2IC / Groundsperson

About the role Te Aroha Jockey Club is seeking a dedicated Grounds Person / 2IC to join the team. Working alongside the Course Manager, you will play a vital role in the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and top-tier presentation of the Te Aroha Racecourse. This is a dynamic, outdoors role that combines hands-on track and grounds work with leadership responsibilities. As 2IC, you'll step into the Course Manager's shoes when they are absent—taking charge of daily operations, directing staff, and reporting directly to the Te Aroha Jockey Club Committee. Key responsibilities Assist the Course Manager with daily work planning, supervise staff/contractors, and confidently run daily operations when the Course Manager is away. Maintain the racing surface (mowing, watering, irrigation, drainage, and rail movements) as well as surrounding lawns, gardens, fencing, and racecourse infrastructure. Set up railings, markers, barriers, and signage for race meetings, trials, and trackwork. Ensure the grounds are safe, immaculate, and ready for horses, jockeys, and the public. Safely operate and carry out routine maintenance on tractors, mowers, rollers, and irrigation systems. Maintain a safe environment across the course, manage hazards, and ensure compliance for all staff, contractors, and visitors. About you Proactive, organized, and confident working independently or leading a small team. Comfortable operating tractors, commercial mowers, and turf machinery (or a strong willingness to learn). Great teamwork skills, with the maturity to make sensible decisions when in charge. Thrives in a physical, outdoors role in all weather conditions. Willing to work flexibly around race meetings, trials, trackwork, and events. Experience in turf management, farming, horticulture, groundskeeping, or machinery operation is an advantage. What We’re Looking For • Practical & Self-Motivated: Proactive, organized, and confident working independently or leading a small team. • Machinery Experience: Comfortable operating tractors, commercial mowers, and turf machinery (or a strong willingness to learn). • Communication & Leadership: Great teamwork skills, with the maturity to make sensible decisions when in charge. • Fit & Outdoorsy: Thrives in a physical, outdoors role in all weather conditions. • Flexibility: Willing to work flexibly around race meetings, trials, trackwork, and events. Background & Experience: Experience in turf management, farming, horticulture, groundskeeping, or machinery operation is an advantage. Previous racing industry experience is NOT essential—we value the right attitude, strong practical skills, and a willingness to learn! Why Join Us? • Take ownership of a scenic, high-profile community sports facility. • A clear path for career growth and leadership development. • A supportive committee and team culture.