At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and develop sports grounds to ensure high-quality playing surfaces.
- Company: Join the Royal Agricultural University, committed to excellence in sport and wellbeing.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £26,707, full-time hours, and a vibrant campus environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and collaboration with sports teams.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that enhances student experiences through top-notch sports facilities.
- Qualifications: Experience in grounds maintenance and a passion for outdoor work required.
The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) is committed to providing an outstanding environment for learning, sport and wellbeing. As part of the University's long-term investment in its campus and sporting facilities, we are seeking a Grounds and Pitch Care Operative to help maintain and develop our sports grounds to the highest possible standards.
This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and practical individual to play a key role in the care and development of the University's natural and artificial playing surfaces. Working throughout the seasons, the successful candidate will help ensure that our sports pitches provide a safe, high-quality experience for students, staff, visiting teams and commercial users.
The role is largely outdoors, involves physically demanding work and requires confidence in working independently, while also collaborating closely with colleagues across the University. The successful candidate will undertake a wide range of grounds maintenance activities, including:
- mowing
- marking
- aeration
- fertilising
- scarifying
- seeding
- top dressing
They will also be responsible for maintaining sports equipment and grounds machinery, carrying out routine safety and condition checks, and ensuring all playing surfaces remain safe, fit for purpose and match ready.
Working with colleagues from RAU Sport, the Students' Union and external users, the postholder will help coordinate pitch usage and maintenance programmes to maximise the quality and availability of facilities throughout the year. They will maintain accurate maintenance records, contribute to effective campus-wide grounds maintenance, and ensure all work is carried out in accordance with the University's Health and Safety procedures.
We welcome applications from individuals with experience in sports turf or grounds maintenance who have a good understanding of pitch renovation and maintenance practices. Applicants should have experience of maintaining sports grounds to a high standard, be physically able to undertake the demands of the role, and demonstrate excellent organisation, initiative and a flexible approach to work. A qualification in sports turf management, spraying certificates (or progress towards obtaining them), and experience of working collaboratively with sports teams or facility users would be advantageous.
For a full job description and details on how to apply please click apply.
Closing date: 30 August 2026
Interviews: 11 September 2026
The RAU is an equal opportunities employer and we particularly welcome applications from black and minority ethnic candidates as they are underrepresented within the RAU at this level.
Grounds and Pitch Care Operative employer: Royal Agricultural University
The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and innovative work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Located in the picturesque Cirencester, RAU provides its staff with generous benefits, including a 35-hour working week and 30 days of annual leave, fostering a healthy work-life balance while allowing educators to engage deeply with students and industry professionals alike.
Contact Details:
Royal Agricultural University Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds and Pitch Care Operative
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨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
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Royal Agricultural University often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Grounds and Pitch Care Operative
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 Royal Agricultural University does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Agricultural University
✨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 Royal Agricultural University 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 Royal Agricultural University.
✨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 Royal Agricultural University.
