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Golf Greens Supervisor

💰 $55,000 - $75,000

HorticultureAgronomySports ManagementGroundskeeping

🎯 Role Definition

As a Golf Greens Supervisor, you are a key leader within the agronomy department, acting as the right hand to the Golf Course Superintendent. You will be responsible for the direct supervision of the grounds crew and the hands-on management of the golf course's most critical assets: the greens, tees, and fairways. This role demands a blend of scientific knowledge in turfgrass management, strong leadership skills, and a relentless passion for creating exceptional playing surfaces. You will be instrumental in executing the agronomic plan, managing projects, and fostering a safe, productive, and positive team environment, all while ensuring the course is consistently presented in tournament-ready condition.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Assistant-in-Training (AIT)
  • Lead Greenskeeper / Foreman
  • Irrigation Technician / Spray Technician

Advancement To:

  • Assistant Golf Course Superintendent
  • Senior Assistant Superintendent
  • Golf Course Superintendent

Lateral Moves:

  • Sports Turf Manager (Stadiums, Athletic Complexes)
  • Head Groundskeeper (Municipal or University)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Supervise and coordinate the daily work of the greenskeeping crew, assigning tasks for mowing, course setup, and project work to ensure efficient completion of all maintenance activities.
  • Direct and participate in the precise mowing, rolling, and cultural management of putting greens, tees, fairways, and roughs to meet exacting playability and aesthetic standards.
  • Execute and oversee the comprehensive agronomic program, including the precise calibration of equipment and the timely application of fertilizers, pesticides, and other turf care products.
  • Manage the golf course's irrigation system, conducting daily monitoring, performing system repairs, and making data-driven adjustments to ensure optimal moisture levels and water conservation.
  • Actively assist the Golf Course Superintendent in developing, planning, and executing the annual agronomic plan and the corresponding maintenance budget.
  • Lead the comprehensive training, professional development, and safety education for all maintenance staff, focusing on proper equipment operation, chemical handling, and OSHA compliance.
  • Conduct daily course inspections and scouting to identify and diagnose turfgrass diseases, insect pressures, and weed infestations, implementing timely and effective control measures.
  • Manage and execute small-scale course improvement projects, including sod work, bunker renovations, and drainage installations, from initial planning through to completion.
  • Maintain meticulous and organized records of all maintenance procedures, chemical and fertilizer applications, irrigation usage, and daily weather data for analysis and regulatory reporting.
  • Personally calibrate and ensure the proper functioning of all application equipment, including boom sprayers, granular spreaders, and backpack units, to guarantee accuracy and safety.
  • Play a key leadership role in executing major cultural practices such as core and solid tine aerification, verticutting, topdressing, and deep-tine aeration.
  • Ensure unwavering compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations governing pesticide use, environmental protection (BMPs), and workplace safety.
  • Oversee inventory management for all maintenance supplies, including sand, seed, fertilizer, chemicals, and repair parts, and assist in the procurement process.
  • Collaborate effectively with the Head Golf Professional, Club Manager, and other department heads to coordinate maintenance schedules around tournaments, events, and daily play.
  • Demonstrate hands-on leadership by operating all types of light and heavy turf maintenance equipment as required to support the team and lead by example.
  • Lead productive morning meetings to clearly communicate daily goals, delegate assignments, and reinforce critical safety protocols for the grounds crew.
  • Provide direct input to the Superintendent on budget management, helping to track expenses and identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiency.
  • Perform advanced moisture management on putting greens and other high-priority turf areas using tools like TDR moisture meters, POGO, and targeted hand watering techniques.
  • Supervise the maintenance and grooming of the golf course's landscape beds, trees, and native areas to ensure they align with the overall aesthetic vision of the property.
  • Assist the Equipment Manager in diagnosing equipment issues and ensuring the preventative maintenance schedule for the entire fleet is strictly followed.
  • Assume full responsibility for golf course operations and team management in the absence of the Golf Course Superintendent.
  • Champion a positive, team-oriented work culture focused on quality, safety, and continuous improvement within the maintenance department.

Secondary Functions

  • Analyze turf health data from sources like soil sensors and drones to provide actionable reports to the Superintendent.
  • Contribute to the adoption and integration of new agronomic technologies and data-driven maintenance practices.
  • Collaborate with the Pro Shop, Food & Beverage, and Membership departments to ensure maintenance activities enhance the overall member and guest experience.
  • Participate in regular agronomy team meetings to discuss strategic planning, operational challenges, and upcoming projects.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Advanced Turfgrass Management (Bentgrass, Bermuda, Zoysia, etc.)
  • Pesticide & Fertilizer Application (State Applicator's License preferred)
  • Irrigation System Management, Troubleshooting & Repair (e.g., Toro Lynx, Rain Bird Cirrus)
  • Calibration of Spray & Spreader Equipment
  • Operation of Heavy and Specialized Golf Course Equipment
  • Turfgrass Disease, Insect, and Weed Identification and Control
  • Soil and Water Sample Analysis and Interpretation
  • Project Management for In-House Course Enhancements
  • Budgeting and Expense Tracking for Maintenance Operations
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Agronomic Software
  • Understanding of USGA Specifications for Greens Construction and Maintenance

Soft Skills

  • Leadership & Crew Management
  • Clear & Proactive Communication
  • Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving
  • Exceptional Attention to Detail
  • Time Management & Prioritization
  • Adaptability & Resilience
  • Strong Work Ethic & Hands-On Mentality
  • Positive Attitude & Team Building

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Associate's Degree or a 2-year Certificate in a related field.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Turfgrass Management / Turf Science
  • Agronomy
  • Horticulture
  • Plant Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience on a golf course maintenance team.

Preferred:

  • Prior supervisory experience (e.g., Assistant-in-Training, Foreman, Spray Tech) at a high-quality private club or resort. Possession of a state-issued Pesticide Applicator's License.
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