2027 Turfgrass Science Intern
Job Details
Shoreacres Golf Club – Golf Course Management Internship
Shoreacres, nestled along Chicago's North Shore in Lake Bluff, Illinois, was founded in 1916 by a group of visionary Chicago businessmen who sought to create a quiet, understated retreat from the bustling country clubs of the era. They commissioned renowned golf course architect Seth Raynor to design the course, which opened for play in 1921 and is widely regarded as one of his finest masterpieces.
The course is distinguished by its dramatic glacial ravines and exceptional routing, which flows naturally across the landscape while showcasing many of Raynor's celebrated Template Holes alongside several of his original designs. The result is a golf course of remarkable strategic interest, architectural significance, and enduring beauty.
The Club's founders acquired more than 450 feet of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline with the intention of preserving a private sanctuary where the game of golf, camaraderie, and understated elegance would take precedence over grandeur. More than a century later, those founding principles remain at the heart of Shoreacres, carefully preserved by generations of members dedicated to protecting the Club's unique heritage.
Perched above the shoreline is one of golf's most iconic clubhouses, designed by celebrated architect David Adler. Its commanding views of Lake Michigan provide a setting unlike any other, complementing a golf course that continues to rank among the finest examples of Seth Raynor's work and one of the game's most treasured clubs.
Our internship is designed for motivated individuals who aspire to become leaders within the golf course management profession. Interns are not viewed simply as seasonal employees—they become an integral part of the management team and are entrusted with meaningful responsibilities that provide a comprehensive understanding of operating a Top 100 golf facility.
Throughout the internship, students will gain hands-on experience in every facet of golf course management, including:
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Championship course setup and daily conditioning
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Equipment operation and preventative maintenance
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Calibration and application of fertilizers and plant protectants
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Water management and irrigation practices
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Turfgrass cultural programs and agronomic planning
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Small crew leadership and personnel management
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Budgeting, project planning, and operational decision-making
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Career development, networking, and one-on-one mentorship
Interns will also have the opportunity to work with the latest technologies in golf course maintenance, including John Deere GPS-guided application equipment, precision spraying systems, and modern fleet management tools.
Learning Environment
The Green & Grounds Department is intentionally structured to maximize mentorship and professional growth. Interns work directly alongside the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendents, and Equipment Manager on a daily basis, providing exposure to both the agronomic and leadership responsibilities required to successfully manage an elite golf course.
Our team consists of:
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Superintendent
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Equipment Manager
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Three Assistant Superintendents
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Twenty-two full-time and seasonal staff members, many with more than a decade of service to the Club
The longevity and professionalism of our staff create an outstanding environment for learning. Interns quickly become valued members of the team and are encouraged to ask questions, contribute ideas, and take ownership of projects throughout the season.
Employee Housing
Shoreacres is equally committed to providing an exceptional living experience. Intern housing is located just steps from the maintenance facility and has recently undergone a $600,000 renovation. The Club's investment reflects its commitment to attracting and developing the industry's next generation of professionals by providing modern, comfortable, and safe accommodations throughout the internship.
Our Commitment
The objective of the Shoreacres internship is straightforward: to develop complete golf course management professionals. By the conclusion of the season, interns will leave with a deeper understanding of championship turf management, stronger leadership skills, meaningful industry relationships, and the confidence necessary to excel as Assistant Superintendents and, ultimately, Golf Course Superintendents.
Many internships teach you how to maintain a golf course. At Shoreacres, our goal is to teach you how to lead one.
Job Benefits
Benefits include:
* Onsite Housing – Modern, fully renovated housing located just steps from the maintenance facility.
* Complimentary Meals – Meals are provided whenever the Clubhouse is serving staff.
* Uniform Program – Club-issued uniforms and personal protective equipment are provided.
* Golfing Privileges – Opportunities to play one of Seth Raynor's finest masterpieces and experience the course from the golfer's perspective.
* Professional Clothing & Footwear Reimbursement – Up to $150 toward work-related clothing or footwear.
* Academic Bonus/Scholarship – Current students who successfully complete the internship are eligible for a $1,000–$2,500 year-end scholarship, awarded in December in recognition of outstanding performance and commitment.
* Work-Life Balance – Scheduled time off throughout the season allows interns to explore Chicago, Lake Michigan, Wisconsin, and the many attractions of the Midwest while maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal time.
Our goal is to provide an internship experience that is as rewarding outside the workplace as it is on the golf course—one that develops exceptional turfgrass professionals while creating lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences.
Job Requirements
Preferred Qualifications:
* Previous golf course maintenance experience is preferred but not required.
* Desire to pursue a career as an Assistant Superintendent and ultimately a Golf Course Superintendent.
* Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
* Strong communication skills and willingness to lead by example.
* Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
* Ability to obtain an Illinois Pesticide Applicator License during the internship (the Club will assist with preparation and testing).
* Ability to perform the physical demands associated with golf course maintenance, including lifting up to 50 pounds, walking long distances, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
At Shoreacres, we place as much value on character and work ethic as we do on experience. We are looking for individuals who are humble, dependable, curious, and driven to become the next generation of leaders in the golf course management profession.
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
* A strong desire to learn every aspect of golf course management while working in a hands-on, team-oriented environment.
* A positive attitude, exceptional work ethic, and willingness to take on increasing responsibility throughout the internship.
* An appreciation for championship golf course conditioning and the pursuit of firm, fast playing conditions through sound agronomic practices.
* Interest in learning how to manage high-performance turf maintained at the highest standards, where precision, attention to detail, and consistency are essential.
* A passion for classic golf course architecture and an understanding of how agronomic practices influence strategy, playability, and the architect's original intent.
* Comfort working with state-of-the-art turf management technology, including GPS-guided application equipment, precision irrigation, and modern maintenance equipment.
* Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a diverse team environment.
* Spanish language proficiency is highly valued, as it enhances communication and leadership within our team, but it is not required.
Above all, we are seeking individuals who are humble, curious, dependable, and committed to continuous improvement. Our goal is to mentor future leaders who take pride in producing exceptional playing conditions while enjoying the process and the people they work alongside each day.
