Head Groundsperson (Sportsground)

The Role

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is seeking an experienced and motivated Head Groundsperson to take responsibility for the day‑to‑day management and development of the College Sportsground at Wilberforce Road, Cambridge.

Set on an 8‑acre standalone site, the Sportsground supports a wide range of activities including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, and netball, and plays an important role in College life. This is a hands‑on, autonomous position combining practical grounds expertise with site management, user engagement, and responsibility for standards, safety, and security.

The postholder works closely with the Head Gardener on operational matters and the Director of Operations on strategic planning.

Please see the job description and person specification for further details.

About You

• Relevant qualification or equivalent experience in sports turf management, grounds maintenance, horticulture, or land‑based operations
• Proven experience maintaining sports pitches and facilities
• Strong knowledge of grounds machinery, Health & Safety legislation, and safe chemical use
• The ability to work independently, plan workloads, and respond calmly to urgent situations
• A friendly, professional, and customer‑focused approach
• Excellent communication and organisation skills

The postholder must have a full, clean driving licence. Desirable qualifications include PA1/PA6 certification, a recognised sports turf qualification, First Aid training, and coaching experience.

Why Join [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]?

• A varied and respected role within one of Cambridge’s leading Colleges
• Significant autonomy and responsibility over a dedicated sports site
• Rent‑free on‑site accommodation, supporting on‑call responsibilities
• Opportunities for training, professional development, and long‑term contribution to College life

How to Apply

Closing date for applications is Thursday 7th May 2026 at 4 pm. Interviews are expected to be held on Thursday 14th May 2026.

The College reserves the right to withdraw the advert before the closing date if there is significant interest in the position.

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is an equal opportunities employer.

About [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], affectionately known as ‘Emma’ is set in extensive, beautiful (yet peaceful) grounds, in central Cambridge. With a reputation as an inclusive, vibrant, and friendly community, Emma is home to around 700 students (under and postgraduate), 90 Fellows and 170 college staff and is managed, overall, by the Master, Bursar and Senior Tutor.

Being employed at Emma means being a part of long-standing College community, steeped in history and prestige.

Benefits

• Excellent Pension Schemes
• Private Healthcare Options
• Travel to Work Loan Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Generous Annual Leave
• Free Lunch On-Site
• On-Site Pool & Gym
• Training & Development

Documents: Head Groundsperson Job Description.pdf