Golf Course Grounds Crew Member

Job Description

Job Description

Typical Work Day A Groundskeeper is required to be able to complete a large variety of tasks throughout the day. Groundskeeper tasks can be generally categorized as manual labor and are related to landscaping. Landscape maintenance tasks include: operating different types of lawn mowers, raking of debris, use of string trimmers, operation of powered debris blowers, use of chainsaw, and operation of other motorized equipment.

Groundskeepers must have a valid driver’s license and be able to drive various types of golf carts and utility vehicles in order to complete the above tasks. In addition, Groundskeepers are often called upon to complete or assist in all tasks on the course including: special projects, irrigation repair, fertilizer and chemical applications, and other general maintenance tasks. Groundskeepers primarily work under the supervision of the Golf Course Superintendent.  Duties to include but not limited to the following:

1. Mowing Tee Boxes and Approaches- Ability to operate triplex mowers. Ability to sit for extended periods of time. Ability to occasionally squat or bend in order to empty grass catcher baskets and to move tee markers or other debris from the mowing area.

2. Mowing Fairways – Ability to operate fairway mowers. Ability to sit for extended periods of time. Ability to occasionally squat or bend in order to move cart directional signs or debris from mowing area. Minimal lifting, bending, or twisting required. 

3. Mowing Primary Roughs- Ability to operate riding mowers. Ability to sit for extended periods of time. Ability to occasionally squat or bend in order to move cart directional signs or debris from mowing area. Minimal lifting, bending, or twisting required.

4. Mowing Secondary Roughs- Ability operate zero turn mower or other single deck mower. Zero turn mowers require constant light pulling and pushing with the arms and shoulders in order to operate equipment. Ability to sit for extended periods of time. Ability to occasionally squat or bend in order to move cart directional signs or debris from mowing area.

5. Operation of Utility Tractors- Equipment Operators may operate various size utility tractors. Must have ability to reach all levers and be highly trained in the ability to operate the equipment. Tractors are often equipped with front end loaders, back hoes, and a large variety of attachments. Operator must be physically able to mount and dismount tractor, and be able to readily access all controls. 

6. Use of string trimmer- Ability to stand for majority of shift. Ability to operate commercial string trimmer that weighs approximately 12lbs. Frequent light lifting, twisting, and pulling is required to complete this task.

7. Picking of debris or trash – Light lifting and raking required. Most pieces of debris or trash weigh less than 5lbs. Large trash receptacles may weigh up to 50lbs at times. Frequent bending or squatting required. 

8. Changing Hole Locations- Ability to lift, pull, twist, and squat repeatedly. Lifting of 20lbs from ground required. 

9. Tree Work – Ability to operate various sizes of chainsaws and/or assist with removal of tree debris. Lifting of up to 50lbs unassisted, and up to 80lbs assisted required. Also requires raking and shoveling of debris.

10. Irrigation Repair – All employees may be called upon to assist the Irrigation Technician with repairs. Irrigation repair requires the ability to bend, squat, lift, pull, and push repeatedly. Many times this task requires shoveling of dirt or rock, and removal of materials.

11. Ice and Water – Ability to lift full 10 gallon water coolers containing ice and water. Coolers are placed in specific locations on the course for use by members, guests, and employees. Must follow proper guidelines for maintaining cleanliness of drinking water. Frequent bending and squatting. Lifting of 50lbs unassisted from floor.  

12. Clubhouse Lawns – Operation of push mowers, string trimmers, blowers, and hand tools required to maintain lawns and ornamental beds. Frequent standing, walking, and bending.

13. Leaf Cleanup – Raking, blowing, shoveling, and removal of grass clippings, leaves, and other debris. Frequent standing, walking, bending, pulling, and pushing.

Note: The tasks listed above are common daily tasks required by golf course employees. Not all employees are trained or required to complete every task.

In addition, some tasks are seasonal in nature. Employees may be required to complete tasks not listed above.