Assistant Director, Turf and Grounds

Description

U.S. Soccer Overview

The U.S. Soccer Federation exists in service to soccer. Our aim is to ignite a national passion for the game. Because we believe that soccer is more than a sport; it is a force for good.

We understand the importance and the power of teamwork, on and off the pitch. That is why we work closely with our Federation partners and members, to inspire, support and guide every level of the game: from the grassroots to the National Teams. We want to bring soccer into every home and every community, right across America. Because we believe that soccer can transform lives like no other sport. Soccer can represent the best of U.S.

U.S. Soccer is in a period of significant growth, with ambitions plans for U.S. Soccer in the near and far future. We are, therefore, looking for dynamic servant leaders to join us on this journey: in service to soccer. Applicants must be able to demonstrate visionary leadership, analytical decision-making, professional flexibility, and an empathic management style that builds bold teams and delivers globally significant results.

Position Description

US Soccer is seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Manager of Turf and Grounds to oversee the maintenance and presentation of the Arthur M. Blank US Soccer National Training Center; a premier training facility located outside of Atlanta, Georgia. This position is responsible for producing and maintaining world-class Bermuda grass and overseeded ryegrass playing surfaces that are safe, consistent, and aesthetically exceptional for professional trainings.

The Senior Manager Turf of Grounds will play a key role collaborating with the Director of Turf and Grounds in developing and executing agronomic programs, supervising staff, and building strong relationships with coaches, performance staff, and club leadership to ensure the fields consistently meet the highest professional standards.

Primary Responsibilities

Field Maintenance

• Manage the daily care, preparation, and long-term health of grass and artificial training fields.
• Assist the Director of Turf and Grounds to develop and implement an annual agronomic plan, including fertilization, irrigation, mowing, aeration, topdressing, verticutting, grow covers, and sod repair.
• Operate and maintain field-testing equipment to monitor turf and soil conditions, adjusting practices accordingly.
• Execute painting and layout of multiple field markings for soccer and other sport-specific needs.
• Conduct regular inspections of fields, ensuring compliance with professional playing standards.
• Support both large- and small-scale renovation projects, including sod replacement and turf recovery programs.
• Assist with irrigation troubleshooting, repairs, and system monitoring.
• Ensure proper care, storage, and safe operation of all equipment.

Leadership & Staff Oversight

• Assist in recruiting and training of new staff.
• Provide direction, supervision, and mentorship to full-time, part-time, and seasonal grounds staff.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and professional pride in field presentation.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training as assigned.

Collaboration & Event Support

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with coaches, and performance staff to align field conditions with training objectives.
• Prepare and adjust field schedules around team needs, coordinating with multiple departments to maximize facility use.
• Support training or special event field requirements when scheduled at the Arthur M. Blank US Soccer National Training Center. 

Planning & Execution

• Assist the Director, Turf and Grounds in developing and executing long-term turf management strategies.
• Implement programs, objectives, and procedures that ensure optimal turf performance across all training fields.
• Track and manage inventory of materials, equipment, and supplies required for turf operations.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or two-year certificate in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience)
• Minimum of 4 years of professional turf management experience, preferably in a sports facility or golf course setting
• Strong understanding of turfgrass principles and field maintenance practices
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively with technical staff, coaches, and leadership
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop staff
• High attention to detail and commitment to producing elite playing surfaces
• Ability to obtain necessary pesticide and fertilizer certifications
• General knowledge of soccer 
• Capable of working in fast-paced and demanding environments 
• Must be able to connect “micro” details to the “macro” vision and mission 
• Proficient experience with Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook) 

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift 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 long hours, nights, weekends, and holidays as required by training and event schedules

U.S. Soccer offers a comprehensive compensation package, casual work environment, an inclusive culture, and an atmosphere for professional development.

U.S. Soccer is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, citizenship, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, military status, political belief, or any other characteristic protected under the law. This policy applies to all our employment practices within our organization. We strongly encourage women, people of color, LGBTQIA, veterans, parents, and persons with disabilities to apply.