Turf Specialist

Ryan Lawn & Tree Inc•Waukee, IA

6h•$24 - $28

About The Position

The Turf Specialist serves as a bridge between field operations and department leadership, scheduling assigned work and performing specialized turf services for new and existing residential and commercial customers. The role supports mowing crews and Applicators, monitors turf health, and ensures mowing, trimming, blowing, and application work meets RJ Lawn & Landscape standards. The position includes coordinating crew schedules, mowing routes, application schedules, and property checks; supporting mowing and chemical application work; maintaining natural-grass playing surfaces; monitoring turf for disease, pests, and moisture issues; and communicating findings and recommendations to the Turf Manager. The Turf Specialist also trains crew members, coordinates materials and deliveries, maintains customer relationships, documents job tickets, verifies work quality, and supports compliance with Iowa pesticide application laws and company safety policies. This is year-round employment that includes snow removal duties as assigned. The role requires physical work on varied terrain, operation of specialized landscaping equipment, and overtime as needed. The position reports to the Turf Manager.

Requirements

Pass a background check and pre-employment drug screening.
Possess and maintain an Iowa Class A Combination CDL (no air brakes).
Possess and maintain a 3OT Ornamental Turf Applicator certification/license.
Be legally able to operate company vehicles with a valid Iowa driver's license.
Be physically able to lift up to 50 pounds; bend, lift, and walk on uneven, sloped, or rough terrain; shovel sand, rock, dirt, and snow; and climb ladders as needed.
Safely and effectively operate machinery and specialized equipment, including riding lawn mowers, string trimmers, blowers, ride-on spreaders/sprayers, and hand-held application equipment.
Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) as necessary.
Read and understand technical information competently.
Demonstrate basic math skills and conversions.
Lead and train crew members effectively.
Work overtime as needed.
Demonstrate problem-solving skills by identifying and resolving issues in a timely manner.
Adapt to a dynamic work environment and manage competing demands and unexpected events.
Communicate clearly and persuasively in positive and challenging situations.

Responsibilities

Schedule assigned Turf crews and specialized work with the Turf Manager, including mowing routes, application schedules, and property check assignments.
Support Crew Leaders with mowing operations and assist Applicators with chemical application work as needed.
Ensure trimmings and clippings are cleared from driveways, sidewalks, and hardscape at every property.
Maintain natural-grass playing surfaces through mowing, trimming, field layout, and painting, and perform cultural practices to maintain their quality.
Monitor turf health at assigned properties and check for disease, pest activity, and moisture issues; communicate findings and treatment recommendations to the Turf Manager.
Assist with training and developing crew members in mowing technique, trimming standards, equipment operation, and chemical application safety.
Coordinate material orders and deliveries for assigned Turf jobs, including chemicals, fertilizer, and equipment supplies.
Maintain relationships with customers and property managers, communicate scheduled visits, and address on-site inquiries professionally.
Review the daily schedule before departure, including job locations, scope of work, routes, and required materials and equipment.
Inspect iPhone and iCREWtek devices to confirm they are functioning properly and promptly report issues to the Turf Manager.
Survey each site upon arrival, check for obstacles before mowing, and report scope discrepancies, existing damage, or time concerns to the Turf Manager, using photo documentation when applicable.
Complete job tickets accurately with time and material records, and walk each property to verify quality before leaving.
Immediately report accidents, injuries, property damage, absenteeism, and tardiness to the Turf Manager.
Clean equipment, remove debris, and prepare for the following day's work at the end of each day.
Support compliance with Iowa pesticide application laws, including required property posting and chemical handling protocols.
Attend company meetings as requested and continuing education classes as required to maintain certifications.
Perform snow removal duties as assigned.
Promote, demonstrate, and enforce safety procedures and company policies.
Support and enforce RJ Lawn & Landscape's vision, mission, and core values.