Assistant Superintendent

Shoal Creek Golf Club located in Shoal Creek, Alabama is seeking a skilled and dedicated Assistant Golf Course Superintendent to join their golf course maintenance team.

This position will support and report to the Director of Agronomy in overseeing the maintenance and conditioning of our premier golf course, contributing to the highest standards of playability and aesthetics. The Assistant Superintendent will be responsible for assisting with all aspects of golf course maintenance, including turf management, irrigation, equipment management, and crew supervision. 

There is significant growth potential within the organization. The club has a strong history of promoting Assistant Golf Course Superintendents to Superintendent positions, which reflects the commitment to developing talent from within. This focus on internal advancement creates a clear pathway for career progression, encouraging professional growth and leadership development among the staff.

Club highlights:

• 2025 Maintenance Budget - $2.8 million
• Total annual rounds - 14,000 - 15,000
• Total staff - 25, including part and full time employees
• Typical work schedule: 50-60 hours per week in season (spring through fall). Daily Schedule: 6:00 a.m. start, typically ending around 4:00 p.m.  Rotating weekend Coverage.
• Turf types: AU victory bentgrass will be converted to tifeagle in 2026, 419 fairways will be converted to stadium zoysia, rough is 419
• Future projects- $22 million dollar course restoration beginning October 2025
• Irrigation system - Toro
• Equipment - Brand new toro equipment in 2026

SUCCESS TRAITS OF INDIVIDUAL:

• Strong Leadership Skills – Able to motivate, guide, and manage a diverse team effectively.
• Attention to Detail – Focused on maintaining the highest standards in course maintenance and aesthetics.
• Problem-Solving Ability – Proactive and resourceful when addressing course issues or unforeseen challenges.
• Passion for Turf Management – Deep interest and knowledge in turf science, with a commitment to staying updated on best practices.
• Adaptability – Capable of adjusting to changing weather, seasonal demands, and unexpected project needs.
• Physical Stamina and Endurance – Comfortable working long hours, performing hands-on work, and managing physical tasks in various weather conditions.
• Effective Communication – Skilled in both verbal and written communication to clearly convey instructions, updates, and project insights to the team and other departments.

• Learning the Course Layout and Standards – Gaining a deep understanding of Shoal Creek’s specific standards, key features, and aesthetic expectations is crucial. This includes familiarizing oneself with the course’s layout, turf types, landscape, and specific areas that require regular attention.
• Building Relationships with the Team – Developing a rapport with grounds crew members, the Director of Agronomy, and other team members will be essential for effective teamwork and leadership.
• Understanding Current Maintenance Practices – Reviewing current maintenance schedules, irrigation protocols, pest control programs, and equipment upkeep practices to identify areas for improvement or adjustments.
• Implementing Daily Course Management Routines – Taking on daily course setup, including mowing, irrigation checks, and addressing immediate turf needs to maintain course conditions.
• Monitoring Turf Health and Condition – Assessing turf health, specifically bentgrass and other key turf areas, to create an early action plan for seasonal maintenance, pest management, and fertilization.
• Setting Up Preventative Maintenance Programs – Collaborating on a schedule for topdressing, grooming, and other turf management techniques to ensure the longevity and quality of the greens, fairways, and other playing surfaces.
• Safety and Environmental Compliance – Reviewing and adhering to all safety protocols and environmental standards, particularly in chemical use and storage, irrigation practices, and equipment handling.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND APTITUDE: 

• Course Maintenance: Ensure the golf course and practice facilities are kept in excellent condition, managing daily course operations and troubleshooting any issues affecting playability.  
• Turf Management: Oversee turfgrass health and maintenance practices, including seeding, aeration, fertilization, pest control, and disease management, with a focus on bentgrass and other warm/cool-season grasses.  
• Irrigation & Drainage: Manage irrigation systems, monitor water usage, and assist in troubleshooting and repairing irrigation systems as needed.  
• Staff Supervision: Train, schedule, and supervise grounds crew members, fostering a positive work environment and upholding safe work practices.  
• Equipment & Facility Maintenance: Supervise the maintenance and safe operation of course equipment and facilities, coordinating repairs and preventative maintenance as needed.  
• Inventory & Budget Management: Maintain inventories for course supplies, equipment, and chemicals; assist with budget preparation and expense tracking to maximize resources.  
• Environmental Stewardship: Implement environmentally responsible practices in course maintenance, supporting sustainable practices and regulatory compliance.  
• Special Projects: Collaborate on course improvement projects and renovation efforts, working closely with the Director of Agronomy on design and construction. 

ABOUT US:

The restoration of Shoal Creek, led by renowned golf course architect Andrew Green, represents a significant commitment to enhancing the course's historical integrity while modernizing its playability. Set to begin in October 2025, this $22 million project will involve converting the greens from bentgrass to Tifeagle, known for its superior performance in warmer climates. Additionally, the fairways and tees will be transitioned to Stadium Zoysia, providing improved durability and quality of play. Green's vision emphasizes a harmonious blend of aesthetic beauty and functional design, ensuring that the course remains competitive as a premier tournament venue. This restoration promises to rejuvenate Shoal Creek, making it not only a challenge for golfers but also a celebration of its storied past.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.shoalcreekclub.com/