Grounds Intern

Department: Grounds & Field Operations
Reports To: Head Groundskeeper / Director of Field Operations
Duration: Seasonal (Spring, Summer, or Full Season)
Compensation: Paid

Position Summary
The Grounds Intern supports the daily maintenance and game-day preparation of the playing surface and surrounding ballpark grounds at Columbus Clingstones Ballpark. This role provides hands-on experience in professional baseball field maintenance, turf management, and stadium operations. The intern will work closely with the Grounds Crew to ensure a safe, visually appealing, and play-ready field for all games, practices, and special events. Key Responsibilities

• Assist with daily field maintenance, including mowing, edging, dragging, chalking, and watering the playing surface
• Prepare the field for games, practices, and special events in accordance with professional baseball standards
• Assist with infield skin maintenance, mound and plate setup, and bullpen preparation
• Help with tarp pulls, rain delay procedures, and post-weather recovery
• Maintain surrounding ballpark areas, including warning track, foul territory, bullpen mounds, and dugouts
• Assist with field breakdown and reconfiguration for non-baseball events
• Operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment under supervision
• Follow all safety protocols and proper equipment handling procedures
• Support inventory management of field supplies and materials

Learning Opportunities

• Exposure to professional baseball field standards and maintenance schedules
• Hands-on experience with turfgrass management and infield skin care
• Understanding of weather management, drainage, and field safety protocols
• Insight into coordination between grounds, operations, and baseball staff
• Preparation for careers in sports turf management, facility operations, or agronomy

Preferred Qualifications

• Interest in sports turf management, agronomy, landscaping, or facility operations
• Ability to work early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays as required by the baseball schedule
• Ability to perform physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs and working in varying weather conditions
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail
• Willingness to learn and take direction from grounds staff

Physical & Work Requirements

• Extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and lifting
• Outdoor work in heat, cold, rain, and direct sunlight
• Ability to respond quickly during tarp pulls or weather-related situations