Head Groundsman

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Job summary

Placements24 in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, seeks a Head Groundsman to oversee maintenance of world-class playing surfaces for major events. You will lead a team, manage turfgrass programs, irrigation, pest control, and equipment, ensuring top quality fields for cricket, soccer, rugby and other sports.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in sports turf management, supervisory experience, and a degree or diploma in horticulture or agronomy.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agronomy, Turfgrass Management, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years in sports turf management with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven turfgrass, soil science, pest/disease management, and irrigation system knowledge.
• Experience operating and maintaining groundskeeping machinery.
• Strong leadership, team management and communication skills.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets and schedules.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations; flexibility for weekend/event hours.
• Certification from a recognized turf management association is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily groundskeeping operations to ensure immaculate fields.
• Develop and implement turfgrass management plans (fertilization, irrigation, pests).
• Lead, train, and supervise a team of groundskeepers.
• Maintain and operate equipment (mowers, tractors, sprayers).
• Monitor soil conditions and turf health; adjust practices accordingly.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Manage budgeting for materials, equipment and labor.
• Coordinate with event organizers to meet surface requirements.
• Keep detailed maintenance records and reports.
• Stay updated on turfgrass science advances.

Skills

Leadership

Turfgrass management

Irrigation knowledge

Plant health and pest control

Team supervision

Budget management

Communication skills

Education

Degree or diploma in Horticulture/Agronomy/Turfgrass Management

Tools

Groundskeeping machinery

Mowers/tractors/sprayers

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier sports facility in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head Groundsman to oversee the maintenance and preparation of their world-class playing surfaces. This role is critical to ensuring the highest standards of turf quality and playability for various sporting events hosted at the facility. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of turfgrass management, agronomy, and groundskeeping best practices, coupled with strong leadership and supervisory skills. You will be responsible for leading a team of groundskeepers, managing equipment, and implementing sustainable maintenance programs. This is an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated professional to manage immaculate sports fields in the beautiful region of Nelspruit .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the groundskeeping department, ensuring immaculate condition of all playing fields and surrounding areas in Nelspruit .
• Develop and implement comprehensive turfgrass management plans, including fertilization, irrigation, pest and disease control, and mowing schedules.
• Manage, train, and supervise a team of groundskeepers, assigning tasks and ensuring high-quality workmanship.
• Maintain and operate a variety of groundskeeping equipment, including mowers, tractors, sprayers, and hand tools, ensuring they are in good working order.
• Monitor soil conditions, weather patterns, and turf health, making necessary adjustments to maintenance practices.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations related to groundskeeping operations.
• Manage the groundskeeping budget, including forecasting expenses for materials, equipment, and labor.
• Coordinate with event organizers and sports management to ensure playing surfaces meet specific requirements for events and matches.
• Maintain detailed records of all maintenance activities, including fertilization, pesticide applications, and repairs.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in turfgrass science and groundskeeping technology.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agronomy, Turfgrass Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in sports turf management, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven expertise in turfgrass species, soil science, pest/disease management, and irrigation systems relevant to Mpumalanga 's climate.
• Experience operating and maintaining a wide range of groundskeeping machinery.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets effectively.
• Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations.
• A strong work ethic and the ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Certification from a recognized turf management association is a plus.
• Familiarity with the specific sporting needs in the Nelspruit area is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for professional development within a leading sports facility. This role provides the chance to work with exceptional grounds and contribute to the success of major sporting events in Nelspruit . We are committed to providing a safe, rewarding, and professional working environment. Join our client and ensure the pinnacle of playing surface quality in Mpumalanga .