Golf Course Superintendent

About the job

The Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for the overall maintenance, conditioning, and presentation of one 18-hole championship golf course at Wild Dunes Resort. This position leads all daily golf course maintenance operations to ensure exceptional playing conditions, environmental stewardship, safety compliance, and efficient use of resources. The Superintendent works closely with the Director of Agronomy to execute agronomic programs, capital improvement projects, and strategic initiatives that support the Resort's golf operations and guest experience.

Essential Functions

Golf Course Maintenance & Agronomy

• Direct and oversee all maintenance activities for the assigned 18-hole golf course, including greens, tees, fairways, roughs, bunkers, lakes, landscaping, and practice facilities.
• Implement agronomic programs including fertilization, irrigation, pest management, aerification, topdressing, overseeding, and cultural practices.
• Monitor turfgrass health and course conditions, making recommendations to the Director of Agronomy regarding course improvements and maintenance strategies.
• Ensure golf course conditions consistently meet or exceed Wild Dunes Resort standards.
• Develop and execute daily, weekly, and seasonal maintenance schedules.
• Assist with preparation and recovery plans for tournaments, member events, and special functions.

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise, train, coach, and develop golf course maintenance team members.
• Conduct daily shift meetings and communicate maintenance priorities.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Assist in recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding maintenance staff.
• Manage employee performance through coaching, evaluations, and corrective action when necessary.

Irrigation & Equipment Oversight

• Monitor and manage irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use and optimal turf conditions.
• Coordinate irrigation repairs and preventative maintenance.
• Partner with Equipment Managers and maintenance staff to ensure equipment is properly maintained, safe, and operational.
• Assist in planning equipment replacement schedules and capital needs.

Financial Management

• Assist the Director of Agronomy with annual budget development and expense management.
• Monitor labor, chemical, fertilizer, seed, fuel, and equipment costs.
• Maintain accurate inventory controls and purchasing procedures.
• Ensure operating expenses remain within approved budget parameters.

Environmental & Safety Compliance

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations.
• Maintain proper pesticide application records and certification requirements.
• Support sustainability and environmental stewardship initiatives.
• Ensure all team members adhere to OSHA standards and Resort safety policies.
• Conduct regular safety training and inspections.

Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain effective communication with Golf Operations, Resort Leadership, and the Director of Agronomy.
• Provide updates regarding course conditions, project progress, and maintenance schedules.
• Collaborate with other departments to support resort-wide initiatives and special events.
• Interact professionally with members, guests, and vendors when necessary.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Minimum 3-5 years of golf course management experience, including supervisory responsibility.
• Knowledge of warm-season turfgrass management and golf course maintenance practices.
• South Carolina Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain within established timeframe.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced resort environment.
• Proficiency with irrigation management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Preferred

• Experience maintaining high-end resort, private club, or championship golf facilities.
• Familiarity with environmental compliance programs and water conservation initiatives.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to walk, stand, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to work early mornings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as operational needs require.
• Ability to safely operate golf course maintenance equipment and vehicles.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and Team Development
• Agronomic Expertise
• Budget and Resource Management
• Problem Solving and Decision Making
• Attention to Detail
• Environmental Stewardship
• Communication and Collaboration
• Guest Service Excellence

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.