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Player Development Professional Jobs in Chicago, IL

POSITION SUMMARY The GOLFZON Social Player Development Associate is responsible for delivering high ... IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal candidate is a motivated golf professional who thrives in a dynamic, tech ...

POSITION SUMMARY The GOLFZON Social Player Development Associate is responsible for delivering high ... IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal candidate is a motivated golf professional who thrives in a dynamic, tech ...

... player development and enjoyment of the sport. * Help organize and promote leagues, round robins ... Interact professionally with members and guests, providing assistance with changes and ...

Tennis Professional

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

... player development and enjoyment of the sport. * Help organize and promote leagues, round robins ... Interact professionally with members and guests, providing assistance with changes and ...

... player development and enjoyment of the sport. * Help organize and promote leagues, round robins ... Interact professionally with members and guests, providing assistance with changes and ...

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Player Development Professional information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.1K

$76.8K

$120.5K

How much do player development professional jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for player development professional in Chicago, IL is $76,788.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $105,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Player Development Professional typically earns less than $4,000 weekly, as such roles often pay hourly or salary-based wages below that threshold. High-paying jobs that do not require a degree include certain sales positions, real estate brokers, commercial pilots, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, which may reach or exceed $4,000 per week with experience and commissions. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, or licenses rather than formal degrees.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles related to player development professionals are rare, with top executives, sports team owners, and certain specialized consultants earning $500,000 or more annually. Most player development roles in sports or gaming typically have lower salaries, but senior positions in management, coaching at professional levels, or roles involving significant experience and success can reach or exceed this income level.

What are Player Development Professionals?

Player Development Professionals are individuals who work with athletes to enhance their skills, performance, and personal growth both on and off the field. They may work for sports teams, academies, or organizations, focusing on areas such as technical training, mental conditioning, career guidance, and life skills. Their goal is to help athletes reach their full potential, manage transitions, and prepare for life after sports. They often collaborate with coaches, trainers, and support staff to create comprehensive development programs.

What is a player development job?

A player development professional works to improve athletes' skills, performance, and overall growth through coaching, training programs, and mentorship. They often analyze performance data, develop personalized training plans, and may hold certifications in sports coaching or related fields. The role typically requires strong communication skills and knowledge of sport-specific techniques.

How to become an SID?

To become a Sports Information Director (SID), candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in sports management, journalism, or a related field, along with experience in sports communication or media relations. Strong writing, communication skills, and knowledge of sports statistics and media tools are essential, and some roles may require industry certifications or internships to gain relevant experience.

What are the main challenges faced by a Player Development Professional, and how can they be addressed?

Player Development Professionals often encounter challenges such as building trust with players, managing diverse personalities, and balancing individual growth with team objectives. Successfully addressing these requires strong communication skills, empathy, and a deep understanding of both the sport and the athletes' needs. Establishing clear goals, maintaining open lines of communication, and collaborating closely with coaches and support staff are key ways to navigate these challenges and foster a positive development environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Player Development Professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Player Development Professional, you need a solid background in sports coaching, athlete assessment, and program management, often supported by a degree in sports science or a related field. Familiarity with performance tracking software, video analysis tools, and certifications like CPR or coaching licenses is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and effective communication help professionals build trust and maximize athlete potential. These skills and qualities are crucial for fostering player growth, ensuring safety, and driving team or individual success.

What is the difference between Player Development Professional vs Coach?

AspectPlayer Development ProfessionalCoach
CredentialsOften requires certifications in sports management, coaching, or related fieldsTypically requires coaching certifications or licenses specific to the sport
Work EnvironmentWorks in training facilities, sports academies, or team environments focusing on skill enhancementWorks directly with athletes or teams, often on the sidelines or in training sessions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by sports organizations, academies, and development programsCommonly used by teams, schools, and sports clubs

While both roles focus on athlete improvement, a Player Development Professional emphasizes long-term skill growth and career progression, often working behind the scenes or in training programs. A Coach typically provides direct instruction and motivation during practices and games. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Player Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Player Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Social Player Development Associate

Troon Golf

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$30K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 16 days ago


Troon rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 28 rated golf clubs


Job description

ABOUT GOLFZON SOCIAL
GOLFZON Social is a leading indoor golf entertainment brand redefining the way people play, socialize, and compete. Formed through a joint venture between GOLFZON America-the global leader in golf simulator technology-and Troon, the world's largest golf and golf-related hospitality management company, GOLFZON Social combines cutting-edge simulator technology with elevated food and beverage, hospitality, instruction, leagues, events, and private experiences. The brand delivers a premium, technology-driven social destination that appeals to golfers and non-golfers alike while creating scalable opportunities for growth across hospitality, entertainment, and player development.
POSITION SUMMARY
The GOLFZON Social Player Development Associate is responsible for delivering high-quality golf instruction and programming while driving revenue through lessons, leagues, memberships, and simulator usage. This role combines teaching, customer engagement, and business development to grow the GOLFZON Social community and enhance the overall player experience.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Instruction & Player Development
  • Lead adult and junior classes, clinics, and player development programs
  • Plan and execute junior summer camps focused on skill development and engagement
  • Provide private instruction using GOLFZON Social simulator technology and traditional coaching methods

Programming & Events
  • Organize and facilitate leagues, including scheduling, operations, and communication alongside Marketing team.
  • Assist in the planning and execution of corporate events, group outings, and social tournaments
  • Ensure all programs and events are delivered at a high level with exceptional customer service

Sales & Revenue Growth
  • Drive sales of:
    • Private lessons
    • Adult & junior classes/clinics
    • Summer camps
    • Membership packages
    • League registrations
    • Simulator rentals
  • Actively promote GOLFZON Social offerings to increase participation and retention
  • Build relationships with customers to encourage repeat business and long-term engagement

OPERATIONS & ADMINISTRATION
  • Manage league operations, including registration, scoring, and customer communication
  • Maintain an organized teaching and program schedule
  • Track personal sales and performance metrics
  • Support daily facility operations as needed

Qualifications
  • PGA Member or Associate preferred (or actively working toward PGA certification)
  • Experience teaching golf lessons to players of all ages and skill levels
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Sales-oriented mindset with ability to meet revenue goals
  • Passion for growing the game of golf and delivering exceptional customer experiences
  • Comfortable using technology-based coaching tools (GOLFZON or similar systems preferred)

Compensation
Potential Compensation Range: Between $30,940 - $100,000 annually
  • Base hourly pay
  • Commission opportunities, include:
    • Private lessons
    • Adult & junior classes/clinics
    • Summer camps
    • Membership sales
    • League registrations

Benefits
  • Health insurance
  • Education allowance (if applicable)
  • Access to golf simulator technology and player development tools
  • Free meals and unlimited practice privileges during shifts.

IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate is a motivated golf professional who thrives in a dynamic, tech-driven environment, enjoys teaching and community building, and is excited to contribute to a growing GOLFZON Social facility through both instruction and sales performance.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Troon employees say

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Troon Golf logo

About Troon Golf

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Troon started as one facility in 1990 and has since grown to become the world's largest professional club management company. We offer careers around the world at all levels of golf operations, opportunities for professional development, growth opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package. Our goal is to create extraordinary guest and member experiences through personalized service, consistency, and uncompromising attention to detail. For more information about the Troon Experience, please visit

Industry

Fitness and sports centers, hospitality services and traveler accommodation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Scottsdale, AZ, US