Greenskeeper @ Sand Valley
Job description
About the Role
The Greenskeeper position at Sand Valley at Dreamgolf represents a stewardship opportunity for a dedicated professional committed to the preservation of premier sand-based putting surfaces. Set upon 12,000 acres of historic Wisconsin dunes, this role is integral to maintaining the resort's world-class golfing experience. Sand Valley, founded in 2016, is known for its hospitality and the serenity of the Wisconsin Wilderness. This position requires a proactive approach to agronomic care, ensuring that the greens meet the rigorous standards expected by guests and align with the resort's goals of environmental stewardship. Success in this role demands a strong sense of ownership over turf management and a commitment to continuous learning within the dynamic resort community.
What You'll Do
You will operate and maintain specialized equipment, including cup cutters and topdressing spreaders, to ensure precise and efficient greens maintenance. Implementing daily green-reading procedures, you will communicate findings effectively with golf operations staff to inform course management decisions. Meticulous mowing practices at various heights of cut will be performed to promote healthy turf and consistent playing conditions across all greens.
Conducting thorough inspections of greens surfaces will be a daily task to identify and diagnose issues related to soil health, moisture, and turfgrass stress. You will manage the application of sand and other soil amendments to maintain optimal surface playability and trueness of the greens. Collaboration with irrigation technicians will be essential to monitor and adjust watering schedules specific to sand-based putting surfaces.
Utilizing integrated pest management strategies, you will address pests and diseases in an environmentally responsible manner. Coordination with other departments will ensure timely and efficient execution of maintenance projects without disrupting guest play. Demonstrating keen attention to detail, you will uphold the high visual and functional standards expected at a championship resort. Adapting to changing weather conditions and seasonal demands will be necessary to keep greens in peak condition year-round.
Participation in ongoing training and development will keep you current with best practices in turf management and golf course maintenance. You will contribute to the overall aesthetic and functional quality of the resort by supporting the care of surrounding areas related to green complexes. Assisting in the documentation of maintenance activities will support record-keeping and future planning efforts. Engaging with team members will foster a collaborative and supportive work environment focused on continuous improvement.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must possess a high school diploma, a GED, or equivalent military experience. You must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for this position. The legal right to work in the United States must be provided through documentation at the time of hire. Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening and a background check, as required by the resort's safety policies, is mandatory.
The ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation, as defined by applicable law, is required. Reliable transportation to and from the job site in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, is necessary, as public transportation may not be readily available. Availability to work a full-time schedule during the peak operational season of the resort is essential.
You must be capable of working outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and precipitation. The ability to lift, carry, and maneuver equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds is a necessary part of daily duties.
Nice to have
Experience with sand greens maintenance is strongly preferred for this role. Familiarity with the specific challenges of golf course turf in cold climate environments is a significant advantage. Previous employment in a golf course maintenance role is highly desirable. Experience with the use of GPS or laser-guided mowing equipment is preferred. Knowledge of sustainable water management practices related to turf irrigation is a valued skill.
Practical notes
This is a seasonal, full-time position with hours that will vary based on operational needs, potentially requiring early mornings, evenings, and weekend work. Travel is not required for this role; the position is based at the single location in Nekoosa, Wisconsin. This position is not eligible for remote work and requires on-site presence at the resort. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.