At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain a stunning golf course and ensure top-notch playing conditions.
- Company: Join the dynamic team at Horsley Lodge Estate, transforming into a premier golf destination.
- Benefits: Earn up to £40k, enjoy 28 days holiday, and free access to golf facilities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a supportive team and great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting transformation and work outdoors in beautiful Derbyshire.
- Qualifications: Experience in greenkeeping is a plus, but passion and willingness to learn are key.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 40000 £ per year.
Horsley Lodge Golf Course (now known as Horsley Lodge Estate) is undergoing a major transformation. Under new ownership as of February 2024, the Estate has embarked on a multi-year investment programme to elevate the golf course to one of the finest experiences in the Midlands. We are now seeking an ambitious, skilled and forward-thinking Greenkeepers.
Set within 200 acres of rolling Derbyshire countryside, the Estate comprises a championship 18-hole golf course, a 14 bedroom hotel, Farmhouse Kitchen restaurant, clubhouse bars and wedding/event facilities. The golf course has a strong reputation for year-round playability, and the ownership team is committed to taking product standards, agronomy and presentation to the next level.
Course Development & Investment
- Completion of enhanced drainage works
- New championship black tees
- Fully surfaced buggy paths across the entire course
- New course machinery & equipment procurement
- Long-term agronomic planning & sustainability initiatives
- Further upgrades are scheduled through 2026/27 as part of a wider Estate masterplan, including a new state of the art Driving Range
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out day-to-day golf course maintenance including mowing, bunker preparation, divoting and turf repairs
- Assist with daily course set-up to required playing standards (tee markers, hole changing, greens preparation, signage, etc.)
- Support the delivery of seasonal agronomic practices such as topdressing, aeration, overseeding and spraying (subject to competencies)
- Maintain course surrounds, paths, practice areas and irrigation points to the highest presentation standards
- Operate and care for machinery and tools in a safe and responsible manner
- Monitor playability and course conditions, reporting issues to senior greenstaff
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to support the wider Estate vision and ensure a high-quality member and visitor experience
Key Skills, Qualities & Experience
- Prior greenkeeping/grounds care experience desirable
- PA1/PA2/PA6 chemical application certificates beneficial, but training can be provided
- A genuine passion for golf course presentation, turf care and outdoor work
- Strong work ethic with the ability to follow instructions and work independently when required
- Methodical, reliable and motivated with good attention to detail
- Flexible approach to working hours, including weekend rota and seasonal demands
- Full UK driving licence preferred or own transport due to rural location
- Willingness to learn as part of an ambitious and supportive greenkeeping team
This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate, motivated individual looking to work at a fantastic facility with a great team.
Package & Benefits
- Salary: Up to £40k Dependent on Experience
- 40 hours per week (weekend rotation as required)
- Full-time, permanent contract
- 28 days holiday including bank holidays
- Free use of the golf course & practice facilities
- Staff discounts across the Estate (F&B, hotel & events)
- On-site parking
TO APPLY: Please submit your CV and covering letter to: r.brough@horsleylodgeestate.co.uk
Greenkeeper employer: British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA)
Hogs Haven Golf Club is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to be part of a world-class golf course development just two miles from St Andrews. With a strong focus on employee growth and professional development, the club fosters a collaborative work culture where Assistant Greenkeepers can thrive while contributing to the construction and maintenance of pristine playing surfaces. The club's commitment to excellence in agronomy ensures that team members are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge in turf management, making it a rewarding place to build a career in the greenkeeping industry.
Contact Details:
British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Greenkeeper
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA).
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA).
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA); staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Greenkeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA).
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Greenkeeper.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA)
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
