At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and prepare elite-level playing surfaces at Villa Park and Bodymoor Heath.
- Company: Join the award-winning Aston Villa Football Club's Pitch Grounds Team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and amazing staff benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of a historic club and contribute to world-class facilities.
- Qualifications: Experience in supervisory roles with NVQ Level 3 in Horticulture/Sports Turf.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 43000 £ per year.
Department: Facilities and Estates Department - Pitch Grounds Team Villa Park
Hours of work: 40 hours per week (including Matchdays, Evenings and Weekends)
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £43,000 per annum
Location: Villa Park
Closing Date: Monday 30 November 2026
The Department
Our award-winning Pitch Grounds Team at both Villa Park and Bodymoor Heath Training Ground are responsible for the care and maintenance of our playing and training pitches ensuring the best possible elite-level playing surfaces for our teams. We pride ourselves on innovation and sustainability and we have proudly achieved the prestigious Premier League Grounds Team of the Season more than once which is a testament to our exceptional standards and dedication.
The Role
We are now looking for an Assistant Head Grounds Person to join our high-performing team based at Villa Park who will play a key operational role in the maintenance and preparation of our elite-level playing surfaces. You will also provide support at our Bodymoor Heath Training Ground as and when required. This will be a hands-on role delivering daily maintenance operations including:
- Grass cutting
- Line marking
- Aeration
- Overseeding and turf replacement
- Fertilisation
- Irrigation checks and adjustments including pitch heating system
You will supervise the wider Grounds Team as and when required and you will also work collaboratively with a range of colleagues across the Club. A key duty of this role will be supporting all matchday and event operations pitch preparations and post-match recovery operations which includes maintenance of the warm-up area, co-ordinating with broadcast and operations staff, assisting with the set up and takedown of lighting rights and other performance technology.
The Person
You will need to have demonstrable experience of working in a supervisory role with an NVQ Level 3 Horticulture/Sports Turf or equivalent experience. You will need to have a proactive and detail-orientated approach with the ability to resolve challenges and communicate clearly and concisely. You will need to be organised with the ability to adapt to changing conditions in a dynamic and operational environment. You will need to be available to work flexible hours as the Club requires including matchdays and other stadium events and you will need to have a UK driving licence with access to a vehicle to travel between our Club sites and turf farms.
Why join us?
There has never been a better time to join Aston Villa Football Club. Our drive to succeed is visible on the global stage, we are building a family ethos and culture to be proud of, and realising our ambitious plans for the expansion and improvement of our world-class facilities. If you are already excited by this challenge and want to play your part in our historic Club, then you'll be pleased to hear about our amazing staff benefits you'll receive whilst working for us!
As part of your application, you will be asked to:
- Upload your CV
- Answer the following question: Please outline your key skills, qualities and experience which make you the ideal candidate for this role (400 words maximum)
Right to Close Vacancy Posting Early
The Club reserves the right to close any advertised vacancies earlier than the advertised closing date if sufficient applications have been received.
Equality Statement
Aston Villa Football Club celebrates the diversity of its Club and embrace equal opportunities for all. We welcome applications from all candidates regardless of age, race, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, sex and religion or belief.
Safeguarding Statement
Aston Villa Football Club is fully committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk across our Club. As such, we adhere to Safer Recruitment processes and for some roles a satisfactory enhanced disclosure via the Disclosure & Barring Service may be required prior to starting in a role at the Club.
Assistant Head Grounds Person employer: Aston Villa Football Club
Joining the Aston Villa Foundation as a Youth Engagement Officer means becoming part of a passionate team dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young people in Birmingham. With a strong focus on employee development, a supportive work culture, and the opportunity to work within world-class facilities, you will find a rewarding environment that values innovation and community engagement. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every voice is heard, making this an exceptional place to grow your career while contributing to meaningful change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head Grounds Person
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
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✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
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We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head Grounds Person
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Aston Villa Football Club does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aston Villa Football Club
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Aston Villa Football Club will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Aston Villa Football Club.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Aston Villa Football Club.
