Position descriptions

Golf course maintenance staff

These sample job descriptions provide an outline for the positions most commonly found in golf course maintenance operations. Because each golf operation is unique, these sample position descriptions will be most useful if customized for a particular operation. Job descriptions and actual duties may not always coincide. Due to the dynamic nature and diversity of work required in golf course management, it would be unrealistic to expect strictly outlined job descriptions to apply in every case. Job responsibilities may overlap categories at any given point in time. Under normal operations, it would be understandable to ask employees occasionally to perform work outside their usual job descriptions.

Overview

Golf course superintendents are entrusted with the maintenance, operations and management of a golf course. Golf course superintendents carefully manage the maintenance inputs to the golf course while conserving and protecting natural resources. They directly influence the playing areas and landscapes with which golfers interact.

General responsibilities

  • Leads the construction and maintenance of the golf course(s).
  • Leads the maintenance and repair of construction and golf course maintenance equipment.
  • Rendering professional advice, opinions, assistance and services to the facility's board of directors or managing body as required.
  • Participating in all long-range planning meetings.

Reporting

The golf course superintendent typically reports directly to one of the following individuals:

  • General manager
  • Green chairman
  • Owner
  • Director of golf
  • Director of golf courses/director of parks and recreation
  • Club president

In all instances, the golf course superintendent coordinates operations with the club manager and golf professional. In membership club organizations, the golf course superintendent also communicates and coordinates with all relevant membership groups and committees.

Typical functions

The golf course superintendent assumes responsibility for managing and maintaining golf course properties, which may include:

  • The golf course(s)
  • Maintenance equipment
  • The golf car fleet
  • Clubhouse grounds and landscaping
  • Tennis courts, swimming pool and other recreational facilities
  • Open spaces, wooded areas, unused acreage and areas outside the perimeter fence
  • Sod farm and nursery
  • Other properties as specified in writing by the superintendent's supervisor

Additional functions

  • Construction, renovation and/or reconstruction of such properties, whether performed by maintenance staff or outside contractors.
  • Prepares the annual budgets for the maintenance and capital improvement of course properties. The superintendent formulates the annual maintenance and capital budgets so as to implement board policies established in accordance with the long-range plan and defined maintenance standards.
  • Interviews, hires, trains and supervises a staff of employees for the purpose of maintaining the properties. The superintendent has authority to terminate employment of subordinates.
  • Plans all maintenance and project work, applying his or her agronomic and administrative expertise to achieve the agreed-upon maintenance standards and long-range goals.
  • Oversees the scheduling and routing of personnel and equipment to accomplish the work. The superintendent frequently inspects the golf course and related areas to evaluate how well management standards are being achieved and to effect changes in management programs.
  • Acquires equipment and purchases necessary supplies to maintain the golf course and other properties. The superintendent is responsible for inventory control and oversees the equipment maintenance programs. The superintendent approves all expenditures and exercises cost control measures to keep, as nearly as possible, operating and capital expenses in line with the approved budgets.
  • Keeps accurate and complete records on payroll, inventory, weather data, maintenance procedures, pesticide applications, etc.
  • Communicates regularly with other members of the top management group to discuss activities, goals, plans and member/customer input.

Employment standards

  • Advanced knowledge of agronomy and turfgrass management practices; a working knowledge of golf facility construction principles, practices and methods; and a thorough understanding of the rules and strategies of the game of golf.
  • A high degree of administrative and executive ability, especially in terms of problem solving and decision making.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications.
  • Excellent oral and written communications skills.
  • Knowledge of current federal, state and local laws and regulations affecting the management of golf course operations (including, but not limited to, employment, safety and environmental standards, laws and regulations).
  • Participation in continuing education opportunities such as seminars, workshops, correspondence courses, field days and trade shows.
  • May require current state certification or licensing as a pesticide applicator.

Overview

The assistant golf course superintendent reports directly to the golf course superintendent. Under the superintendent's supervision, the assistant superintendent directs and participates in the maintenance of the golf course areas, including but not limited to, tees, greens, fairways, and cart paths; supervises the maintenance and repair of motorized and other mechanical equipment; and does related work as required. The assistant superintendent may serve in the superintendent's capacity during his/her absence.

Functions

  • Assists in planning and supervising the maintenance of greens, tees and fairways; schedules work; and supervises the employees and the use of the equipment.
  • Instructs equipment operators on the operation and care of mowing and other equipment; supervises pesticide applications and/or operates and calibrates pesticide application equipment; and supervises and participates in the operation and maintenance of pumps, and in the maintenance of irrigation and drainage systems.
  • Strongly motivated to align and partner with superintendent to complete all tasks to the highest standards and achieve team goals.
  • Assists in personnel management and evaluation, employee safety and personnel discipline.
  • May modify the daily work schedule based on professional interpretation.

Employment standards

  • Working knowledge of the maintenance of golf course tees, fairways and greens; seeding and maintenance practices for golf course turf; planting, cultivating, pruning, and caring for plants, shrubs and trees; characteristics and proper use of various fertilizers and soil conditioners; herbicides and pest control methods and materials; drainage control methods; and irrigation systems, including wells, pumps and automatic controls.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications as specified by supervisor.
  • Ability to schedule and supervise maintenance work to achieve the most efficient utilization of workers and equipment; prepare clear and concise reports; and maintain effective employee and public relations.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license.
  • May require current state certification or licensing as a pesticide applicator.

Overview

The general manager is responsible for overall leadership and direction in all aspects of management of the golf facilities, including golf operations, course maintenance, customer service, sales and marketing, food and beverage, accounting/budgeting and human resources.

Responsibilities

  • Maintaining positive and productive relationships between the golf facility and its board of directors, golfers, guests, employees, community, government and industry.
  • Coordinating and administering the golf facility's policies as defined by its board of directors.
  • Developing operating policies and procedures and delegating goals to department managers.
  • Implementing and monitoring the budget, monitoring the quality of the golf facility's products and services, and ensuring maximum value of services to customers and/or members.
  • Securing and protecting the golf facility's assets, including facilities and equipment.
  • Guiding and assisting the board of directors in the development of the facility's long- and short-range objectives, goals, policies and programs.

Reporting

The general manager may report to:

  • Golf facility board president or officers
  • Golf course owner
  • Regional vice president or manager

Functions

  • Hires and supervises functions of the golf course superintendent.
  • Oversees supervision of all food and beverage department functions.
  • Directs upkeep and repair of all facility buildings. Assists and advises employer with long-range plans for improvements to the facility.
  • Monitors operation of golf program, including teaching, scheduling, tournaments, locker rooms, driving range, cart rentals, and pro shop facility.
  • Keeps golfers adequately informed of the activities of the golf facility and encourages their participation. Ensures that sound relationships are maintained between staff and customers and/or members, and that proper consideration is given to customer and/or member complaints and suggestions.
  • Defines, recommends and controls operating and financial objectives; works with department managers to develop short- and long-term plans and programs with supporting budget requests and financial estimates for each department and the golf facility as a whole. Presents proposals to the employer for approval.
  • Serves as liaison with civic organizations to maintain cordial community relations.
  • Develops, maintains and administers strategic long-range and annual organizational and business plans.
  • Coordinates, as appropriate, facility inter- and intra-committee activities.

Employment standards

  • Degree in golf course management, business administration, hotel and restaurant management, or related field.
  • Minimum three to five years of experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry, such as golf course management, hotel, resort, restaurant, retail or sports management.
  • Knowledge of accounting and financial management principles including uniform system of accounts, financial analysis, budgeting, cash flow forecasting, compensation and benefit administration, financing capital projects, audits, internal revenue service, computers, business office organization and long-range financial planning.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications.
  • Sales and marketing knowledge.
  • Human resource management skills in employee relations, management styles, organizational development, work/family balance, time management, stress management, labor issues and leadership vs. management.
  • Knowledge of building and facilities management in the areas of preventive maintenance, insurance and risk management, clubhouse/building remodeling and renovation, contractors, energy and water resource management, housekeeping, security, laundry and lodging operations.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Effective negotiation skills.
  • Excellent presentation skills.

Overview

The equipment manager reports to the golf course superintendent and/or the assistant golf course superintendent and oversees a comprehensive preventive maintenance program for the golf course assets. This program includes the diagnostics and repair of failing equipment, keeping records of parts and labor needed to maintain each piece of equipment, and placing orders for parts and supplies needed for equipment or service. The equipment manager properly communicates any needs or problems relating to the maintenance or repair of equipment to the superintendent and/or the assistant superintendent, and schedules and directs the work assignments of the assistant equipment manager. The equipment manager places safety as a top priority and is responsible for maintaining a clean service area and maintenance building.

Functions

  • Inspects, diagnoses and repairs mechanical defects/failures in various golf course maintenance equipment, including, diesel-, electric- and gasoline-powered automobiles, trucks, trenchers, sweepers, rollers, mowers, and other mechanical equipment used in utility work.
  • Instructs and/or trains golf course maintenance workers regarding preventive maintenance, and the proper cleaning of and safe operation of equipment.
  • Prioritizes equipment repair and maintenance work.
  • Maintains a preventive maintenance program within budget on all equipment, and purchases repair parts and replacement supplies.
  • Keeps a complete set of records for equipment and parts inventory purchases, equipment conditions, costs of repairs and preventive maintenance for all equipment.
  • Spot checks equipment for performance on the course, makes emergency repairs to equipment on the course, and services or supervises servicing of equipment prior to use.
  • Oversees the shop area maintenance.
  • Regulates employees' use of equipment in absence of superintendent and assistant superintendent, if needed, and performs other duties as directed by the superintendent.
  • Recommends equipment purchases and leases.

Employment standards

  • Working knowledge of light and heavy maintenance equipment and automotive apparatuses.
  • Skill in the use of a variety of equipment repair tools, and the making of various types of mechanical repair.
  • Working knowledge of the theory, care, and operation of internal combustion engines and mowing equipment.
  • Working knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of the profession.
  • Ability to move heavy objects.
  • Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions while repairing equipment.
  • Ability to diagnose mechanical troubles and determine appropriate maintenance work.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications as specified by supervisor.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and keep business records.
  • Knowledge of and/or ability to play the game of golf and understand how job performance affects the playing conditions of the golf course.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license, possibly a commercial driver's license (CDL).

Overview

Under the direction of the equipment manager and/or the assistant golf course superintendent, the assistant equipment manager assists and/or works independently of the equipment manager in the repairing and maintenance of various gasoline- and diesel-powered golf course maintenance equipment. The assistant equipment manager also assists in maintaining a clean service area and maintenance building, contributes to a preventative maintenance program, and places safety procedures as a top priority.

Functions

  • Communicates any needs or problems relating to maintenance or repair of equipment with the equipment manager and/or assistant superintendent.
  • Inspects, diagnoses, adjusts and repairs mechanical defects/failures in various pieces of golf course maintenance equipment on a regular basis.
  • Prioritizes equipment repair and maintenance work.
  • Sets up and modifies new equipment as needed.
  • Repairs and adjusts engines and cutting mechanisms on various heavy and light mowing equipment.
  • Keeps maintenance equipment fueled, oiled and inspected; and performs related tasks as required.

Employment standards

  • Working knowledge of the general operation of gasoline-, diesel- and electric-powered equipment; the proper methods of servicing golf course equipment; and the repair and adjustment of power mowing equipment.
  • Working knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of the profession.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications as specified by supervisor.
  • Ability to move heavy objects.
  • Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions while repairing equipment.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written direction.
  • Mechanical ability; ability to use common mechanical tools.
  • Ability to maintain cooperative working relationships with other employees and the public.
  • Maintenance of a clean and safe work environment.
  • Assistance in maintaining a clean and well-organized parts inventory room.
  • Adherence to the proper recycling and/or disposal of various oils, compounds and other fluids (antifreeze, oil filters, etc.).
  • Assistance in an effective, daily inspection of golf course maintenance equipment.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license, possibly a commercial driver's license (CDL).

Overview

The horticulturist, under the supervision of the golf course superintendent, works to beautify the golf course property through the selection, propagation, purchase, installation and maintenance of ornamental plants and trees. If present, the horticulturist manages the greenhouse and nursery to produce and install ornamental landscaping for the golf course and clubhouse properties.

Functions

  • Manages the greenhouse and ornamental nursery facilities.
  • Selects, propagates and grows plant materials (except trees and larger shrubs) for ornamental use on and around the golf course, clubhouse and other buildings.
  • Designs flower beds and cultivates shrubs and flowers.
  • Trims and prunes hedges and shrubbery.
  • Designs, installs and maintains low-pressure irrigation systems for landscaping.
  • Instructs groundskeepers in routine maintenance of ornamental plantings.
  • Applies pesticides and fertilizers to ornamental plantings.
  • Advises the superintendent of the need for tree trimming services.

Employment standards

  • Associate degree or extensive experience in horticulture or a closely related field.
  • Knowledge of the characteristics, growth habits and proper cultivation of a wide selection of flowering bulbs, annuals, biennials and perennial plant materials, including both herbaceous and woody plants.
  • Knowledge of the characteristics and proper use of various fertilizers, soil conditioners and pest control methods and materials.
  • May require current state certification or licensing as a pesticide applicator.
  • Experience in golf course maintenance and the game of golf.

Overview

The foreman works under the golf course superintendent and assistant golf course superintendent in a supervisory capacity. Responsibilities include delegating work assignments, overseeing job performance and inspecting course conditions.

Functions

  • Oversees the completion of work assignments by crew members and assists with field decisions regarding job procedures, work standards and machinery use.
  • Enforces safe working conditions with all job assignments and is responsible for instructing staff on proper equipment use and work methods.
  • Supervises special projects and labor crews.
  • Manages the building maintenance program and improvement projects.
  • Reports golf course conditions and all disciplinary problems to the golf course superintendent or assistant golf course superintendent.
  • Opens the maintenance shop and runs operations in the absence of the golf course superintendent and assistant golf course superintendent.

Employment standards

  • Knowledge of tools, methods, and materials used in grounds construction, landscaped area maintenance work and building maintenance and improvement.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications as specified by supervisor.
  • Ability to operate trucks and light motorized equipment.
  • Knowledge of agronomy, turfgrass science and the rules of golf.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Working knowledge of basic electricity and hydraulics related to an irrigation system, including automatic valves and controllers and various types of pumps and pumping systems.
  • Proven leadership capabilities.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license.

Overview

The irrigation specialist, under the supervision of the golf course superintendent or assistant golf course superintendent, is responsible for the programming, operation and maintenance of the golf course irrigation system(s). The irrigation specialist is required to report any irregularities in course turf quality to the superintendent or assistant superintendent.

Functions

  • Waters greens, tees and fairways.
  • Keeps rainfall, ET and irrigation records.
  • Operates irrigation heads in dry areas needing additional water.
  • Monitors, inspects and cleans pumps and pump house.
  • Repairs the irrigation system, pipes and irrigation heads as needed.
  • Completes requests for irrigation and course parts and supplies.
  • Occasionally supervises a small labor force for special projects, and performs other duties as directed by supervisor.

 

Employment standards

  • Working knowledge of basic electricity and hydraulics related to an irrigation system, including automatic valves and controllers, and working knowledge of various types of pumps and pumping systems.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications as specified by supervisor.
  • Understanding of agronomy, turfgrass science and the rules of golf.
  • Knowledge of tools, methods and materials used in grounds and landscape area maintenance work.
  • Ability to operate light motorized equipment.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license.

Overview

The chemical technician, under the supervision of the golf course superintendent or assistant superintendent, performs chemical applications on golf course properties; fertilizes tees, greens and fairways; and applies chemicals on areas of the golf course, including but not limited to, greens, tees and fairways.. The chemical technician is responsible for reading, understanding and keeping current with chemical labels and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). This position is also responsible for compiling preliminary reports of pesticide usage for the golf course superintendent.

Functions

  • Performs routine safety inspections on all spraying equipment.
  • Maintains chemical storage and mixing areas in compliance with county, state, and federal regulations, and is responsible for the safety and direction of chemical handlers and/or helpers.
  • Tracks chemical inventory.
  • Cleans, tests, properly calibrates and prepares all spray application equipment.

Training requirements

  • Must have completed training requirements as demanded by the state and federal governments, including those required by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.

Employment standards

  • Complete knowledge of chemical application equipment.
  • Proficiency in computer use, knowledge of Microsoft Office and other applications as specified by supervisor.
  • Current state certification or licensing as a pesticide applicator.
  • American Red Cross first-aid training certificate.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license.

Knowledge in the safe mechanical operation and calibration of the following types of equipment:

  • Mechanically pressurized spray equipment
  • Hand-operated spray equipment
  • Hand-operated rotary spreaders
  • Hand-operated drop spreaders
  • Utility tractors

Overview

The equipment operator, under supervision of the assistant superintendent or foreman, performs work involving the use of large equipment, including tractors, loaders, trenchers, backhoes, trucks and other maintenance equipment.

Functions

  • Operates various types of equipment, including but not limited to, walk behind mowers, triplex mowers, large area reel and rotary style mowers, blowers, sprayers, various heavy equipment and hand-held tools and equipment.
  • May operate smaller equipment as directed by his/her supervisor.
  • Ensures that the equipment cooling system is working at all times; refills fuel and oil daily; cleans equipment daily; and reports equipment problems or failures to Equipment Manager immediately.
  • Provides basic preventive maintenance on equipment as directed by the equipment manager or assistant superintendent, and returns equipment to the designated location at the maintenance facility.
  • Performs other duties as directed by his/her supervisor.

Employment standards

  • Knowledge of safe, efficient mechanical operation of tractors and other motorized equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license.
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