Golf Course Superintendent

Superintendent Role and Responsibilities

The superintendent is responsible for planning, managing, and executing all aspects of golf course maintenance. They work to ensure playing surfaces are safe, playable, and aesthetically pleasing while managing people, equipment, budgets, and regulatory compliance.

This role reports to the General Manager, and Golf Operations Manager. They also work closely with the Head Golf Professional and clubhouse management to coordinate general play, as well as events. This role requires a team player attitude, that can work well with other people, and can be pleasant and professional.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

TURF AND COURSE MANAGEMENT

- Plan, supervise, and execute daily and seasonal maintenance of tees, fairways, greens, roughs, and other playing areas.

- Oversee turfgrass health, including mowing, aeration, fertilization, irrigation, pest, disease, and weed control.

- Manage irrigation systems and water usage to keep turf healthy with environmental stewardship.

- Plan and implement long-term agronomic programs and cultural practices.

LEADERSHIP AND STAFF MANAGEMENT

- Hire, train, schedule, and supervise maintenance staff and seasonal workers.

- Lead and motivate the team to achieve high standards in turf care and safety.

- Ensure safe work practices and compliance with occupational health and safety standards.

FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT

- Prepare and manage annual operating and capital budgets for maintenance programs and equipment.

- Purchase and manage equipment, supplies, and materials.

- Maintain accurate records (weather data, applications, inventories, financial reports).

EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

- Supervise maintenance and repairs of all grounds equipment.

- Manage machinery, workshops, and tools to ensure efficient operations.

PLANNING AND COLLABORATION

- Participate in long-range planning for course improvements and capital projects.

- Work collaboratively with club leadership on operational decisions and member expectations.

- Communicate course conditions, upcoming work, and maintenance issues to members and management.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE/LICENSING

- Ensure compliance with environmental, pesticide applicator, and safety regulations.

- Maintain proper documentation for chemical applications, safety training, and regulatory requirements.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & QUALIFICATIONS

- Post-secondary education in turfgrass management, horticulture, agronomy, or related field.

- Significant experience in golf course maintenance (often 3–5+ years), in a management role.

- Pesticide and fertilizer applicator certification and knowledge of WHMIS/OHS.

- Strong leadership, communication, budgeting, and planning skills.

- GCSAA Membership or Equivalent professional affiliation

- Experience in managing a golf course in a private non-equity membership environment

- Post-secondary education in turfgrass management, horticulture, agronomy, or related field.

- Significant experience in golf course maintenance (often 3–5+ years), in a management role.

- Pesticide and fertilizer applicator certification and knowledge of WHMIS/OHS.

- Strong leadership, communication, budgeting, and planning skills.

- GCSAA Membership or Equivalent professional affiliation

- Experience in managing a golf course in a private non-equity membership environment