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Grounds Managers

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Licensing and certification differ by state and vary according to specific job responsibilities. For example, in most states grounds managers need a certificate to spray insecticides or other chemicals.

Several professional associations offer certification programs for workers in the field. The National Association of Landscape Professionals offers various certification designations, including business manager, exterior technician, and lawn care manager, among others. Depending on the certification, applicants must pass a multiple-choice examination or a hands-on field test. The Professional Grounds Management Society offers the certified grounds manager designation. Grounds managers who specialize in the care of golf courses and sports fields can receive certification from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) or the Sports Field Management Association. The International Society of Arboriculture (https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials) also provides certification.

Self-employed grounds managers may also need a license to operate their businesses.

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