Groundsperson
Job Description:A groundsperson looks after sports grounds like golf courses and cricket, football and rugby pitches.
Job Category:What you will do:
As a groundperson you could:
- prepare land for grass turf
- roll and mow grass and remove water
- control weeds, diseases and pests
- mark lines on pitches, cut holes and move markers
- install, maintain and operate equipment like strimmers and mowers
Skills:
You’ll need:
- customer service skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- sensitivity and understanding
- physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
- the ability to work well with your hands
Entry Requirements:
To become a Groundsperson, you don’t typically need specific subjects. However, a strong educational background, practical skills, and certain attributes can be beneficial for this role, which involves maintaining and caring for outdoor spaces, such as sports fields, parks, and gardens. Here are some subjects and skills that can be helpful:
- Mathematics: Strong mathematical skills can be useful for tasks like measuring and calculating materials needed for landscaping projects, budgeting, and scheduling maintenance.
- Science: Basic knowledge of biology, botany, and environmental science can be beneficial in understanding plant growth, soil composition, and pest control.
- Physical Education (PE): Physical fitness and stamina are important for performing the physical tasks associated with groundskeeping, such as mowing, weeding, and lifting heavy objects.
- Design and Technology: Courses in design and technology can provide skills in using tools and equipment for landscaping and maintenance tasks.
- English: Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are important for reporting issues, communicating with team members, and following safety protocols.
- IT Skills: Proficiency in using computers and specialized software for record-keeping, inventory management, and scheduling can be valuable.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- specialist courses run by a professional body
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- sports surface management
- sportsturf management
- horticulture
College
You might find it helpful to do a college course before looking for work. In the UK, for example, course subjects include:
- Certificate in Sports and Amenity Turf Maintenance
- Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills
- Diploma in Horticulture
Apprenticeship
You could do the Sports Turf Operative Intermediate Apprenticeship to become a groundsperson.
You could specialise in working on golf courses through an intermediate or advanced golf greenkeeping apprenticeship.
With experience, you could move on to do the Sports Turf Technician Advanced Apprenticeship.
Work
You might be able to find work as an assistant groundsperson without qualifications. You could then work your way up by getting experience and studying on the job.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 39-41 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends flexibly.
You could work at a school, in a park or on a sports field. Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could progress to supervisor, team leader or head of section.