How to Become a Golf Superintendent

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Golf Superintendent

What does a Golf Superintendent do?

A Golf Superintendent is responsible for overall maintenance and care of the golf course, including turf/grass management, irrigation, and chemical applications (e.g., fertilizer, pesticides) to ensure quality playing conditions. Oversees continued development of golf course during golf season to improve playing conditions and maintenance of course during off-season. Being a Golf Superintendent manage purchasing, replenishment, and inventory of all materials, supplies, and equipment used to maintain golf course. Liaises with the Head Golf Professional on any issues related to golf course operations and maintenance. Additionally, Golf Superintendent typically requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a golf course general manager. The Golf Superintendent manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. To be a Golf Superintendent typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1 - 3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.

People's Opinions on Golf Superintendent responsibilities

Golf course superintendents are concerned with the environmental health of the golf course, the sporting needs of the players and the financial sustainability of the golf club or country club for which they work.

02/01/2020: Florence, AL

Golf course superintendents communicate the status of the grounds and maintenance resources to members of the club’s management, owners or board of directors, green chairs and committees, golfers, vendors, suppliers, golf professionals, golf course architects and others in the golf industry.

11/30/2019: Montgomery, AL

Golf course superintendents monitor the natural weather patterns, environment and other influences that affect the playing areas and landscapes with which golfers interact.

02/14/2020: Riverside, CA

“This certification program requires the highest set of competencies in golf course management through testing and practical application, and we are proud of the Association’s Class A members who have advanced to earn this highest level of professional recognition as a certified golf course superintendent,” said Rhett Evans, GCSAA chief executive officer.

11/29/2019: Fort Worth, TX

Many are truly visionary, and all have the entrepreneurial wherewithal to finance these risky enterprises we call golf clubs.

02/16/2020: Saint Louis, MO
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Golf Superintendent

Best tips for those who want to become a Golf Superintendent

Here are some tips to become a Golf Superintendent.

People's Opinions on best tips

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12/14/2019: Durham, NC

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02/23/2020: Bridgeport, CT

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01/25/2020: Orlando, FL

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01/22/2020: Bellingham, WA

Top 12 Stress Based Interview Questions As Golf Course Superintendent.

12/10/2019: Lansing, MI
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Golf Superintendent

Best colleges and universities for Golf Superintendent

  • Calvin University
  • Colby-Sawyer College
  • Augustana University
  • University of South Carolina--Upstate
  • New York University
  • CUNY--Queens College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Golf Superintendent

Is being a Golf Superintendent Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) plans to bestow one of its highest honors on Paul McGinnis, CGCS (Certified Golf Course Superintendent) at a ceremony February 9 at the association’s annual Golf Industry Show in San Diego.

02/09/2020: Saint Paul, MN

A good golf course superintendent strives to make sure every green offers the same putting speed, and every bunker has the same level of sand.

02/25/2020: Austin, TX

A good course superintendent will have all 18 greens running at the same speed, the same amount of sand in all of the bunkers, all fairways with the same firmness, and a uniform cutting height for the rough.

02/27/2020: Santa Rosa, CA

It's just part of the job for Brunswick High School graduate Matt Morton, superintendent of The Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, Calif.

12/06/2019: Mobile, AL

Billy Casper Golf oversees all aspects of the Fellows Creek operation, including golf course and property maintenance, sales, marketing and public relations, staffing and training, merchandising, restaurant and banquet activities, special events and financial management.

02/05/2020: Hopkinsville, KY
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Golf Superintendent

What skills do you need to be a Golf Superintendent?

Management is no easy task, and as such, the skill requirements for these types of roles vary greatly.  Chief skills for this role are: Inventory Management, Partner Relationship Management, Golf Course Maintenance, Maintenance Equipment.  Expertise in these areas will help you land this, or a similar role.

People's Opinions on Golf Superintendent skills

Must be a CGSA Member in good standing in either the Golf Superintendent, Golf Course Management or Assistant Superintendent categories when you submit your application.

01/19/2020: Springfield, MA

Moore feels his background and skills in programming, teaching, marketing, and budgeting will help accelerate the DeKalb Park District golf program.

01/04/2020: Reading, PA

Moore’s experience in golf course management from golf courses in Beloit, Rockford, and Aurora will help him recapture the interest in golf in the DeKalb area.

12/04/2019: Pierre, SD

Local DeKalb businessman Jim Mason will be opening a new indoor golf experience on Sycamore Road in DeKalb.

12/10/2019: Las Cruces, NM

Working knowledge of maintenance of golf course tees, greens, fairways, bunkers, cart paths, and irrigation system.

02/07/2020: Charlotte, NC
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Step 6: View average salary for Golf Superintendent

How much does a Golf Superintendent make?

The average salary range for a Golf Superintendent is from $65,958 to $94,744. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Golf Superintendent
$65,958 to $94,744

Step 7: Find relevant Golf Superintendent jobs, and apply.

Looking for Golf Superintendent jobs?

Here are some Golf Superintendent jobs in the United States.

Search Golf Superintendent Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Golf Superintendent