
About the Grounds Team:
Our Grounds team are the dedicated professionals responsible for maintaining and enhancing the pitch and surrounding areas to the highest standards. They play a vital role in ensuring that the playing surface is safe, beautiful, and in top condition for every match and event. With a strong focus on quality, attention to detail, and safety, the team works tirelessly year-round to create an environment that reflects the pride of the club. Their expertise and commitment help deliver an exceptional experience for players, staff, and supporters alike, all while preserving the iconic look and feel of our home ground.
The Opportunity:
The Apprentice Groundsperson will support the daily maintenance of the club’s playing surfaces and surrounding areas, ensuring high standards of pitch quality and safety. This includes assisting with mowing, watering, fertilizing, aeration, and scarification of the turf, as well as helping prepare the pitch for matches, training sessions, and other events. The role involves supporting the maintenance and servicing of groundskeeping equipment and machinery, ensuring they are kept in good working condition. The apprentice will contribute to seasonal tasks such as turf renovation, aeration, and fertilization programs, alongside maintaining external areas, pathways, and spectator zones. Throughout their apprenticeship, they will participate in training programs designed to develop their skills and knowledge in turf management and grounds maintenance. Collaboration with the grounds team to ensure operational efficiency and high standards of pitch presentation will be key, as well as adhering to all health and safety procedures during groundskeeping activities. Flexibility to work outside of standard hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and matchdays, will be required to support the club’s operational needs.
What We Ask For:
The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong willingness to engage in and complete the NVQ Level 2 Sports Turf Apprenticeship, showing enthusiasm for learning and development within grounds maintenance. Good physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions are essential, as the role involves manual work and exposure to different environments. Attention to detail and a proactive approach to tasks are important to ensure high standards of pitch and grounds maintenance. The candidate should be reliable, with good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. A positive attitude, eagerness to learn, and a commitment to developing skills in turf management and groundskeeping are key qualities for success in this apprenticeship.
You will be required to obtain an Enhanced DBS through SAFC.

Sunderland AFC is rightfully mentioned amongst world football’s oldest and successful names.
Founded in 1879, the club has a proud history and heritage which underpins its role in the regional, national and international footballing community.
The club have been crowned champions of England’s top division on six occasions and won two FA Cups, and the famous faces and events of the past are still held in the highest regard today.
The club's superb home is the Stadium of Light, which opened in 1997 and had a capacity of 49,000.