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Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent Jobs in Chicago, IL

The employee is under the direct supervision of the maintenance supervisor or Superintendent of Golf. QUALIFICATIONS: Including, but not limited to, some knowledge of golf course grounds and facility ...

Golf Course Laborer

Oak Lawn, IL

$14.25 - $17/hr

The employee is under the direct supervision of the maintenance supervisor or Superintendent of Golf. QUALIFICATIONS: Including, but not limited to, some knowledge of golf course grounds and facility ...

Golf Course Laborer

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

The employee is under the direct supervision of the maintenance supervisor or Superintendent of Golf. QUALIFICATIONS: Including, but not limited to, some knowledge of golf course grounds and facility ...

Woodruff Golf Mechanic

Joliet, IL · On-site

$30.43 - $36.31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Director of Horticulture and Golf Grounds and Golf Grounds Superintendent Date: July 2026 Summary Under the supervision of the Director of Horticulture and Golf Grounds or the Golf Course ...

Greenskeeper III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.40 - $19/hr

Assure proper disposal of all garbage found on the golf course * Mows greens, aprons, fairways, rough, tees, and other areas * Perform other duties as assigned by the course superintendent Working ...

Assure proper disposal of all garbage found on the golf course * Mows greens, aprons, fairways, rough, tees, and other areas * Perform other duties as assigned by the course superintendent Working ...

Golf Maintenance III

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

... Superintendent, or Golf Specialist, the Golf Maintenance III position is responsible for routine maintenance work, daily set up, and the mowing involved in the care and upkeep of the golf course and ...

Golf Maintenance II

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

... Superintendent, or Golf Specialist, the Golf Maintenance II position is responsible for routine maintenance work and mowing involved in the care and upkeep of the golf course and clubhouse grounds.

Groundskeeper

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

The Potential Candidate Join our team as a groundskeeper in this entry-level position where ... Golf Course Superintendents. Under the supervision of the Assistant Superintendents, perform ...

Mechanic

Riverdale, IL · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

... of the golf course. The Mechanic will perform major and minor mechanical repairs on a variety of diesel and gasoline powered equipment under the general direction of the Superintendent. Pay Range ...

Work experience as a Busser, Food Runner or other entry-level role in a restaurant is a plus ... The 18-hole par 72 golf course that challenges golfers of all levels with its rolling terrain and ...

Work experience as a Busser,Food Runneror other entry-level role in a restaurant is a plus ... The 18-hole par 72 golf course that challenges golfers of all levels with its rolling terrain and ...

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Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33K

$69.7K

$107.7K

How much do entry level golf course superintendent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level golf course superintendent in Chicago, IL is $69,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level golf course superintendent do?

An Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for assisting in the management and maintenance of a golf course's turf, landscaping, and overall grounds. They work under the supervision of a head superintendent to ensure the course is in top playing condition, which involves tasks like mowing, fertilizing, irrigating, and pest control. Additionally, they may help manage maintenance staff and maintain equipment. This role is ideal for individuals interested in agronomy, turf management, and outdoor work.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level golf course superintendents, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level Golf Course Superintendents often face challenges such as managing turfgrass health, adapting to changing weather conditions, and coordinating with maintenance staff. Balancing daily maintenance tasks while responding to unexpected issues like pest outbreaks or equipment breakdowns requires strong organizational skills. New superintendents can address these challenges by developing a solid maintenance schedule, staying current with industry best practices, and fostering open communication with their team and club management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level golf course superintendent, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent, you need a background in turfgrass management, landscaping, and basic agronomy, often supported by a degree or certificate in turf management or a related field. Familiarity with irrigation systems, turf maintenance equipment, and pesticide application certifications are typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you lead grounds crews and respond to changing course conditions. These abilities ensure optimal course playability, safety, and aesthetics, which are critical to guest satisfaction and facility reputation.

What is the difference between Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent vs Assistant Golf Course Superintendent?

AspectEntry Level Golf Course SuperintendentAssistant Golf Course Superintendent
CertificationsGreen industry certifications, possibly some turf management coursesSimilar certifications, often required or preferred
Work EnvironmentOn-course management, turf care, maintenance planningSupports the superintendent, assists with daily operations
ResponsibilitiesImplementing turf management plans, supervising staff, maintaining course conditionsAssisting with course maintenance, learning management tasks, supporting staff

While both roles involve turf management and require relevant certifications, the Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for overseeing course conditions and staff, whereas the Assistant Golf Course Superintendent supports these tasks and gains experience for future advancement.

Are entry level golf course superintendents in demand?

Entry level golf course superintendents are in moderate demand, especially in regions with active golf courses and ongoing maintenance needs. The role often requires knowledge of turf management, equipment operation, and environmental regulations, with opportunities increasing as golf course maintenance continues to evolve. Job availability can vary based on location and the health of the golf industry.

How much can you make as an entry level golf course superintendent?

Entry-level golf course superintendents typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on the location, size of the course, and level of experience. Starting salaries may be lower, but with certification in turf management and experience, earnings can increase over time.

How to get a job as an entry level golf course superintendent?

To become an entry-level golf course superintendent, candidates typically need a degree in turf management, agronomy, or a related field, along with experience working on golf courses such as as an assistant or crew member. Certifications like the Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) can enhance prospects, and strong knowledge of turfgrass management, irrigation systems, and maintenance equipment is essential. Entry-level positions often require good communication skills, physical stamina, and a willingness to learn industry-specific tools and practices.

Is it hard to become an entry level golf course superintendent?

Becoming an entry-level golf course superintendent typically requires a relevant degree in turf management or agronomy, along with practical experience such as internships or assistant roles. The position involves learning about turf care, irrigation systems, and maintenance schedules, and may require certification in pesticide application or turf management. While it can be competitive, gaining hands-on experience and relevant education can help ease the entry process.

What are the most commonly searched types of Golf Course Superintendent jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Golf Course Superintendent jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Golf Course Superintendent job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,654 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Assistant Golf Superintendent

Naperville Park District

Naperville, IL • On-site

$22.11 - $27.63/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Naperville Park District rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Overview:

Under the direct supervision of the Superintendent of Golf Grounds, the Assistant Golf Superintendent performs the daily maintenance of all aspects of the golf facility, supervises the activities of the part time maintenance staff, and collaborates with the Superintendent of Golf Grounds in the daily operation of the golf course.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Collaborate with the Superintendent of Golf Grounds in planning, scheduling, and supervising the maintenance of the golf course to industry standards.
  2. Coordinate and provide support of daily golf course presentation including mowing of turf areas, raking of bunkers, course set up, and other related tasks as needed to provide patrons with quality course conditions.
  3. Supervise and participate in the operation and maintenance of the golf course irrigation and drainage systems.
  4. Inspect golf facilities and property for safety and cleanliness. Evaluate, determine, and prioritize necessary repairs and maintenance.
  5. Operate and maintain equipment. Clean and organize work and storage areas.
  6. Perform administrative duties including inventory, budget, reporting, and daily record keeping.
  7. Apply pesticides for control of weeds, insects, and fungal disease problems as needed.
  8. Manage work of others, including planning, assigning, scheduling, and reviewing work, ensuring quality standards. Assists with the hiring, disciplining, training, developing, and reviewing performance for part time staff.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Under the supervision of the Vehicle & Equipment Technician, perform minor maintenance and repair of golf equipment and carts.
  • Assist in the general maintenance and/or repairs of golf course equipment as assigned by the Director of Golf.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Working knowledge of generally accepted maintenance practices for golf course playing surfaces. This includes the planting, cultivation, pruning, and general care of a variety of plant materials, the characteristics and proper use of various fertilizers, plant protectants, herbicides, and other pest control methods and materials, and drainage control methods for irrigation systems such as wells, pumps, and automated controls.
  • Basic understanding of the game of golf and how it relates to the set up and playing conditions of the golf course.
  • Ability to schedule and supervise maintenance activities to achieve the most efficient and effective utilization of labor and equipment.
  • Ability to maintain effective employee and public relations.
  • Ability to operate equipment including but not limited to tractors, trucks, and mowing equipment.
  • Basic understanding and ability to use Microsoft platform.
  • Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred.

Education and Experience:

  • Certificate or Associate's degree in Turf Management or related field.
  • Minimum one (1) year of experience in turf and/or green industry related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Possession, or the ability to obtain, State of Illinois pesticide operator or applicators license within six (6) months of hire.

Special Considerations:

  • Subject to both office and outside environmental conditions.
  • Exposure to pesticides, chemicals, dust, exhaust fumes, dirt, noise, insect bites, and loud noises.
  • Ability to lift, carry, and/or move objects weighing ≤ 50 lbs on a weekly basis. Lifting assistance is required when lifting > 50 lbs.
  • Prolonged lifting, stooping, bending, twisting, standing, and climbing.
  • Manual dexterity and strength to operate power-operated equipment and machines.
  • Subject to modified/flexible work schedules.
  • Regular onsite attendance is an essential function of this position.
  • Ability to travel to and work at all Naperville Park District facilities.

Benefits

https://npd.sharefile.com/public/share/web-s751fcade1b1746168ccfaafaf8bf98bd

Hiring Rate: $22.11/hr - $27.63/hr 

To be considered for this position, interested individuals must complete the online application accessible at
www.napervilleparks.org/employment. Materials submitted through mail, email, or fax will not be considered


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