Senior Agronomist

Description

Position Title: Senior Agronomist

Department: Golf Course Maintenance

FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Directly Reports To: Superintendent 

Indirectly Reports to: Assistant Superintendent

About the Position

The Golf Course Senior Agronomist is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of turfgrass and landscape management on a golf course. They provide expertise in agronomy, soil science, irrigation management, pest control, and sustainable practices to ensure optimal playing conditions and aesthetics. The Senior Agronomist collaborates with golf course superintendents, groundskeeping teams, and golf management to develop and implement strategies for turfgrass health, maintenance, and overall course excellence.

We are seeking dynamic and hard-working individuals with a passion for golf to be involved in all aspects of golf course maintenance and work with existing team members and management. The position is designed to help the candidate advance their career in turf. Specific duties include, but are not limited to; hand watering greens, fertilizer and chemical applications, equipment operation, and leading small groups to accomplish maintenance and construction goals. Candidate must have completed a 2/4-year turf program, degree in a related field or have equivalent work experience. We are looking for candidates who possess a positive attitude and a willingness to work. A basic knowledge of Spanish is a plus but not required. 

Position Responsibilities

Turfgrass Management:

   - Develop and implement comprehensive turfgrass management programs, including mowing, fertilization, aeration, and topdressing schedules.

   - Monitor turfgrass health, growth, and quality, and provide recommendations for effective weed, pest, and disease control.

   - Implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices to minimize chemical usage and maintain environmentally friendly approaches.

Soil Health and Fertility:

   - Assess soil conditions and fertility levels through soil sampling and analysis.

   - Develop soil management strategies to improve soil health, nutrient balance, and organic matter content.

   - Advise on soil amendment applications and develop soil cultivation plans to enhance turfgrass root development.

Irrigation Management:

   - Monitor and optimize irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use and proper moisture levels for turfgrass.

   - Develop irrigation schedules based on weather conditions, evapotranspiration rates, and specific turfgrass requirements.

   - Implement water conservation practices and promote the use of water-saving technologies.

Pest and Disease Control:

   - Identify and monitor turfgrass pests, diseases, and invasive species.

   - Develop and implement pest and disease control strategies, including chemical and non-chemical approaches.

   - Educate staff on early detection, prevention, and management techniques to minimize turfgrass damage.

Golf Course Enhancement:

   - Collaborate with golf course superintendents and landscape architects to enhance the visual appeal and playability of the golf course.

   - Advise on course renovation, reseeding, and turfgrass selection to optimize course conditions and meet golfer expectations.

   - Develop and implement long-term plans for course improvement and enhancement projects.

Environmental Stewardship:

   - Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices.

   - Develop and implement integrated pest management (IPM) programs to minimize chemical usage and protect natural habitats.

   - Promote the use of organic fertilizers, compost, and other environmentally friendly inputs.

Training and Advisory:

   - Provide technical guidance and training to groundskeeping staff on proper turfgrass maintenance techniques and equipment operation.

   - Conduct workshops, seminars, and demonstrations to disseminate knowledge and promote continuous learning.

   - Offer on-site advice and troubleshooting support to address turfgrass challenges and optimize course conditions.

Budgeting and Resource Management:

   - Assist in developing annual budgets for turfgrass management, equipment, and supplies.

   - Monitor expenses and implement cost-saving measures without compromising course quality.

   - Coordinate with suppliers and contractors to procure necessary materials and services.

Requirements

Education

Bachelor's or master’s degree in Agronomy, Turfgrass Science, or a related field preferred. 

Experience

- Extensive experience in golf course agronomy and turfgrass management, preferably in a senior or leadership role.

- In-depth knowledge of turfgrass species, soil science, irrigation principles, and pest control in a golf course setting.

- Familiarity with golf course architecture, construction, and renovation processes.

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret and apply scientific research.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

- Proficiency in using agronomic software, GIS, and data analysis tools.

Physical Demands

Climbing stairs, bending, and squatting, lifting to 50 lbs.

Requires grasping, writing, standing, sitting, walking repetitive motions, listening, and hearing ability and visual acuity.

Talking and hearing occurs continuously in the process of communicating with employees.

Requires manual dexterity to use and operate necessary equipment.

Grooming

All employees must maintain a neat, clean, and well-groomed appearance per club standards. Professional business attire required.

Other

Regular attendance in conformance with the standards, which may be established from time to time, is essential to the successful performance of this position. Employees with irregular attendance will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Due to the cyclical nature of the hospitality industry, employees may be required to work varying schedules to reflect the business needs of the club. In addition, attendance at all scheduled training sessions and meetings is required.