The way into and further in the greenkeeper trade

Greenkeeping is for you who want to work outdoors, like machines and find it satisfying to see the result of your work grow. It combines practical craftsmanship, knowledge of nature and technology — and a good eye for when a course is in top condition.

As a greenkeeper you maintain golf courses football fields stadiums and other green facilities. You mow water fertilise aerate and repair you keep an eye out for disease and wear and you operate and maintain machinery. You work in teams and plan according to weather and season so the course is always ready for use.

You typically start with a basic course at a vocational college and then need an apprenticeship place, for example at a golf club or a green space. The programme alternates between school periods and on-the-job training, so you both learn the theory of grass, soil and machinery and use it in real life. As an apprentice you are paid during the programme and finish with a trade test.

• 01On golf courses and in golf clubs.
• 02On football fields and stadiums.
• 03With municipalities and landscape gardening companies with sports facilities.
• 04On other green sports and recreation facilities.
• 05With leadership of a track team in time.

With your education behind you, you can specialise, become head greenkeeper with responsibility for an entire facility and a team, or pursue further training in the green sector. Increasing focus on environment, water conservation and biodiversity creates new opportunities for greenkeepers who can think sustainably. The profession combines fresh air, technology and nature — and you see the results of your work every single day.

“The best thing about the trade is that you go home and can see what you have created.”

— Greenkeepers' working hours