Grounds Supervisor - Papakura

For more than 30 years, PAE has proudly partnered with the New Zealand Defence Force, delivering facilities and asset management services that keep critical environments operating effectively.
As a proudly iwi-owned organisation, we embrace our role as kaitiaki of the environments and communities we support. Our approach is grounded in manaakitanga, building strong relationships based on respect, care, and collaboration.
We are currently seeking an experienced Grounds Supervisor to lead our Grounds Maintenance team at Papakura Military Camp. 
Why This Role?
This is an opportunity to lead a dedicated team responsible for maintaining and enhancing one of New Zealand's largest and most diverse Defence estates. Working across a single site, you'll oversee a wide range of grounds and landscape maintenance activities while ensuring the camp remains safe, compliant, and professionally presented. 
About the Role
You will be responsible for coordinating daily grounds operations, leading your team, and ensuring all maintenance activities are delivered safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. You'll play a key role in maintaining lawns, landscaped areas, sports fields, trees, gardens, irrigation systems, and environmental assets across the camp. 
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and coordinate daily, weekly, and seasonal grounds maintenance programmes
  • Supervise mowing, planting, irrigation, horticultural maintenance, and pest control activities
  • Plan and schedule maintenance work to meet operational and contractual requirements
  • Oversee minor improvement and landscaping projects
  • Manage procurement of materials, equipment, plants, and consumables
  • Ensure grounds maintenance equipment is maintained, serviced, and fit for purpose
  • Conduct quality inspections and ensure grounds standards are consistently achieved
  • Develop and maintain seasonal planting and landscape improvement plans
  • Build strong working relationships with NZDF representatives, subcontractors, and suppliers
  • Maintain accurate records, reports, and maintenance documentation
  • Promote a strong health, safety, and environmental culture across the team
  • Lead, coach, and develop team members to achieve high performance and service excellence
To be successful in this role, you'll bring:
  • Minimum 5 years' experience in grounds, parks, landscaping, or horticultural maintenance
  • Previous supervisory or team leadership experience
  • Relevant horticultural qualification (Level 3 or above) or equivalent industry experience
  • Experience managing grounds maintenance machinery and equipment
  • Sound knowledge of health and safety practices
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and maintenance management systems
  • Full New Zealand Driver Licence
  • Ability to obtain and maintain NZDF Security Clearance and pass a Ministry of Justice check 
Why Join PAE?
  • Lead a skilled and dedicated grounds maintenance team
  • Work across a single, secure Defence site
  • Enjoy a varied role combining operational leadership, planning, and hands-on support
  • Contribute to maintaining critical infrastructure and outdoor environments that support New Zealand Defence Force operations
  • Join a values-driven organisation committed to safety, sustainability, and community
  • Be part of a supportive team culture where your expertise and leadership are valued
If you're passionate about leading people, maintaining high standards, and creating well-presented outdoor environments, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now through SEEK or via the PAE Careers Page.
Please note: Applications must be submitted through SEEK or the PAE Careers website.
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