Position
The Head Groundskeeper is responsible for the overall management, maintenance, and preparation of the Wave’s natural grass training fields in Del Mar, CA. The position ensures the fields meet the highest standards for professional soccer, comply with NWSL regulations, prioritize player safety, and support optimal performance for players.
This role requires expertise in turf grass management and a thorough understanding of NWSL field specifications. The Head Groundskeeper is critical to our success by delivering a world-class playing environment.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field preferred.
- Certification or equivalent credentials highly desirable.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in sports turf management, with direct involvement in maintaining professional or collegiate fields.
- Proven experience with both natural grass.
- Extensive knowledge of landscaping techniques and processes.
- Working knowledge of the cultural practices required for Bermuda grass at a professional soccer level.
- Ability to operate power equipment including but not limited to lawnmowers, trimmers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, and other landscaping equipment.
- Ability to operate hand tools used for landscaping.
- Familiarity with NWSL regulations and standards is strongly preferred.
- In-depth knowledge of turfgrass care and irrigation systems.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in operating and maintaining groundskeeping equipment.
- Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Must have a valid and clean driver’s license.
- Must have a current California pesticide license or obtain one in six months.
Job Responsibilities
Field Maintenance and Management
Oversee the maintenance and preparation of all fields, ensuring compliance with NWSL field standards, including:
- Surface Quality: Maintain uniformity, proper drainage, and a safe, smooth playing surface.
- Field Markings: Ensure all markings are accurate, visible, and compliant with league standards.
- Execute best practices for natural grass care, including mowing, aeration, irrigation, fertilization, overseeding, and pest control.
Seasonal and Long-Term Planning
- Develop and implement seasonal field management plans tailored to weather, usage, and field type.
- Plan for renovations, such as resodding, turf replacement, drainage improvements, or irrigation system upgrades.
Compliance and Collaboration
- Ensure all playing surfaces meet NWSL regulations, including surface integrity, uniform ball roll, and bounce characteristics.
- Collaborate with NWSL field inspectors during compliance checks and audits.
- Work with coaches, medical staff, and club leadership to align field usage and maintenance schedules.
- Staff Leadership and Resource Management
- Manage assistant/ground crew member to meet Wave performance standards.
- Oversee field maintenance vendor scheduling and performance.
- Maintain an inventory of equipment and supplies, ensuring they are well-maintained and replenished.
- Manage the department budget, optimizing resources while maintaining high-quality standards
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- This is an in-person position working from at the Wave Training Facility in Del Mar, CA
- Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Must reside within a commutable distance to Del Mar upon date of hire.
- Responsibilities include regular work outdoors and may require standing on feet for long periods of time, as well as some lifting of up to 50 pounds.
COMPENSATION, BENEFITS & PERKS
Our Total Rewards package for full-time team members includes:
Comprehensive Medical Coverage: We offer HMO and PPO plans, with options at 100% coverage for monthly employee-only premiums.
Vision & Dental Insurance: 100% premium coverage for employees and dependents.
Generous and Flexible PTO: Our unlimited Paid Time Off and additional sick leave ensures employees have time to rest and recharge.
Retirement Planning Support: 401(k) retirement plan
Parental Leave: Supplemented CA State Disability Insurance for 8 weeks of full pay.
Exclusive Perks: Enjoy complimentary ticket and parking to matches, making it easier for you to experience the excitement firsthand. Cool employee-exclusive, free merch and massive store discount.
Community Engagement: Support local community partners through fulfilling hands-on events, while on the clock.
Base Comp: $80K – $90K
APPLY TODAY
Our people are our club. We believe different backgrounds and experiences bring new ideas and perspectives. We encourage talented candidates from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds to apply. We’re excited to welcome new members of our team who share our passion. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
