ATHLETIC FIELD SPECIALIST

Occupational Summary

Provide advanced knowledge in performing a variety of manual tasks in safely maintaining all Duke University athletic playing surfaces.

Work Performed

• Proficient in the implementation of the maintenance pertaining to: Highly maintained turfgrass and synthetic athletic surfaces, clay/dirt management including moisture control, sprayer and spreader calibrations, pesticide applications, disease and pest identification, mower maintenance, irrigation system repair and scheduling, and current NCAA regulations pertaining to field layouts and management.
• Perform day-to day maintenance of athletic fields including: striping, grooming, marking, painting, and proper setup for games, practices and tournaments
• Use mobile spray units as needed for the application of fertilizers and pesticides in accordance with appropriate state and federal regulations
• Perform infield clay/dirt management utilizing rake/drag and have a working knowledge of clay/dirt moisture management and repair.
• Assist in field renovations to include grading, sodding, and irrigation repairs.
• Perform string trimming, edging, blowing, removal of leaves and debris, weeds and litter at all university athletic fields as needed.
• Perform aeration, overseeding, vertical mowing, sweeping, grooming, and topdressing as assigned.
• Installation and removal of growth covers and tarps, and installation and removal of athletic goals, nets, and flags in preparation of athletic events.
• Assist in cleanup and repair during inclement weather events which may require working extended hours during these events.  
• Assist in snow and ice removal operations from athletic playing surfaces.
• Makes visual inspections of athletic fields and reports any issues in need of resolution; makes minor repairs as assigned
• Perform routine maintenance on grounds equipment as required; determine when equipment needs repair and inform appropriate authorities.
• Duties include but are not limited to: Cleaning/pressure washing, checking for proper levels of; fuel, oil, grease, and tire pressure. Setting and adjusting heights of cut and back lapping reel mower cutting units. Checking all safety devices to insure proper function and operation.

Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.
 

Skills

•    Operation of reel type mowers, tractors including PTO driven aerators and vertical mowers, topdressing, rolling, grooming and sweeping
•    Specialized knowledge of sports turf characteristics and maintenance including the ability to diagnose issues and recommend solutions
•    Familiarity with NCAA sports field marking requirements and standards
•    Must be able to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions and meet deadlines
•    Requires accurate use and precise perception and judgement for: safe use of measuring devices; operation of machinery and equipment; operation of motor vehicles; and the general observation of surroundings and activities for the safety of individuals, staff and the general public
•    Ability to work independently or in a team setting based on the assigned task

Minimum Qualifications

Education

 Work requires knowledge of turfgrass and soil management normally acquired through an Associate degree program in turfgrass management or two years post-secondary education in turfgrass management or a related field.
North Carolina pesticide applicators license or ability to obtain within six months of hire is required. Certified Sports Field Manager strongly preferred. North Carolina driver's license is required.

Experience

Work requires a minimum of three or more years of athletic field maintenance experience OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE.

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.