Cumann Lúthchleas Gael is Ireland’s leading sporting and cultural organisation with membership approaching one million people and more than 500,000 playing participants at all levels. Inspired and supported by the voluntary efforts of its members, the GAA is focused on the development and promotion of Gaelic Games and culture nationally and in local communities.

Home of the GAA, Croke Park Stadium is Ireland’s foremost sporting and entertainment venue. Over 1,500,000 visitors are welcomed annually to national and international events and the Croke Park campus also features Croke Park Meetings & Events and GAA Museum & Tours.

Reporting to the Pitch Manager, an opportunity now arises for a skilled Lead Groundsperson to join the Pitch team and to carry out the day-to-day running of and maintenance of the playing surfaces at Croke Park Stadium. The role holder may be required to assist with the maintenance of the playing surface at the Croke Park Turf Farm in north county Dublin and the National Games Development Centre in Abbottstown, ensuring the expected high standards are achieved.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

• Assist with all grounds services in order to maintain company and professional standards;
• Undertake routine preparation and maintenance work at the Turf Farm and the playing surfaces at Croke Park Stadium and the GAA NGDC;
• Operate tractors with attachments, utility vehicles, mowers and other necessary equipment for the maintenance of the 3 facilities;
• Undertake all preparatory and renovation work to maintain safe, quality playing surfaces;
• Maintain a performance testing approach to pitch management;

• Involvement in the propagation of grass, through planting, fertilising, etc;

• Management of a range of reinforced pitch systems;
• Ensure all vehicles and equipment are regularly maintained in accordance with routine operating requirements;
• Monitor the use and stock levels of consumable items;
• Ensure the safe use, storage, calibration and disposal of pesticides, fertilisers and other similar substances;
• Management of third party contractors;
• Assist in the supervision of seasonal and voluntary pitch staff;
• Make recommendations regarding improved work systems, labour and machinery utilisation.

Essential Criteria:

• FETAC Level 6 Sports Turf Management or City and Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Sports and Amenity Turf Maintenance or equivalent;
• PA1, PA2 and PA6a spraying certificates;
• At least 3 years’ experience in a similar role within the industry;
• Thorough knowledge and experience of pitch technology;

• Proven experience in the use of pitch maintenance machinery and good knowledge of grounds maintenance techniques;
• A full clean driving licence;
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills;
• Strong ability to work independently on own initiative and perform as part of a team;
• Excellent problem solving and time management skills, and attention to detail;
• Awareness and understanding of relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures;
• Ability to work weekends and bank holidays when required;
• Flexibility to work between the Turf Farm, Croke Park Stadium and the GAA National Games Development Centre in Abbotstown;
• An interest in, and knowledge of, Gaelic Games and Croke Park Stadium.

Desirable Criteria:

• Previous experience in a supervisor or managerial role

Candidates interested in the above role should apply by sending an up-to-date cover letter and Curriculum Vitae on or before 3pm on Friday 29th September 2023. Candidates can apply directly on Jobs.ie by clicking here 

Please note the role is subject to Garda Vetting.

The GAA is an equal opportunities employer.