Deputy Head Groundsperson

We’re looking for a Deputy Head Groundsperson to join our Groundstaff team at Trent Bridge — one of the world’s most iconic cricket venues. In this hands-on and leadership-focused role, you’ll support the Head Groundsman in preparing and maintaining top-quality pitches and practice facilities, helping ensure Trent Bridge continues to meet the highest international and Test Match standards.

Role profile:

Specific Responsibilities:

1. Grounds Maintenance

• Assist in the preparation and maintenance of all playing surfaces, outfields, and practice areas at Trent Bridge and Lady Bay to the highest possible standards, meeting ECB and international expectations.
• Deputise for the Head Groundsmen in their absence, assuming responsibility for the management of grounds preparation and operational decision-making.
• Ensure all practice areas and nets are maintained to international team standards, providing high-quality training environments.
• Support in the preparation and set-up for all matches, ensuring grounds are ready for play at the earliest opportunity following inclement weather.
• Assist with the placement and removal of covers and the removal of surface water from the playing area when required.
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of machinery, tools, and equipment to ensure they are in safe working condition and compliant with best practice.
• Ensure all work complies with ECB regulations for pitch preparation and liaise with the ECB Pitch and Grounds Advisor as appropriate.
• Identify and report opportunities for continuous improvement in grounds maintenance processes and facilities.
• Operate ground machinery safely and in accordance with manufacturer and Club procedures.

2. People Management & Team Support

• Support the Head Groundsmen in leading and supervising the grounds team, providing direction, motivation, and guidance, ensuring standards are maintained and Health & Safety procedures are followed.
• Assist with staff training, onboarding, and development, including casual groundstaff.
• Take an active role in team meetings and contribute ideas for improvement.
• Support a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment, aligned with the Club’s values and culture.
• Act as a mentor for junior or trainee groundstaff where required.

3. Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Ensure Health & Safety is prioritised in all operations, with appropriate risk assessments completed and safe systems of work maintained.
• Comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and related regulations.
• Ensure safe handling and use of machinery, chemicals, and equipment, reporting any defects or hazards immediately.
• Promote a culture of safe working practices throughout the grounds team.

4. Professional Development & Continuous Improvement

• Support the Head Grounds Men in identifying and implementing a programme of continuing professional development (CPD) for the grounds team.
• Take personal responsibility for maintaining and developing professional skills and technical knowledge.
• Keep up to date with best practices, technological advances, and ECB guidelines relating to pitch preparation and grounds management.

Person Specification:

Experience

Essential:

• Experience within a First-Class county or international cricket venue
• Deputising for a Head Grounds Manager or supervising a small team
• Practical experience in sports turf management or groundskeeping, preferably within cricket or a similar elite sports environment
• Experience in preparing and maintaining cricket pitches, outfields, and practice areas
• Experience operating turf machinery safely and effectively

Desirable:

• Experience with multiple cricket formats (Test, ODI, T20, U19)

Knowledge

Essential:

• Understanding of Health & Safety legislation and safe working practices for grounds maintenance
• Awareness of ECB regulations and directives regarding pitch preparation, maintenance, and match standards
• Knowledge of basic turf management, machinery, and irrigation systems

Desirable:

• Detailed knowledge of sports turf agronomy, drainage, and pitch performance characteristics
• Familiarity with international cricket ground standards and practices

Skills

Essential:

• Competent in the use of grounds machinery and equipment, including ride-on mowers, rollers, and irrigation systems
• Ability to follow instructions accurately and work effectively under supervision
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks to meet match deadlines
• Good teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills

Desirable:

• Basic mechanical troubleshooting and equipment maintenance skills
• IT literacy (e.g., digital pitch diaries, maintenance software, Microsoft Office)

Qualifications

Essential:

• NVQ Level 2 in Sports Turf Management, Amenity Horticulture, or equivalent
• PA1/PA6 pesticide application certification or willingness to obtain

Desirable:

• NVQ Level 3 or higher in Sports Turf Management
• First Aid at Work qualification

Personal Qualities & Attitude

Essential:

• Reliable, punctual, and professional
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently when required
• Flexible and adaptable, willing to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours during the cricket season
• Attention to detail and a strong commitment to maintaining high standards

Desirable:

• Innovative and willing to suggest improvements to processes or practices
• Positive ambassador for the Club, embracing its values and culture

Other

Essential:

• Full UK driving licence
• Willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check
• Ability to work across multiple sites (Trent Bridge, Lady Bay, and other Club grounds)

Desirable:

• Ability to travel to other venues for training, matches, or professional development
• Full UK driving licence; able to work across multiple sites and complete an enhanced DBS check

Key timelines:

For a full job description, including the person specification please visit https://www.trentbridge.co.uk/jobs/index.html

If you would like to join us at Trent Bridge, please apply through our recruitment link at https://nottinghamshirecountycricketclub.livevacancies.co.uk/#/job/details/26

If you have any questions please email the HR Department at: recruitment@trentbridge.co.uk

Closing date for receipt of applications will be: 17:00 Sunday 1st February 2026

Interview date will be: 5th and 6th February 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults and expect the same commitment from all staff and volunteers

We are an equal opportunity employer. we celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees. when submitting your details, please let us know if you require any support or reasonable adjustments during the interview process

No agencies please