Golf Course Superintendent

Golf Course Superintendent

Cascade Hills Country Club is seeking a motivated and team-oriented Golf Course Superintendent to play an integral role in the daily operation of its 27-hole golf course. Reporting directly to the Director of Agronomy, this individual will provide leadership to the grounds team, help maintain exceptional playing conditions, and contribute to the overall success of the operation. This is an opportunity for an individual who is passionate about the turfgrass industry, takes initiative, communicates effectively, and is interested in developing both personally and professionally. The successful candidate will be expected to lead by example, build relationships with the existing staff, and help foster a positive and accountable team environment.

CLUB HIGHLIGHTS

• 2025 Maintenance Budget: $1.9 million
• Total Annual Rounds: Approximately 20,000–22,000
• Total Staff: 10 full-time employees and approximately 25–30 seasonal employees
• Typical Work Schedule:
• In Season: Approximately 50–60 hours per week. Rotating weekend schedule
• Off-season schedule is Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM–2:30 PM, with rotating snow removal responsibilities every three to four weeks.
• Turf Types:
• East/West Course: greens, tees, and fairways - Poa annua/bentgrass. Rough - mixed varieties
• Park Course: greens, tees, and fairways - bentgrass. Rough - bluegrass/fine fescue
• Irrigation System: Toro. Recent improvements in 2025 included new 2-wire, HDPE lateral lines, valves, main line additions and Toro rotors
• Equipment: John Deere leased equipment for daily operations. Specialty equipment, including aerifiers, topdressers, seeders, blowers, and tractors, are owned by the Club.
• Upcoming Events: 2027 Michigan Women's Amateur.

SUCCESS TRAITS OF INDIVIDUAL

• Leadership: Ability to lead by example, motivate employees, and establish accountability throughout the department.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with staff, management, and other Club departments.
• Initiative: A self-starter who recognizes opportunities, anticipates needs, and takes ownership of responsibilities.
• Positive Attitude: Approaches challenges with a positive mindset and contributes to a productive team environment.
• Commitment to the Industry: Demonstrates a genuine passion for golf course maintenance and a desire to build a long-term career in the industry.
• Adaptability: Quick learner who is willing to take on new responsibilities and develop a thorough understanding of the operation.
• Accountability: Ability to hold themselves, the Director of Agronomy, and other team members accountable while maintaining a respectful and collaborative environment.
• Professional Growth: Demonstrates an interest in establishing and working toward meaningful personal and professional goals.

INITIAL PRIORITIES OF POSITION

• Develop a rapport with the existing staff and earn their trust. This will be the top priority upon joining the operation.
• Gain a thorough understanding of the golf course, maintenance practices, and daily operation.
• Document initial observations and impressions of the operation to discuss with the Director of Agronomy. This will be an ongoing process throughout the first year as the candidate experiences each season on the property.
• Become familiar with the membership's priorities and expectations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND APTITUDE

• Provide leadership and direction for the daily operation of the golf course maintenance department, including staff assignments, establishing priorities, and anticipating operational needs.
• Maintain regular communication with the Director of Agronomy, Equipment Technician, and Assistant Superintendents.
• Monitor staff performance, provide guidance, and ensure maintenance practices are completed according to established standards.
• Assist with hiring, scheduling, training, coaching, and holding employees accountable for their responsibilities.
• Coordinate and perform fertilizer and plant protectant applications in accordance with applicable state and federal regulations.
• Monitor turf health and identify potential agronomic issues, implementing appropriate corrective measures.
• Assist with irrigation management and water conservation practices to maintain desired playing conditions across all golf course surfaces.
• Develop a working knowledge of the Toro irrigation system, including system repairs, startup, winterization, and adjustments.
• Coordinate and execute golf course projects, including drainage improvements, tee leveling, bunker maintenance, sod installation, and other course enhancements.
• Assist with inventory management, purchasing, obtaining vendor quotes, and maintaining adequate supplies and materials.
• Maintain an organized and detailed approach to the golf course, maintenance facility, and daily operations.
• Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, along with the administrative aptitude necessary to support the department.
• Assist with snow removal operations and scheduling during the offseason.
• Work collaboratively with the Director of Agronomy and the entire grounds team to maintain high standards while supporting the Club's overall objectives.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 2–4 year certificate or degree in Turfgrass Management or a related field preferred.
• At least 2–3 years of golf course assistant superintendent experience preferred.
• Candidates with additional industry experience may be considered in place of formal education.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a Michigan pesticide applicator certification.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a valid Michigan driver's license.
• Strong understanding of golf course maintenance practices and agronomic principles.
• Knowledge and appreciation of the game of golf.
• Demonstrated leadership ability and a commitment to continued professional development.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• $75,000 annual salary.
• Bonus opportunity.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with up to a 5% employer match.
• Paid time off and vacation.
• Long-term disability insurance.
• Continued education and professional development opportunities.
• Local and national association dues paid.
• Uniforms and clothing allowance.
• Meals provided.
• Golfing privileges.
• A Club committed to supporting employees' personal and professional goals.

ABOUT US

Founded in 1921, Cascade Hills Country Club is a member-owned private club located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The golf course was designed by Jack Duray and Willie Park and features many elements of golf course architecture from the Golden Age. Cascade Hills offers a variety of amenities to its membership, including a 27-hole golf facility (18-hole, par-71 championship course and a nine-hole par-3 course), tennis, paddle ball, platform tennis, a swimming pool, fitness facility, two full-service restaurants, banquet facilities, and walking and biking trails. The Club has a history of investing in its golf course and maintenance operation. Recent improvements include significant irrigation infrastructure upgrades in 2025, along with new forward tees, bunker construction, fairway expansions, and recontouring projects. Cascade Hills is committed to helping employees establish and achieve personal and professional goals. Team members are encouraged to attend industry seminars and networking events, develop professional relationships, and take advantage of opportunities for continued growth. The operation values transparency and open communication and supports employees as they pursue their long-term career objectives. Employment Type Full-time