Introduction

Dinnington Rugby Union Football Club is a thriving, community-based club currently competing at Counties 1 level. Established in 1968, the Club supports senior men's rugby, Colts, Minis & Juniors and Walking Rugby.

Our grounds and playing surfaces are fundamental to everything we do. We are seeking an experienced and practical Groundsman to help maintain, prepare and present the Club's pitches and surrounding outdoor areas so that players of all ages can train and play in safe, high-quality conditions throughout the year.

The Role

The Grounds Person plays a vital role in the successful operation of Dinnington Rugby Union Football Club. Working closely with the Club's leadership and volunteers, the role plays a key part in the care, preparation and maintenance of the Club's playing surfaces and relevant outdoor areas.

The role helps ensure pitches are safe, well presented and prepared for training, matches and other Club activity. It includes routine grounds maintenance, pitch preparation, monitoring playing conditions and identifying maintenance or safety issues that require attention.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with previous grounds maintenance experience who enjoys practical, outdoor work and takes pride in maintaining a high-quality sporting environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain the Club's rugby pitches and outdoor playing areas throughout the year
• Carry out routine grounds maintenance, including mowing, line marking, divoting, watering and general pitch presentation as appropriate
• Assist with seasonal pitch maintenance, renovation and recovery work
• Monitor the condition of playing surfaces and identify issues affecting safety, playability or presentation
• Help assess and communicate pitch conditions ahead of training sessions and matches, working with the appropriate Club officials
• Ensure goalposts, pitch surrounds and other relevant equipment are maintained in a safe and suitable condition
• Use grounds maintenance equipment safely and carry out basic checks and routine care of machinery
• Report equipment faults, maintenance requirements and significant grounds issues promptly
• Help maintain safe access routes and ensure outdoor areas are kept clean, tidy and presentable
• Support match-day preparation and ensure pitches and surrounding areas are ready for use
• Work with Club volunteers, contractors and external specialists where required
• Follow relevant health and safety procedures and support a safe environment for players, volunteers and visitors

Person Specification

• Previous practical experience of grounds maintenance, sports turf management or a similar outdoor maintenance role
• Practical, reliable and willing to take a hands-on approach
• Enjoys working outdoors in all seasons and in a variety of weather conditions
• Takes pride in maintaining high standards and has good attention to detail
• Able to work independently and manage routine tasks effectively
• Able to work collaboratively with Club officials, volunteers and external contractors
• Knowledge of, or experience in, the safe use of grounds maintenance machinery
• Safety conscious and willing to follow appropriate procedures
• Physically able to undertake practical grounds maintenance activities
• Flexible and able to support key Club activities, including occasional weekend work

Experience and Skills

Previous experience in grounds maintenance, sports turf management or a similar practical outdoor maintenance role is required. Experience of maintaining sports pitches, particularly rugby or other grass playing surfaces, would be advantageous.

Experience of mowing, line marking, irrigation, pitch renovation and recovery, and the safe use and basic maintenance of grounds machinery would be beneficial.

The successful candidate will be expected to undertake and complete the Grounds Management Association (GMA) Level 1 qualification, with appropriate support from the Club. Previous rugby experience is not essential.

What You'll Gain

• Play a vital role in ensuring rugby can take place safely and successfully at DRUFC
• Take pride in maintaining the Club's playing surfaces and outdoor environment
• Develop and build on practical skills and knowledge in sports turf and grounds maintenance
• Undertake the Grounds Management Association (GMA) Level 1 qualification with support from the Club
• Work as part of a committed and supportive Club team
• Make a visible and lasting contribution to the Club and local community

Additional Information

• This is a paid, part-time role
• Hours will vary throughout the year according to the needs of the Club, playing season, fixtures and weather conditions, up to a maximum of 14 hours per week
• Some flexibility will be required, including occasional weekend work to support match-day preparation and key Club events
• The successful candidate will be employed in accordance with the Club's relevant terms and conditions of employment
• The successful candidate will be expected to work towards and complete the Grounds Management Association (GMA) Level 1 qualification, with appropriate support from the Club
• Training and support can be provided where required, including guidance on relevant grounds maintenance practices and the safe use of equipment

How to Apply

Please send a brief application outlining your interest and relevant experience to Louise at:

lcockayne76@gmail.com

Subject line: Dinnington Rugby Club – Groundsman

Applications will remain open for three weeks from the date of publication.

For an informal discussion about the role, prospective applicants are welcome to contact any member of the DRUFC Committee.