At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and improve grassroots football pitches across Staffordshire with a focus on quality.
- Company: Join the progressive Staffordshire FA, dedicated to enhancing local football facilities.
- Benefits: Ongoing personal development, access to high-quality equipment, and networking opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with evening and weekend work; great for those who love teamwork and outdoor activities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in grassroots football while working outdoors and supporting your community.
- Qualifications: A full, clean driving licence and a passion for maintaining sports facilities.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Staffordshire FA are seeking to recruit a highly committed and capable Grounds & Pitch Care Operative to play a central role in maintaining and improving grassroots football facilities across the County. With major developments underway, including the new Sports Hub in Uttoxeter, this position will be key in delivering high-quality pitches and supporting the long-term growth of the grassroots game.
About the Role
The Grounds & Pitch Care Operative will help ensure that football across Staffordshire is played on safe, high-quality surfaces by maintaining pitches at Staffordshire FA Hub sites and delivering pitch care services at community venues across the County. This physically demanding, predominantly outdoor role requires significant lone working, regular travel, and a flexible approach shaped by seasonal demands. Working at the heart of grassroots football, the postholder will help reduce cancellations, support volunteers, improve local knowledge through workshops, and enhance the experience of players, coaches, match officials, and clubs. The role is suited to someone who takes pride in their work, values community impact, and is motivated by supporting the grassroots game. The successful candidate will be based at the new Sports Hub in Uttoxeter, operating across Staffordshire with access to specialist machinery and equipment.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain all pitches and grounds at Staffordshire FA Hub sites, including natural grass, 3G surfaces, landscaped areas, hedgerows, and car parks.
- Deliver countywide pitch maintenance operations, including aeration, scarification, seeding, line marking, mowing, and weeding using specialist equipment.
- Provide support, advice, and education to grassroots volunteers through in-person and online workshops.
- Safely operate, maintain, and clean all Staffordshire FA pitch maintenance equipment.
- Conduct PitchPower assessments and contribute to improving grass pitch standards in line with national priorities.
- Undertake extensive travel using Staffordshire FA vehicles, with evening and weekend work as required.
- Adapt to seasonal demands and variable workloads, including winter downtime.
- Build strong working relationships with clubs, local authorities, and partners.
- Support pitch improvement for non-football grassroots sports where appropriate.
What Staffordshire FA Will Provide
- A friendly, supportive professional team
- Ongoing personal development and one-to-one support
- Designated training time
- Opportunities to gain extensive grassroots experience
- Access to high-quality equipment and facilities
- Networking and partnership opportunities
About Staffordshire FA
Founded in 1877, Staffordshire FA is responsible for governing and developing football across the County. With over 2,300 teams and 30,000 players, the organisation works to provide safe, inclusive, high-quality opportunities for all participants. It is a progressive, forward-thinking County FA committed to supporting clubs, volunteers, coaches, and officials while improving local facilities and the overall football experience.
How to Apply
For further information, please contact: Kevin Staples (Head of Delivery) Kevin.Staples@StaffordshireFA.com 01785 256994
To apply: Download the recruitment pack below and follow the enclosed instructions. Closing date: Monday 12th January 2026
Staffordshire FA are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. A full, clean driving licence is required. Please note: The vacancy may close early if sufficient applications are received.
Staffordshire FA - Grounds & Pitch Care Operative employer: The FA
Staffordshire FA is an excellent employer for those passionate about grassroots football, offering a supportive and friendly work environment at the new Sports Hub in Uttoxeter. Employees benefit from ongoing personal development, access to high-quality equipment, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact on local communities through football. With a commitment to equality and inclusivity, Staffordshire FA fosters a culture of collaboration and growth, making it an ideal place for individuals dedicated to enhancing the football experience for all participants.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Staffordshire FA - Grounds & Pitch Care Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the grassroots football scene in Staffordshire. Attend local matches, chat with coaches and volunteers, and immerse yourself in the community. This will not only help you understand the needs of the role but also show your genuine interest when you meet potential employers.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Reach out to people already working in the field, whether through social media or local events. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 3
When you get an interview, be ready to showcase your passion for maintaining high-quality pitches. Share any relevant experiences you have, even if they’re from volunteer work or personal projects. It’s all about demonstrating your commitment to the grassroots game!
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about landing the job. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Staffordshire FA - Grounds & Pitch Care Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Grassroots Football:When writing your application, let us know why grassroots football matters to you. Share any experiences you've had in the community or how you've contributed to local sports. This will help us see your commitment to the role!
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous experience you have with pitch maintenance or working outdoors. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Grounds & Pitch Care Operative position.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if necessary to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate clarity, especially when it comes to your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you follow the correct process. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Staffordshire FA!
How to prepare for a job interview at The FA
✨Know Your Grass
Familiarise yourself with the different types of pitches you'll be working on, like natural grass and 3G surfaces. Understanding their maintenance needs will show your commitment to quality care and impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Community Spirit
Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to grassroots football. Share any past experiences where you've supported local teams or volunteers, as this role is all about enhancing community engagement and player experience.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about pitch maintenance techniques and equipment. Brush up on your knowledge of aeration, scarification, and line marking, and be prepared to explain how you would handle seasonal challenges in pitch care.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Teamwork
This role involves lone working and collaboration with various stakeholders. Highlight your ability to adapt to changing demands and your experience in building strong relationships with clubs and local authorities.
