Specialist Golf Course Maintenance

Golf Course Landscape SpecialistThe Golf Course Landscape Specialist is responsible for performing a variety of duties related to the proper maintenance of the grounds of the golf course with a focus on ensuring that the landscaping, trees, and other flora remain healthy and aesthetically pleasing.

The Golf Course Landscape Specialist acts as the technical subject matter expert for the department in landscaping and arboriculture (proper plant care, species identification, etc.).The Golf Course Landscape Specialist reports to the Golf Course Superintendent.

This role does not supervise any other employees but may occasionally direct the work of part-time or seasonal employees.Essential FunctionsMaintain the turf and lawn areas immediately surrounding the clubhouse, including mowing, trimming, and watering.Ensure flower beds, sponsorship areas, and other high-visibility areas receive a high level of care so that they are healthy and aesthetically pleasing at all times.Provide chemical or mechanical control of weeds including invasive species as appropriate.Install landscapes including planting trees, shrubs, ground covers, annuals and bulbs; and hardscapes including all prep work.Safely and efficiently execute landscaping and enhancement projects assigned by supervisor or other Golf Course management staff.Provide arboricultural maintenance to all trees on the golf course, with a focus on caring for and monitoring newly planted trees.Help maintain, clean, and service landscaping and mowing equipment to ensure safe and proper operation.Participate in the operation and maintenance of irrigation and drainage systems.Assist the greenkeeping crew with general maintenance duties around the golf course during peak times, special events, and staffing shortages.Perform all tasks in compliance with the Forest Preserves' Safety Manual and the department training manual.Assist patrons with questions or concerns regarding the golf course or other Forest Preserves facilities.Explain and enforce rules and regulations and notify the appropriate authority regarding safety issues.Perform other duties as assigned.RequirementsMinimum of 1 year of professional experience in landscaping, arboriculture, or similar positions.Associate's degree (or equivalent formal education) in a related field (arboriculture, horticulture, forestry, etc.) or equivalent work experience resulting in knowledge and skills one would gain from such a degree.Experience with or ability to learn the use and maintenance of tools of the trade, both powered and non-powered is required.Current Illinois Pesticide Applicator License or the ability to obtain within 6 months of employment.AED/CPR and First Aid certification or the ability to obtain within 12 months of employment.Must be at least 18 years of age with a valid driver's license at the time of hiring.Knowledge of and interest in the game of golf is preferred.Skills and AbilitiesAbility to understand and follow both verbal and written directions.Good communication skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.Strong customer service skills and the ability to successfully interact with people of all backgrounds and abilities.Knowledge of, or ability to learn, the practices and equipment associated with golf course operations and maintenance.Strong ornamental and native plant identification preferred.Mechanical ability to perform maintenance and light repair work on work equipment.Ability to maintain composure and self-control in difficult situations.Ability to work independently without direct supervision, to exercise judgment in the performance of duties, and to identify or solve problems as they arise.Fluent and able to communicate in English—bilingual skills a plus.Work is primarily performed outdoors under various weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, or ice.

Duties will be performed in close proximity to the general public and the employee may have frequent interactions with patrons. While performing the duties of this position, the employee may be exposed to hazardous flora and fauna (e.g. poison ivy, wild parsnip, biting/stinging insects, ticks) and chemicals (e.g. cleaning supplies, herbicides/pesticides, and gasoline/oil).

The employee may also be exposed to machinery with moving mechanical parts and high noise levels.Normal duties may include stooping, twisting, climbing, balancing, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. Prolonged standing or walking, often on unpaved/uneven terrain, will be frequent.

The employee may regularly handle, grasp, or feel objects; reach, push, or pull to reposition items; and may regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds or may occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds using assistive devices or with assistance from other employees. Ability to talk and hear or otherwise effectively communicate with staff and patrons is required.

Visual acuity necessary for this position includes close vision, distance vision, pe