Elite Sports Turf Manager

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive medical insurance

Retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Training and professional development

Access to stadium events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Groundsman for East London, Eastern Cape, to lead and maintain world-class turf for football, rugby and major events. The role requires extensive experience in professional sports turf management, strategic planning, and team leadership.

You will direct mowing, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and renovations, while managing equipment and budget, ensuring safety and peak playability during busy event schedules.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years in professional sports turf management.
• Knowledge of turfgrass species, soil science and pest management.
• Proficient in operating and maintaining groundskeeping equipment.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong planning and organizational abilities.
• Knowledge of health and safety procedures for groundskeeping.
• Diploma/certificate in horticulture or turf management is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily maintenance of the main pitch and surrounding grounds.
• Develop turf management plans including fertilization, irrigation, aeration and pest control.
• Manage operation, maintenance and repair of groundskeeping machinery and equipment.
• Lead, train and supervise a groundskeeping team.
• Monitor pitch conditions and implement corrective actions for playability and safety.
• Plan and execute pitch renovation projects and post-event repairs.
• Manage budget for groundskeeping supplies and equipment.
• Maintain records of maintenance, soil analysis and treatments.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Skills

Groundskeeping leadership

Turf management

Horticulture knowledge

Equipment operation

Education

Diploma in Horticulture/Turf Management

Tools

Groundskeeping machinery

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Head Groundsman for East London, Eastern Cape, to lead and maintain world-class turf for football, rugby and major events. The role requires extensive experience in professional sports turf management, strategic planning, and team leadership.

You will direct mowing, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and renovations, while managing equipment and budget, ensuring safety and peak playability during busy event schedules.