Assistant Golf Course Superintendent Jobs in California

The Assistant Golf Course Superintendent is a key member of the golf course maintenance team, reporting directly to the golf course superintendent. Under the superintendent’s supervision, the assistant directs and participates in the maintenance of the golf course, including tees, greens, fairways, rough, bunkers, and cart paths, while supporting the superintendent in achieving maximum playability and profitability. The Assistant Superintendent is expected to develop the skills and expertise necessary to become a golf course superintendent, demonstrating strong potential for promotion through hands-on experience, leadership, and professional growth. The assistant may serve in the superintendent’s capacity during their absence.

• Minimum of a 2-year degree or certificate in Turfgrass Science or a related agronomy field; a 4-year degree is preferred but not required.
• 1-3 years of turfgrass management experience, with a clear trajectory toward becoming a golf course superintendent.
• Working knowledge of golf course maintenance, including tees, fairways, greens, seeding practices, plant care, fertilizers, herbicides, pest control, drainage methods, and irrigation systems.
• Basic knowledge of agronomy and turfgrass management practices, with a commitment to advancing expertise.
• Understanding of golf facility construction principles and the rules and strategies of the game of golf.
• Proficiency in computer use, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and other applications as specified by the superintendent.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written, to maintain effective employee and public relations.
• Ability to schedule and supervise maintenance work to achieve efficient utilization of workers and equipment.
• Basic knowledge of budgeting and expense management.
• Possess or be able to obtain a state-required pesticide applicator license within 90 days of employment.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team, with supervisory experience or demonstrated potential.
• Positive attitude, strong organizational skills, and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Understanding of internal controls and ability to maintain confidentiality of information.
• Participation in continuing education opportunities such as seminars, workshops, correspondence courses, field days, and trade shows to prepare for future superintendent roles.
• GCSAA membership or apprentice status is preferred but not required.

• Assists in planning and supervising the maintenance of greens, tees, fairways, rough, bunkers, and cart paths to ensure high-quality playing conditions.
• Directs and participates in the operation and maintenance of irrigation and drainage systems, including pumps and automatic controls.

• Supervises pesticide, fertilizer, and seed applications, ensuring proper documentation and safe handling/storage.
• Instructs and trains staff on the operation and care of mowing and other maintenance equipment.
• Scouts the golf course regularly for insect, weed, and disease problems, diagnosing issues and recommending corrective actions in consultation with the superintendent.
• Supports the superintendent in developing short- and long-term agronomic strategies to maintain healthy turf and landscapes.
• Actively aligns with the superintendent to achieve team goals and maintain maintenance standards.

The assistant golf course superintendent supports the management and maintenance of golf course properties, which may include:

• The golf course(s), including greens, tees, fairways, rough, bunkers, and cart paths.
• Clubhouse grounds, landscaping, and other recreational facilities (e.g., tennis courts, swimming pools) as assigned.
• Maintenance equipment, including monitoring inventory and assisting with preventative maintenance schedules.
• Irrigation and drainage systems, including wells, pumps, and automatic controls.
• Assisting in construction, renovation, or reconstruction projects, whether performed by maintenance staff or outside contractors.
• Supporting inventory control and equipment maintenance programs under the superintendent’s guidance.
• Assists in preparing weekly schedules for maintenance staff, including foremen, irrigation technicians, and other employees.
• Supervises and trains staff, providing input on performance evaluations, employee development, and discipline in collaboration with the superintendent.
• Modifies daily work schedules based on professional interpretation and superintendent approval.
• Assists in managing the maintenance budget, monitoring expenditures, and supporting cost control measures.
• Keeps accurate records of maintenance procedures, pesticide applications, and other operational data as directed.
• Communicates regularly with the superintendent and other departments to align on goals, plans, and member/customer feedback.
• Assists in assessing golf course damage after storm events and reports findings to the superintendent.
• Promotes a positive relationship with team members across all departments and divisions.
• Provides suggestions for improvements to procedures, equipment, and maintenance practices.
• Attends seminars, workshops, and other continuing education opportunities to build skills toward becoming a superintendent.
• Assists the mechanic with equipment repairs as needed.
• Actively demonstrates, encourages, trains, and models safety rules and guidelines in accordance with company, OSHA, EPA, DNR, and other state and federal law requirements.
• Ensures proper use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe equipment operation by all team members.
• Investigates loss-producing incidents and reviews prevention recommendations with employees under the superintendent’s guidance.
• Participates in safety meetings, providing and documenting safety training and offering improvement suggestions.
• Reports safety or hazard concerns and work-related injuries to the superintendent and management.
• Takes personal responsibility for safety every day.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Walking, driving, lifting 50 lbs., and performing repetitive motion.
• Outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Standing, lifting, bending, kneeling, walking for extended periods.
• Exposure to lawn equipment, hand tools, and motorized carts.
• Exposure to noise, dust, grease, uneven terrain, and moving equipment.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Outdoors in heat and humidity, with exposure to lawn maintenance equipment, chemicals, and computers for recordkeeping and scheduling.

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT & SCHEDULING

Golf maintenance operates 7 days/week. Early mornings and weekend work is required as part of a rotating crew schedule.