Turf Operations Manager

Turf Operations Manager

Location: Multiple Farm Locations
Reports To: Director of Turf
Supervises: All Production Managers, Bahia Manager, Harvest Manager

Tater Farms is seeking an experienced and motivated Turf Operations Manager to oversee all turfgrass and Bahia grass production across approximately 5,000 acres. Reporting directly to the Director of Turf, this role is responsible for leading production teams, ensuring consistent turf quality, and driving operational excellence across multiple farm locations.

Tater Farms is family-inspired, customer-focused, and driven by innovation. We are a local sod farm proudly serving Northeast Florida with farm-fresh, high-quality sod. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is matched by our dedication to doing things the right way—every day.

At Tater Farms, our Core Values guide everything we do. Every manager and team member is expected to exemplify these values:

• Respect
• Integrity
• Dependable

We take pride in producing top-quality turf while fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

This is a hands-on leadership position ideal for someone who inspires others, sets clear expectations, and holds teams accountable while upholding Tater Farms' core values.

Turf Production & Growing Operations

• Lead, Manage, and Hold Accountable (LMA)
• Inspire your teammates.
• Earn the respect, trust, and loyalty of your team/s.
• Set SMART goals and delegate work.
• Oversee day-to-day operations.
• Ensure employees work productively and develop professionally.
• Set clear expectations. 
• Oversee turfgrass and Bahia grass cultivation across approximately 5,000 acres.
• Plan and direct timely planting, replanting, mowing, fertilizing, spraying, and irrigation activities.
• Supervise Production Managers and ensure execution of best practices in turf management.
• Conduct field inspections and pallet test cuts to maintain turf quality standards.
• Coordinate daily harvesting operations to meet or exceed company quality benchmarks.
• Manage test plots for new turfgrass varieties, including nutrition and irrigation maintenance.
• Represent Tater Farms in a professional and customer service-oriented manner.
• Attend business-related meetings.
• Enforce Tater Farms' policies and procedures.

Operations & Planning

• Partner with the Director of Turf to develop and manage the annual production plan and operating budget.
• Maintain detailed records of field operations, inputs, and results across all locations.
• Oversee procurement and inventory of fertilizers, chemicals, and supplies.
• Coordinate scheduling and task assignments across the turf production team.
• Lead field selection and harvest prioritization to ensure operational flow and product quality.

Team Management & Safety

• Conduct and document monthly safety meetings.
• Promote a safe, positive, and productive work environment.
• Ensure compliance with Tater Farms' policies, procedures, and performance standards.
• Represent Tater Farms professionally in meetings, vendor relations, and external interactions.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferred 
• 3–5 years of experience in turf operations or a related field preferred
• Strong knowledge of turfgrass cultivation and management practices
• Ability to obtain and maintain a pesticide applicator license
• Proficiency with farm management software and related tools
• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions
• Ability to frequently lift or move heavy objects

Compensation & Benefits

Tater Farms offers a competitive compensation package that includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Vacation Time
• Opportunity to grow with a stable, family-inspired agricultural operation

Why Join Tater Farms?

This role offers the opportunity to lead large-scale turf operations, influence long-term production strategy, and build a long-term career with a respected, values-driven company.