Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Golf Ball Collector

🎯 Role Definition

As a Golf Ball Collector, you are the engine that keeps our practice facilities running smoothly. You'll be responsible for the entire lifecycle of our range balls, from their retrieval on the course to their washing, sorting, and redistribution. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who can work independently, operate light machinery safely, and understands that their efforts directly impact player satisfaction. You are a key player in maintaining the pristine appearance and operational efficiency of one of our club's most vital assets. This role is perfect for someone seeking an active, outdoor position within the golf industry.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

High School or College Student
Seasonal or Part-Time Laborer
Landscaping or Groundskeeping Assistant
Retiree seeking active employment

Advancement To:

Grounds Crew Lead / Senior Groundskeeper
Assistant Greenskeeper
Driving Range Manager or Supervisor
Equipment Manager

Lateral Moves:

Golf Cart Attendant
Pro Shop Assistant
Greenskeeper / Course Maintenance Crew

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Operate specialized range-picking vehicles and equipment to efficiently and safely retrieve golf balls from the driving range landing area.
Manually collect golf balls from hard-to-reach locations such as water hazards, bunkers, fencelines, and wooded areas.
Execute the washing, cleaning, and sanitizing of all collected golf balls using automated ball washing machinery.
Sort retrieved golf balls according to their condition, brand, and quality, removing any that are cracked, damaged, or overly worn.
Ensure the driving range ball dispensing machines are consistently filled and fully operational for guest use throughout the day.
Perform daily pre-operation inspections and routine preventative maintenance on the range picker, utility vehicles, and ball washing equipment.
Monitor the driving range tee line and landing zones, removing debris, trash, and other hazards to ensure a safe and clean environment for golfers.
Manage and maintain an accurate inventory of golf balls, reporting any shortages or supply needs to the Head Golf Professional or Grounds Superintendent.
Adhere strictly to all club safety protocols and procedures, particularly when operating machinery near active golfers.
Work a flexible schedule which may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays to align with the course's operational needs.
Systematically transport large quantities of golf balls from the collection/washing area to the pro shop or dispenser locations.
Hand-pick the driving range clean on designated days to allow for turf maintenance activities like mowing and aeration.

Secondary Functions

Assist the groundskeeping team with minor course maintenance tasks, such as filling divots, repairing ball marks, or basic landscaping duties as assigned.
Communicate effectively with pro shop staff and groundskeepers regarding the status of the range, ball supply levels, and any equipment issues.
Retrieve and organize empty range ball baskets from the practice areas and return them to the designated stacking points.
Provide friendly and professional assistance to members and guests, answering basic questions about the practice facilities.
Support the setup and breakdown of targets, yardage markers, and other fixtures on the driving range for daily play and special events.
Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the ball storage room, equipment garage, and other assigned work areas.
Keep detailed logs of daily ball collection counts, equipment usage, and any maintenance performed.
Identify and report any damage to the driving range turf, nets, or other club property to the appropriate supervisor.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficient in operating light machinery and utility vehicles (e.g., range pickers, golf carts).
Valid State Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
Basic mechanical aptitude for performing routine equipment checks and minor maintenance.
Ability to repeatedly lift and carry heavy objects, such as baskets of golf balls, weighing up to 50 lbs.
Knowledge of golf course etiquette and the rules of golf to ensure safety and minimal disruption to players.
Physical stamina to work outdoors for extended periods in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain.

Soft Skills

Exceptional reliability and a strong, independent work ethic.
High level of attention to detail to ensure ball quality and range cleanliness.
Excellent time management and organizational skills to complete tasks efficiently without direct supervision.
Proactive and positive attitude with a focus on customer service.
Clear verbal communication skills for coordinating with team members and interacting with guests.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of the broader course operations team.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Relevant Fields of Study:

Turfgrass Management
Hospitality and Recreation

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-1 years. This is an entry-level position and we are willing to train the right candidate.

Preferred:

Previous experience in a general labor role, landscaping, or working at a golf course or similar recreational facility is highly desirable.