Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Golf Ball Picker

🎯 Role Definition

The Golf Ball Picker, often referred to professionally as a Range Attendant, is a foundational role critical to the seamless operation and positive guest experience of any golf driving range. This individual serves as the backbone of the practice facility, ensuring a constant, clean, and high-quality supply of golf balls is available for our members and guests. Far beyond simply collecting balls, this position involves the skilled operation of specialized machinery, meticulous maintenance of the range's appearance and equipment, and a proactive contribution to a safe and welcoming environment for all golfers. It is an active, outdoor role perfectly suited for a dependable, detail-oriented individual who thrives while working both independently and as a vital part of a larger operational team.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

High School or College Student
General Laborer or Landscaping Assistant
Retail or Customer Service Associate

Advancement To:

Lead Range Attendant / Supervisor
Groundskeeping Crew Member
Golf Operations Staff (Starter, Marshall)

Lateral Moves:

Golf Cart Attendant
Clubhouse Maintenance Staff

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Safely and efficiently operate a motorized range-picker vehicle with a high degree of spatial awareness to systematically collect thousands of golf balls across the entire expanse of the driving range.
Perform daily pre-operation safety inspections and function checks on all range equipment, including the picker vehicle, ball washer, and dispenser, reporting any malfunctions or maintenance needs promptly to the supervisor.
Execute the complete ball washing, sorting, and drying process using automated systems, ensuring every ball returned to circulation is impeccably clean, presentable, and free of significant damage or defects.
Meticulously hand-pick golf balls from hard-to-reach areas where machinery cannot operate, such as around targets, along fence lines, in bunkers, and near water hazards, to ensure a comprehensive clearing of the range.
Proactively monitor and maintain an adequate supply of clean golf balls in the automated dispenser, anticipating high-traffic periods to prevent any interruption in service for practicing golfers.
Uphold the overall cleanliness and professional appearance of the driving range tee line, which includes sweeping bays, emptying trash receptacles, and ensuring all station amenities are stocked and orderly.
Assist in the strategic placement, relocation, and routine maintenance of range targets, yardage markers, and other on-range fixtures as directed by the groundskeeping or management team.
Provide courteous, friendly, and basic assistance to golfers, confidently answering simple questions about the range or directing them to the appropriate professional staff for more detailed inquiries.
Adhere strictly to all established safety protocols, course rules, and operational procedures, particularly when operating machinery or working on the range while it is active or during inclement weather.
Consistently perform visual inspections of the entire driving range property for any potential hazards, such as broken equipment, uneven ground, or foreign debris, and report these findings to ensure a safe environment.
Assist in managing the inventory of range balls, participating in regular counts and providing feedback on ball quality, degradation, and loss rates to inform purchasing and budget management.
Maintain the ball storage room, washing area, and equipment sheds in a clean, organized, and secure fashion that complies with all facility safety and cleanliness standards.
Collaborate and communicate effectively with the groundskeeping team to coordinate picking schedules with mowing and other turf maintenance activities, maximizing operational efficiency.
Operate other light-duty utility vehicles (e.g., golf carts) as required to transport supplies, equipment, and personnel safely around the golf facility.
Diligently refill and maintain divot sand containers at each hitting station, encouraging proper turf care and helping to preserve the long-term condition of the tee line.
Regularly adjust and maintain the position of hitting mats and other tee line equipment to ensure they remain safe, level, and properly aligned for optimal guest use.
Demonstrate flexibility by working a varied schedule, which includes early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate the core operational hours of the golf facility.
Communicate clearly with team members and supervisors via two-way radio or in person to coordinate tasks, report on progress, and respond to immediate needs throughout the shift.
Perform minor preventative maintenance on the ball picker and washing equipment under supervision, such as clearing jams, lubricating moving parts, and checking fluid levels.
Uphold a professional and positive demeanor at all times, serving as a positive ambassador for the facility and contributing to a constructive team and guest atmosphere.
Reliably assist in the opening and closing procedures for the driving range, ensuring the area is secure, presentable, and ready for the next day's business.
Respond with a sense of urgency to any immediate needs on the range, such as a depleted ball dispenser during a peak period, demonstrating a proactive and guest-focused approach to service.

Secondary Functions

Assist the golf cart fleet team with cleaning, charging, and staging carts during peak operational times or in the event of staff shortages.
Support the groundskeeping crew with minor landscaping tasks such as raking bunkers, filling divots on the course, or clearing storm debris.
Contribute to facility event setup and breakdown, including moving tables, chairs, and signage for tournaments or corporate outings.
Provide support to the starter or pro shop staff by relaying messages or delivering necessary items to players or staff around the facility.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficient operation of light machinery and utility vehicles.
Basic mechanical aptitude for minor equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
Ability to work safely and effectively in an outdoor environment and in various weather conditions.
Physical stamina to stand, walk, and bend for extended periods and lift/move up to 50 pounds.
Understanding of inventory control principles for managing ball supply.
Knowledge of workplace safety protocols (WHS/OHS).

Soft Skills

Exceptional reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.
Excellent time management and the ability to work efficiently with minimal supervision.
A proactive and self-motivated attitude toward task completion.
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to thoroughness and quality.
Clear verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a cohesive team.
A positive attitude and a customer-service-oriented mindset.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, or currently enrolled.

Preferred Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-1 years of experience in a labor, service, or outdoor role.

Preferred: Previous experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, or at a golf facility is a plus but not required. A valid driver's license is often preferred for operating vehicles.