ABOUT THE ROLE
Behind every match, training session, and event is a grounds operation that keeps our fields performing at the highest level.
The Philadelphia Union are seeking a motivated, dependable, and mechanically inclined Part-Time Grounds Mechanic to support the maintenance and operation of turf equipment, utility vehicles, and facility golf carts across the Philadelphia Union campus, primarily at Subaru Park and the WSFS Bank Sportsplex.
Working closely with the Director of Turf Management, this position helps ensure that the equipment our Grounds and Turf teams rely on every day is safe, reliable, properly maintained, and ready to perform. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys working with equipment, solving mechanical problems, and contributing behind the scenes to a high-performance professional sports environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Equipment Maintenance & Repair
- Assist the Director of Turf Management with preventive maintenance, servicing, and repair of turf and grounds equipment, including mowers, tractors, utility vehicles, sprayers, golf carts, and small-engine equipment.
- Perform routine equipment inspections and maintenance, including lubrication, oil and filter changes, tire repairs, blade and reel adjustments, and other scheduled service.
- Assist with troubleshooting and diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues and completing repairs in a timely manner.
- Maintain and adjust cutting equipment to support consistent, high-quality playing surfaces.
- Work with Jacobsen cutting units, including reel and bedknife maintenance and mower adjustments to maintain proper cutting performance and quality of cut.
- Inspect equipment for safety concerns, damage, or maintenance needs and promptly communicate issues to the Director of Turf Management.
- Help maintain accurate equipment maintenance logs, service records, and parts inventory.
- Assist with receiving, organizing, and stocking replacement parts, tools, equipment, and shop supplies.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized equipment shop, maintenance areas, and storage facilities.
Grounds & Facility Support
- Prepare and set up equipment for daily field maintenance, team training sessions, Philadelphia Union matches, tournaments, and special events.
- Safely operate turf and grounds equipment as needed to support field and campus operations at Subaru Park and the WSFS Bank Sportsplex.
- Help ensure golf carts, utility vehicles, and other operational equipment are maintained and available for use across the campus.
- Support the Grounds and Turf teams with equipment needs during high-volume operational periods.
- Assist with special projects, facility maintenance needs, and other grounds-related responsibilities as assigned.
Safety & Team Support
- Follow all equipment shop safety standards, operating procedures, manufacturer guidelines, and safe equipment-handling practices.
- Help identify equipment or operational conditions that could create safety concerns and report them promptly.
- Provide basic guidance to team members regarding proper equipment operation and safe-use practices when needed.
- Work collaboratively with Grounds, Turf, Operations, and other departments to support the needs of Subaru Park and the WSFS Bank Sportsplex.
- Demonstrate reliability, professionalism, attention to detail, and a team-first approach.
WHAT YOU’LL BRING
- Previous mechanical experience working with turf, landscape, agricultural, automotive, or similar equipment preferred.
- Working knowledge of small engines, diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and power equipment preferred.
- Experience with Jacobsen cutting units, including reel and bedknife maintenance and mower adjustment, strongly preferred.
- Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and basic diagnostic equipment.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
- Strong work ethic with a willingness to learn and continue developing technical skills.
- Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
- Strong communication, organization, and attention to detail.
- Technical or vocational training in mechanics, equipment maintenance, automotive technology, or a related field is a plus.
- Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate applicable vehicles and equipment preferred.
PHYSICAL & SCHEDULING REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods.
- Ability to regularly stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, reach, and work in various physical positions.
- Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
- Ability to safely work around moving equipment, machinery, vehicles, and active field operations.
- Must be available to work a flexible schedule based on team and facility needs, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours surrounding matches, training sessions, tournaments, and special events.