About this opportunity
San José State University lists this Associate Director, Athletic Fields opportunity in san jose, California. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Job no:
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: San José
Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Full Time
Job Summary
The Associate Director, Athletic Fields provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for South Campus grounds, supporting Division I Athletics and campus landscape services. This role manages daily grounds operations, including planning, resource allocation, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory compliance. The incumbent leads staff, oversees budgets and contracts, and ensures high-quality, safe, and environmentally responsible grounds maintenance. Operating with broad independence, this position has significant impact on campus operations, customer satisfaction, and long-term facilities stewardship.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic oversight and management of athletic fields, campus grounds, and landscape services to ensure safety, playability, and sustainability
Plan, direct, and oversee major grounds renovation and maintenance projects, including contractor coordination and quality control
Develop and implement maintenance plans, service standards, and preventive maintenance programs for all assigned areas
Manage integrated pest management (IPM), irrigation systems, soil health, and turf programs using sustainable practices
Lead budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation to support efficient and effective operations
Oversee vendor and contract administration, procurement processes, and service delivery outcomes
Supervise, coach, and evaluate staff; oversee hiring, training, performance management, and employee development
Establish and monitor performance metrics, quality assurance programs, and reporting systems
Serve as primary liaison to Athletics, Club Sports, and campus stakeholders; ensure high levels of customer service and communication
Ensure compliance with University, CSU, and regulatory requirements, including safety, environmental, and operational standards
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Ability to plan, implement, and manage complex grounds and athletic field operations
Knowledge of landscape maintenance practices, irrigation systems, pest management, and turf management
Working knowledge of sustainable and organic landscape management practices, including IPM and soil health programs
Ability to interpret plans and manage large-scale landscape and construction projects
Strong leadership and supervisory skills, including performance management and team development
Ability to analyze operational data, identify issues, and implement process improvements
Effective communication and interpersonal skills across diverse stakeholders and organizational levels
Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing operational needs
Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to safety, environmental compliance, and pesticide use
Ability to foster a collaborative, customer-focused, and inclusive work environment
Required Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts/Science degree in horticulture or a related field OR equivalent by minimum two years of supervisory experience in scheduling, coordinating, and performing grounds operations, with at least two years in progressively responsible management
Five years of professional work experience directly related to landscape management of a large campus or complex, with a minimum of three years in progressively responsible management
Knowledge of landscape practices as related to irrigation, integrated pest management, and organic vegetation management
Supervisory work experience in management of personnel or employee relations issues
Demonstrated experience developing and implementing grounds maintenance plans
Experience in grounds maintenance at an NCAA or professional sports environment
License
A valid driver's license is required for this position. Out of state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver's license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.
Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.
Preferred Qualifications
Pest Control Certification (QAL or QLC) from the State of California, or Certified IPM Technician (CIT)
Organic Land Care Professional (AOLCP) credential from the Professional Grounds Management Society
Membership or certification with the Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) with a focus on sustainable practices
Certified Arborist from the ISA or ASCA
Certified Landscape or Golf Irrigation Auditor from the Irrigation Association
NOFA Organic Land Care Professional certification, or equivalent training in organic land management
Supervisory experience within a collective bargaining and represented staff environment
Experience managing athletic fields using organic and ecologically sustainable methods
Experience in grounds services management of a State facility, College or University, or other environment with extensive grounds
Experience managing grounds services and operations in a high level NCAA or professional sports environment
Compensation
Classification: Administrator II
Anticipated Hiring Range: $9,834/month - $10,834/month
CSU Salary Range: $5,053/month - $16,221/month
The final hiring salary will be commensurate with experience.
San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.
Application Procedure
Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:
Resume
Letter of Interest
All applicants must apply within the specified application period: April 27, 2026, through May 12, 2026 . This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.
Contact Information
University Personnel
Equal Employment Statement
San José State University is an equal opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San José State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university (both on and off campus). Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose. San José State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
Advertised: April 27, 2026 (9:00 AM) Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: Open until filled
Educational and other legal disclosures and policy links have been retained in this refined version solely to reflect the original content where appropriate for compliance. No external scripts or non-text content are included.
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Worksite address
san jose, CA, 95199, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.