Golf Course Superintendent

Golf Course Superintendent – Metropolitan Golf Links, Oakland, CA

Facility Description:

Metropolitan Golf Links is a public golf facility featuring an 18-hole course, 62,000 square-foot grass driving range, two practice putting greens, a short-game practice area for public use, a dedicated short-game practice facility for the UC Berkeley men’s and women’s golf teams, and a wedding ceremony site. The course was built atop dredged materials from the Oakland Estuary on the Galbraith Golf Course and a landfill.

Bay Area golfers love Metropolitan for its challenging links-style layout, designed by Johnny Miller and Fred Bliss, and its USGA-spec greens. Located adjacent to Oakland International Airport, the course features two balanced nines that start and end at the clubhouse. Since its opening in 2003, Metropolitan Golf Links has been a favorite destination for golfers of all skill levels.

Position Summary:

The Golf Course Superintendent will oversee all activities related to the maintenance of the golf course, practice facilities, driving range, grounds, and equipment. With Bentgrass/Poa annua greens, candidates with experience managing these turf varieties in climates similar to Oakland, California, are highly desired.

The Superintendent will collaborate daily with the Metropolitan Golf Links team, clients, guests, and both internal and external partners. This position requires excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and a commitment to leadership in team recruiting, hiring, and training. The Superintendent will effectively manage labor, time, materials, and finances to maintain high-quality conditions while meeting environmental and financial goals.

The Superintendent embodies one of the company’s core value of Environmental Stewardship through conservation, regeneration, restoration, and sustainable practices. Metropolitan has received local, state, and national recognition for its leadership in environmental stewardship, promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable resource management.

Additionally, the Superintendent will actively engage with community clubs and organizations, including local golf clubs, junior programs, and Oakland schools. Through the Oakland Turfgrass Education Initiative (OTEI), the Superintendent will support summer internships and school-year study tours.

Major Duties:

Turfgrass and Grounds Management:

• Oversee all activities associated with producing excellent playing and practice conditions daily.
• Plan and implement a comprehensive fertilizer, aeration, and pest management program to ensure optimal turfgrass and plant health.
• Develop and execute course improvement projects in collaboration with the leadership team.

Team Leadership:

• Hire, train, and supervise the maintenance team, ensuring alignment with quality standards.
• Plan and implement team schedules to optimize efficiency and outcomes.
• Foster a positive and professional work environment.

Equipment and Facility Management:

• Supervise equipment maintenance and repair operations.
• Establish and enforce cleaning and preventive maintenance protocols for tools, vehicles, and facilities, including chemical and fertilizer storage areas.

Budgeting and Planning:

• Develop the annual maintenance budget and operating plan; implement according to CourseCo policies to achieve financial goals.
• Manage ordering and receiving processes to maintain appropriate inventory levels and ensure cost-effectiveness.

Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, including OSHA regulations, relating to chemical and fertilizer storage and disposal, employee safety, and public safety.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, water usage, equipment repair, safety meetings, fertilizer and chemical applications, and pest control practices.

Community Engagement:

• Actively participate in community programs, including local junior golf initiatives and partnerships with Oakland schools.
• Support OTEI programs, such as summer internships and educational tours, to promote turfgrass education and career development.

Continuous Improvement:

• Stay informed on current and projected industry developments through ongoing education, industry publications, and participation in relevant associations and organizations.

Qualifications:

• Preferred Certification: Class A Superintendent designation.
• Licensing: Holds a current QAL or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years as a Golf Course Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent, with at least 5 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven ability to produce excellent playing conditions with efficient irrigation water use.
• Demonstrated skills in problem-solving, managing multiple priorities under pressure, and working flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience in team management, budget development, and strategic planning.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills and a positive, professional demeanor.
• Proficient in Microsoft Windows, Word, and Excel.
• Turf management degree (2- or 4-year program) preferred.

The Superintendent will report directly to the golf course General Manager.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Annual Salary: $110,000 to 125,000 DOE
• Additional Benefits: GCSAA dues, meals, cell phone reimbursement, participation in company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) plans.
• Paid Time Off: In accordance with company policy.

The Superintendent will report directly to the General Manager of Metropolitan Golf Links.

Metropolitan Golf Links is managed by CourseCo, Inc. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Successful applicants will be required to complete a pre-employment screening process and provide valid documentation proving eligibility to work.

To apply:  Please submit a resume to Lance Iwanaka, Senior Operations Manager, [email protected].