Job
Description
About AIFF National Centre Of Excellence
The AIFF National Centre of Excellence (NCE), Kolkata, is a premier football training and development facility dedicated to nurturing and enhancing Indian football talentEquipped with world-class infrastructure, it serves as the training base for national teams and various football development programs
Job Summary
The Head Groundsman will be responsible for the overall maintenance, preparation, and quality management of all playing surfaces and outdoor areas at the AIFF National Centre of Excellence, KolkataThis role requires expertise in turf management, irrigation, and sports field maintenance to ensure that all pitches meet international standardsThe ideal candidate will be highly skilled in grounds keeping, possess strong leadership qualities, and have experience in maintaining professional football pitchesKey Responsibilities
Grounds & Pitch Maintenance:Ensure that all natural grass and artificial turf pitches are maintained to the highest standards for training and competitive matchesImplement best practices in turf care, including mowing, aeration, fertilization, seeding, irrigation, and pest control
Monitor and improve soil conditions, drainage, and grass health to maintain high-quality playing surfaces
Prepare pitches according to FIFA/AFC guidelines, ensuring consistency in grass height, firmness, and overall playability
Facility & Equipment Management
Oversee the maintenance and servicing of grounds keeping equipment, including mowers, irrigation systems, and pitch rollersEnsure proper marking, lining, and field setup for different types of football training and matches
Manage sports lighting, goalposts, corner flags, and other pitch-related equipment
Team Supervision & Training
Lead and supervise the grounds keeping team, assigning daily tasks and monitoring performanceTrain staff on modern turf management techniques and safe machinery operation
Maintain a positive work environment that promotes efficiency and teamwork
Health, Safety & Compliance
Adhere to all health and safety regulations concerning grounds maintenance, equipment use, and environmental sustainabilityConduct risk assessments and ensure a safe working environment for staff and players
Manage weather-related field conditions and provide solutions for adverse conditions (e.g., excessive rain or drought)
Planning & Coordination
Develop and implement a seasonal maintenance schedule for the pitches and surrounding areasWork closely with AIFF officials, coaches, and event coordinators to ensure field readiness for training camps, tournaments, and national team activities
Coordinate with vendors and suppliers for procurement of fertilizers, seeds, and other grounds keeping materials
Required Qualifications & Experience
Minimum 10-15 years of experience in grounds keeping, preferably in a professional football or sports facility(Essential)Proven expertise in maintaining football pitches, with knowledge of FIFA/AFC standards for pitch preparationStrong understanding of irrigation systems, drainage solutions, and soil management
Experience in leading a team of grounds staff and coordinating large-scale maintenance projects
Familiarity with modern grounds keeping equipment and best practices in pitch maintenance
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, as per match/training schedules
Knowledge of Indian climate conditions and their impact on football pitch maintenance is an added advantage
Preferred Skills & Attributes
Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skillsAbility to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
Excellent communication and coordination skills
Passion for football and a commitment to maintaining world-class facilities
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experienceOpportunity to work in a high-performance football environment
Professional development and training opportunities
Other benefits as per AIFF policies
How To Apply
Interested candidates should send their updated CV and cover letter to hr@the-aiff.comwith the subject line "Application for Head Groundsman- AIFF NCE, Kolkata" by 28th March, 2025Join us in shaping the future of Indian football by ensuring world-class playing conditions at the AIFF National Centre of Excellence!
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