Director of Fields and Grounds
Real Salt Lake
sandy, ut, usa
Posted on Nov 1, 2025
The Utah Royals FC, Real Salt Lake (RSL), and RSL Training Academy are dedicated to the growth and success of soccer in Utah. The Utah Royals FC is committed to empowerment, while RSL represents the state with pride and fosters a winning culture. The RSL Training Academy nurtures young athletes and instills values of discipline and teamwork. Together, they are committed to inspiring the soccer culture of Utah and creating lasting impressions one winning experience at a time.
SUMMARY
The Director of Fields & Grounds is a senior leader responsible for setting the strategic vision, operational standards, and long-term sustainability of all playing surfaces and grounds across America First Field, Zions Bank Real Academy, and America First Field 2.
This role ensures that all fields meet the highest professional standards for performance, safety, and aesthetics — supporting MLS, NWSL, and academy play, as well as large-scale third-party and community events. The Director will oversee all agronomic programs, capital improvements, and personnel development within the department, driving innovation and excellence that reflect the club’s commitment to world-class facilities and the continued growth of soccer in Utah.
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
- Lead all turf and grounds operations across multiple venues, ensuring consistent quality, safety, and playability for all fields year-round.
- Develop and execute a multi-year turf and facilities strategy aligned with organizational goals and capital planning.
- Establish clear performance standards, KPIs, and continuous improvement processes to maintain elite field conditions.
- Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing team of groundskeepers and turf specialists, promoting accountability and professional growth.
- Design and oversee annual agronomic programs including aeration, fertilization, irrigation, pest control, and renovation schedules.
- Manage and optimize irrigation, drainage, and heating systems through regular inspections and data-driven monitoring tools.
- Lead major field and infrastructure projects in collaboration with architects, engineers, and vendors, ensuring compliance with MLS, NWSL, and FIFA standards.
- Coordinate field use and recovery schedules across RSL, Utah Royals FC, Real Monarchs, and Academy programs to balance utilization and quality.
- Develop and manage operating and capital budgets, vendor contracts, and resource allocations to achieve cost efficiency without sacrificing quality.
- Represent the department in leadership meetings and industry forums, staying current on turf innovations, sustainability practices, and league regulation.
- Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in professional athletic or sports turf management.
- 3+ years in a leadership capacity overseeing multi-venue or high-performance environments.
- Experienced in cultivating an engaging and inclusive workplace culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Proven experience in developing and managing large-scale operational and capital budgets.
- In-depth expertise in turf management techniques, irrigation and drainage systems, pest and nutrient control, and turf performance analytics.
- Demonstrated leadership in managing teams, developing personnel, and promoting a culture of safety, collaboration, and accountability.
- Strong communication, project management, and organizational skills with the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in field management software, moisture monitoring systems, and related technology platforms.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to safely operate all grounds maintenance equipment.
- Able to pass a background check and become Safe Sport certified.
- Able to work evenings and weekends to accommodate the teams’ and event schedules.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field.
- Certification from the Sports Field Management Association (SFMA/STMA) or equivalent recognized body.
- Experience managing Kentucky Bluegrass, HD Sport, and hybrid turf varieties in high-altitude climates.
- Familiarity with multi-use or major event venues, including changeovers and post-event field recovery.
- Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain within six months of hire).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 lbs) and operate grounds maintenance equipment.
- Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the schedule of games and events.
The Club provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request an accommodation.
Note: The need may arise to revise, supplement, or rescind portions of this job description, and the Club reserves the right to do so at any time. Employees shall be required to meet the qualifications and perform the duties of any revised job description.