Description

Position: Valparaiso Country Club Grounds Superintendent

Type: Full time

Salary: $85,000-95,000

Responsibilities and reporting through Office Manager, & VCC Board of Directors

Job Summary

The Grounds Superintendent is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and strategic direction of the golf course and all club grounds, ensuring they reflect the highest standards of excellence expected at a premier country club. This position oversees all aspects of turf management, landscape maintenance, staff development, budgeting, and capital improvement planning. The Grounds Superintendent works closely with the Office Manager, Golf Professional staff, and Grounds Committee to deliver exceptional playing conditions and a visually stunning club environment year-round.

Leadership, Mentorship & Team Development

• Recruit, train, mentor, and motivate a high-performing turf management team
• Serve as a mentor to staff, providing guidance, education, and opportunities that promote their professional development and prepare them for future superintendent roles.
• Foster a culture of accountability, pride, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Promote safety standards and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Be a highly visible leader on the golf course, regularly engaging with members, professional staff, and maintenance employees to demonstrate accessibility, approachability, and a hands-on commitment to excellence.

Planning, Administration & Operational Partnership

• Develop and manage operating and capital budgets in alignment with the Board of Directors.
• Collaborate on long-range planning, including renovations, upgrades, and sustainability initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records of agronomic practices, weather data, pesticide applications, and equipment maintenance.

Communication & Member Relations

• Maintain open and professional communication with the Office Manager, Golf Professional Staff, Grounds Committee, and membership.
• Provide clear, timely updates regarding course conditions, upcoming projects, and agronomic initiatives.
• Educate the membership by explaining not only what agronomic practices are taking place, but also why they are necessary-whether it's aerification, topdressing, or adjustments in mowing heights-so members gain understanding and appreciation for how each decision enhances playability, turf health, and the long-term quality of the golf course.
• Develop and maintain multiple channels of communication (e.g., club newsletters, email blasts, website updates, and on-course signage) to keep members consistently informed and engaged.
• Represent the Club in a professional manner with members, staff, industry peers, and vendors.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• A degree in agronomy, turfgrass management, or a related field, with a strong preference for GCSAA Class A member but not required.
• Proven ability to deliver elite-level course conditioning under demanding member expectations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to inspire and develop a cohesive, motivated team.
• A passion for mentoring staff and advancing the next generation of golf course leaders.
• Collaborative skills and a proven track record of working in close partnership with golf professionals to enhance the overall member experience.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate agronomic science into clear, member-friendly explanations that build trust, transparency, and confidence in course management decisions.
• A leadership style that emphasizes visibility, presence, and engagement on the golf course, ensuring members and staff alike recognize the superintendent as an active, approachable partner in delivering the golf experience.
• Financial acumen in managing budgets, capital projects, and cost controls.