How to Be a Baseball Groundskeeper

Baseball groundskeepers work hard to make sure ballfields are in good condition.

If you love the sight of a perfectly manicured baseball field, then you should consider becoming a baseball groundskeeper. Also known as a "sports turf manager," a baseball groundskeeper has several responsibilities, including the mowing, fertilizing and maintenance of the grass and infield areas; overseeing the repair and replanting of the field in the off-season and making sure that the ground is level enough that the players will not risk injury.

Things You'll Need

• High school diploma or equivalent

Instructions

1. Complete high school or obtain a general equivalency diploma (GED).

2. Consider obtaining a certificate or bachelor's degree in turfgrass management. At the time of publication, schools in 40 states offered such programs. This major encompasses topics such as soil science, general entomology and plant physiology. Though not necessarily a requirement for an entry-level position as a baseball groundskeeper, it will certainly improve your chances for employment.

3. If necessary, obtain a license or certificate to apply pesticides. Most states require certification before you can legally work with insecticides, herbicides and fungicides. Ask prospective employers whether this is necessary. You may also contact your local state's environmental department for more information.

References

• Job Profiles: Baseball - Head Groundskeeper
• CNN Money: Six-Figure Jobs for Spring Training; Jeanne Sahadi; February 2005
• North Dakota State University: Sports and Urban Turfgrass Management Fact Sheet
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Grounds Maintenance Workers