Turf Management as a Career

Do I need to be employed first to do a apprenticeship? Yes, to sign up for a Turf Management Apprenticeship you will need to have employment and the support of your employer.

Where could I look for employment opportunities to get into the industry?

• Keep an eye on our Situations Vacant page - we often advertise Apprentice or Labourer level entry jobs and these are a good way to get started.

• Keep an eye on other employment websites like www.seek.co.nz

• Approach your local Golf Club or Sports Stadium and ask if they are looking for staff.

• If you are still at school talk to your careers adviser and see if they can help set up a meeting to find out more about greenkeeping or possible work experience. Your school may offer experience through the gateway initiative.

• Register your interest with the Primary ITO - they may know of a club looking for a Apprentice.

Do I need a qualification first to start work in the turf industry? No, generally there is opportunity for labourer, short term contract, summer season type work to get in into the industry. Lots of clubs will offer apprenticeships to help get you qualified; this is how most people gain their qualification. If you complete an apprenticeship and get qualified it will increase your opportunities, progression and earning potential.

Do I need to be interested in or play golf? No, you don’t need to be able to play golf but an interest in the game may help. An interest in working outdoors, sports and agronomy (soil, grass, turf, plants, trees) is beneficial.

Is Turf Management only working on Golf Courses? Turf management is not only limited to golf courses, though they make up a large portion of the industry. There is also opportunities to use your skills and qualifications in areas like management and upkeep of sports fields - think places like sports stadiums, cricket pitches, soccer, rugby fields and bowling greens, looking after council fields and parks, upkeep of school fields, resort type venues, high end lawns and gardens to name a few.

Turf management skills and qualifications can be taken overseas - in fact NZ Greenkeepers have a fantastic reputation overseas and get offered some amazing opportunities.

Turf Management is for everyone! Turf management careers are for everyone – male, female, all ages and ethnicities. We are a diverse and inclusive industry with a passion for what we do. Take the first step and contact us to find out about the Science Behind the Game.