Greenkeeper
Look after sports grounds and make sure the turf is always in top condition.
About the job
Salary
Source: LMI for All
Weekly
£440
Average
Monthly
£1,906
Average
Yearly
£22,880
Average
2,700
people are currently employed
Low growth
No change in number of jobs in 5 years
These figures refer to this job and similar ones with comparable skills and qualifications. They only apply to Scotland. Source: Oxford Economics
What it's like
You would look after sports grounds, such as football, cricket and rugby pitches, bowling greens, tennis courts, racecourses and golf courses.
Your main responsibility would be to manage the soil and grass to make sure the turf is always in top condition.
You would:
Prepare land for turf to be laid
Apply nutrients
Roll and mow the turf
Identify and control weeds
Set out and mark lines on surfaces
Install and maintain equipment like nets, posts and protective covers
Maintain irrigation and drainage systems
Look after surrounding areas - plant displays, concrete or tarmac
Operate equipment like hedge cutters, strimmers and ride-on mowers
Paint, remove rubbish and carry out general duties
Tasks would vary according to the season and weather conditions.
You’d be using heavy machinery so you would need to be aware of health and safety issues. You’d also need to be able to understand plans and drawings.
Hours
Environment
Travel
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- creative
- building relationships
- verbal communication
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
- taking initiative
- time management
- taking responsibility
Your skills are important
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Getting in
Explore the sections shown for more information about getting into this career.
You might have qualifications which are not shown here but will allow you access to a course. You can compare your qualifications by looking at their SCQF Level. For more information about this, check out the SCQF website.
Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Environmental Science
Practical Craft Skills
Science
Skills for Work: Rural Skills
There are no set qualifications, but an interest in horticulture and working outside would be essential.
You could enter this job through a Modern Apprenticeship in Horticulture (SCQF Level 5).
You'd need to be physically fit and happy working outdoors. You might also need a driving licence.
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Greenkeeper'
