Assistant-in-Training

Conway Farms Golf Club, located in Lake Forest, Illinois is on the search for an Assistant in Training (AIT) to help bolster their strong and capable golf course maintenance team. The AIT reports directly to the Golf Course Superintendent and Assistant(s). Under their supervision, the AIT will participate in the maintenance of the golf course greens, tees, fairways, and other property features of Conway Farms Golf Club. He/She will also assist in the repair and maintenance of mechanical equipment, interact with other club departments, and complete other related work as required by the Club.

Club highlights:

• Staff: 9 full time and 15-20 seasonal employees
• Typical work schedule: (In-Season) April 1 - November 30: Weekdays 4:30am to tasks are completed, +1 4-hour weekend shift per week.  (Off-Season) December 1 - March 31st: Work week is typically capped at 40 hours, but occasional weekend shifts are required for snow removal
• Grass Types: 007 Bentgrass on Greens and Collars, Penncross Bentgrass and Tees and Fairways, Kentucky Bluegrass Rough, Fine Fescue Bunker faces, and Native Prairie grass variety blend.
• Equipment: All owned equipment.  All mowing equipment is Toro, and heavy-duty equipment is primarily John Deere.
• Irrigation: Rainbird 2 wire system installed in 2021 with CirrusPro software
• Future projects: Major clubhouse renovation project, reconstruction of 8th green and surrounds complex, and range complex renovation

Success traits of individual:

• An individual eager to hone and develop skills in the turfgrass industry.
• A positive attitude and enthusiasm for learning new skills and practices are valued over prior work experience.
• A motivated employee dedicated to advancing their skillset and career growth.
• Ability to think creatively and problem solve.
• Ability to communicate and work professionally with others.
• a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn new things.
• Punctual and responsible.

Key responsibilities, skills, aptitude, and knowledge:

• Assists in supervision and maintenance of greens, tees and fairways, and other course features
• Instructs equipment operators on the operation and care of mowing and other equipment
• Supervises and/or operates and calibrates pesticide and fertilizer application equipment
• Supervises and participates in the operation and maintenance of pumps, irrigation, and drainage systems
• Learning facility operations practices and protocols
• Oversight and operation of Irrigation, Chemical application, Pin Sheet, and Job workboard software programs
• Daily working relationship with Superintendent, Assistant(s), Foreman, Mechanic, Staff
• Communication and interactions with other club departments
• Attending educational seminars and industry trade shows to keep up with current best practices and help bring new ideas back to the club.
• Ability to modify the daily work schedule based on professional interpretation 
• Any miscellaneous tasks assigned by the Superintendent or Assistant(s).

Requirements: 

• Possess good communication skills
• Ability to supervise maintenance work to achieve efficient utilization of workers and equipment
• Preparation of clear and concise reports; and maintain effective employee and public relations
• Self-motivated, independent thinker with a positive team-focused attitude
• Knowledge and interest in the game of golf
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint; and professional email and phone communication
• Ability to bend, squat, sit, stand, and lift (min 50lbs.) as required by work needed on the facility
• Possession of a valid driver's license
• Possession of current state pesticide operator/applicator license

• 2- or 4-year Turfgrass degree/certificate 
• Working knowledge of the maintenance of golf course operations
• Agronomic and cultural knowledge regarding – seeding, planting, cultivating, pruning, and caring for all plants
• Characteristics and proper use of various fertilizers, pesticides, and soil conditioners
• Water moisture management abilities

• Salary: $60,000
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance  
• Annual bonus based on performance
• PTO and Holiday benefits 
• Uniform allowance
• Free meal options 
• Golf privileges
• Local and national association dues
• Attendance of local and national events 
• Education allowance
• Annual professional tournament volunteer opportunities 
• Attend green committee and various club meetings
• Career development opportunities
• Opportunity for advancement

About Conway Farms: 

Conway Farms is a private 18-hole golf only facility located on the North Shore of Chicago. Conway prides itself on delivering exceptional playing conditions and overall experience for high level players daily. The club offers a quaint, understated and familial environment that is revered by membership and is delivered by a staff that hold the same shared values. The club is committed to employee personal growth and education. 

Conway Farms Golf Club is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, conditions or other distinguishing characteristics protected under title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.