At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the maintenance and presentation of top-class pitches and training surfaces.
- Company: Join Milton Keynes Dons FC and be part of a high-performance sports team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance incentives, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Supportive culture with chances for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on elite playing surfaces in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in sports grounds maintenance and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced grounds professional with a passion for creating top‑class playing surfaces? Do you want to play a key role in maintaining the facilities at Milton Keynes Dons FC and be part of a high‑performance sporting environment? We are seeking a Grounds Team Leader to join our team and lead the day‑to‑day maintenance and presentation of our pitches and training surfaces. You will play a key role in ensuring all playing surfaces meet the highest standards for performance, safety, and presentation, while supporting and developing the grounds team.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading the maintenance, preparation and presentation of all training surfaces and matchday pitches
- Ensuring pitches meet required regulatory, operational and performance standards
- Managing and leading the grounds team in daily operations
- Supporting the development of less experienced staff through training and on‑the‑job guidance
- Promoting best practice in sports turf maintenance and grounds operations
- Operating and maintaining grounds machinery safely and effectively
- Communicating effectively with coaching staff and the Head of Grounds regarding pitch conditions, requirements and maintenance planning
- Ensuring all work is carried out in line with health and safety procedures and safe operating systems
About You
- Has several years’ experience in sports grounds maintenance or a similar environment
- Has experience supervising or leading a team
- Possesses strong knowledge of sports turf management and grounds maintenance techniques
- Is competent in the use of grounds machinery (e.g. pedestrian mowers, tractors, aerators)
- Demonstrates strong leadership, communication and organisational skills
- Has a proactive, positive approach to maintaining high standards
- Understands health and safety regulations and best practice within grounds management
Desirable (but not essential)
- Level 2 qualification in Sports Turf Maintenance or equivalent
- PA1/PA6 pesticide application certificates
- Tractor driving certification
What We Offer
- A leadership role in a dynamic, high‑performance sporting environment
- The opportunity to directly impact the quality of elite playing surfaces
- A competitive salary with performance‑based incentives
- A supportive and collaborative working environment
- Opportunities for development and progression within the organisation
Grounds Team Leader employer: MK Dons
Join Milton Keynes Dons FC as a Grounds Team Leader and immerse yourself in a dynamic, high-performance sporting environment where your expertise will directly enhance the quality of elite playing surfaces. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth, offering competitive salaries and performance-based incentives to ensure our team thrives. With opportunities for development and progression, this role is perfect for those passionate about sports turf management and looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds Team Leader
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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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Grounds Team Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at MK Dons
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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.
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✨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 MK Dons might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
