Director of Golf Course Maintenance

TPC Jasna Polana, located in Princeton, New Jersey is seeking a driven and successful professional to be their next Director of Golf Course Maintenance.  The chosen candidate will be responsible for overseeing the management and upkeep of the golf course properties, including the golf course, clubhouse grounds, landscaping, open spaces, and the equipment used to maintain these areas. This role ensures that the maintenance meets or exceeds the expectations of the club's members and guests, while also achieving the goals set for the club.

The Director of Golf Course Maintenance will report to the General Manager and the Senior VP of Agronomy.

INITIAL PRIORITIES OF POSITION:

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the course, clubhouse grounds, and equipment to identify and address immediate maintenance needs.
• Evaluate staff roles, implement training programs, and establish clear performance expectations to enhance team efficiency.
• Optimize agronomic practices, including fertilization, pest control, and aeration, to maintain top-tier course conditions.
• Assess equipment needs, prioritize repairs or replacements, and manage budgets to balance quality maintenance with cost control.
• Maintain open communication with leadership and members, providing updates on course maintenance and aligning with club expectations.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations, updating protocols and training staff on proper procedures.

SUCCESS TRAITS OF INDIVIDUAL:

• Proactive problem solver
• Detail-oriented & results-driven
• Strong leader & team builder
• Clear & professional communicator
• Financially savvy & resourceful
• Committed to safety & compliance
• Innovative & forward-thinking
• Collaborative, adaptable & member-focused

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES, KNOWLEDGE, APTITUDE AND OTHER TRAITS: 

Golf Course Maintenance Management:

• Direct and manage the maintenance of the golf course(s) and all maintainable areas, including the clubhouse and surrounding grounds, in accordance with the club’s turf management program.
• Conduct regular inspections of the golf course(s), evaluate conditions, and recommend improvements.
• Plan all maintenance and project work, applying agronomic and administrative expertise to achieve maintenance standards and long-term goals.
• Oversee all construction, maintenance, and renovations on the golf course, including repairs to broken water lines or valves, with the ability to perform necessary repairs in emergency situations.
• Ensure that chemicals, petroleum, and other controlled products are used, stored, and disposed of per local, state, and federal regulations.

Safety and Compliance:

• Be knowledgeable of and adhere to the club’s standards, policies, and regulations to promote safe and efficient operations.
• Implement and enforce a comprehensive safety program for employees, members, and guests, in compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Manage the club’s hazard communication program, ensuring that MSDSs are readily available for all chemicals and products used on the course.
• Ensure proper handling and storage of chemicals, herbicides, and fertilizers in compliance with safety standards.

Staff Management and Development:

• Recruit, interview, hire, train, direct, and supervise employees for golf course maintenance.
• Plan and execute professional development and safety training activities for staff, including proper equipment use and handling of chemicals.
• Oversee the scheduling and routing of staff and equipment to accomplish maintenance tasks efficiently.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage maintenance teams and collaborate with the management team.
• Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming, including wearing the proper uniform and name tag when working.

Operational Oversight and Budgeting:

• Maintain accurate records on payroll, inventory, weather data, maintenance procedures, pesticide applications, and safety and environmental standards.
• Acquire necessary equipment and supplies to maintain the golf course(s).
• Supervise the operation of the equipment repair shop.
• Prepare and manage annual budgets for both maintenance and capital improvements to the golf course(s).
• Approve expenditures and manage cost control measures to keep expenses in line with approved budgets.
• Additional training in mechanics, design, surveying, and experience as an assistant to a Golf Course Superintendent.
• Advanced knowledge of agronomy, turf grass management, and golf facility construction.
• Proficient in maintenance of golf course turf, plant care, soil conditions, fertilization, pest control, drainage, and irrigation systems.
• Ability to interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedural manuals; excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Coordinate maintenance work with outside contractors when necessary.
• Make recommendations for capital improvements and equipment purchases.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Communicate regularly with the management team to discuss activities, facility conditions, maintenance plans, and scheduled events.
• Keep members informed about current and future maintenance activities and determine when the course should be closed due to weather conditions that may cause damage if play continues.
• Attend staff and management meetings, and perform other duties as assigned by management.

Professional Development and Education:

• Stay proactive in continuing education and stay up to date with advances in the field of agronomy.
• Committed to ongoing professional education through seminars, workshops, and trade shows.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to engage with diverse staff and stakeholders.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

Education & Certification:

• Bachelor's degree in Agronomy or related field, or Associate's degree in Turf Grass Management.
• Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) and Pesticide Application certification.
• Valid driver’s license.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: 

• $125,000 - $160,000, depending on experience
• Bonus 
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 401k
• PTO/Vacation
• Company vehicle
• Cell phone allowance
• Continued education
• Local and national dues
• Uniforms
• Meals provided
• Golfing privileges  

TYPICAL PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND WORKING DEMANDS:

• Able to meet and perform the physical requirement and to work effectively in an environment which is typical of this position.
•  Frequent lifting, bending, climbing, stooping and pulling.
• Be able to work in hot, wet, humid, cool or cold environments for long periods of time.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference and volume.  
• Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry as required in a job.
•  Requires a high degree of administrative and executive ability, especially in terms of problem solving and decision making.
• Must be effective in listening to, understanding, and clarifying the concerns and issues raised by employees, members and guests.
• Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions.
• Frequent exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals.
• Occasional exposure to wet and /or humid conditions; extreme heat; extreme cold; high, precarious places; risk of electrical shock and vibration.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.  

ABOUT TPC JASNA POLANA:

TPC Jasna Polana is a prestigious private golf and social club located in Princeton, New Jersey. The club offers an exceptional golfing experience with its 18-hole championship course designed by the legendary Gary Player. The course is known for its strategic layout, which harmonizes with the natural landscape, providing golfers with a challenging yet enjoyable round. Additionally, the club features a top-tier practice facility, including a vast practice tee, putting greens, and bunkers, alongside expert instruction programs led by PGA professionals.

The clubhouse, originally built in the 1970s, serves as the heart of the club’s social activities and boasts a U-shaped architectural design by Wallace K. Harrison. It houses dining areas, locker rooms, and event spaces, and is adorned with over 100 works of fine art. The club also offers private lodges, beautiful gardens, and a reflecting pool, creating a luxurious and tranquil setting for members. The club’s recognition extends beyond golf, with its Golf Shop being named among the "100 Best Golf Shops in America" by Golf World Business.

Recently acquired by Concert Golf Partners in July 2024, TPC Jasna Polana continues to uphold its reputation as a premier destination for golf and social events. The club remains committed to providing exceptional facilities and service while maintaining its legacy of excellence. Its proximity to Princeton University also offers unique cultural and educational opportunities, further enriching the member experience.

Application Instructions:

Please submit cover letter and resume addressed to Mr. Danny Gwyn, Senior Vice President at Concert Golf Partners, to the Bloom Golf Partners career page no later than April 14th, 2025.