

They should be good problem solvers, capable of diagnosing and fixing issues that may arise with the field or equipment.

An interest in sports can also be beneficial, as it can lead to a deeper understanding of the requirements of different athletic fields.

 

Are Athletic Field Technicians required to work on weekends?

Athletic Field Technicians often have to work on weekends, especially during the sports season when games or matches are typically scheduled.

The fields need to be in optimal condition for these events, which may require additional maintenance and preparation.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into what it truly means to be an Athletic Field Technician.

Guess what?

It’s not just about maintaining sports fields.

It’s about creating the perfect stage for athletes, one blade of grass at a time.

With our handy Athletic Field Technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every blade of grass is part of the bigger playfield.

Let’s create that stage. Together.

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