ALTON GOLF CLUB
Alton, Hampshire
HEAD GREENKEEPER
Permanent | Full-time | Salary: Competitive (CGCS Scale)
About the Club
Alton Golf Club is a well-established, member-owned golf club set in the beautiful Hampshire countryside. As a registered charity, the Club is committed to providing an outstanding golfing experience for its members and guests, and to the long-term stewardship of its course and natural environment. We are now seeking an experienced and passionate Head Greenkeeper to lead our greenkeeping operation and take the course to the next level.
The Role
Reporting to the Club Committee, the Head Greenkeeper will take full responsibility for the maintenance, presentation and ongoing development of the golf course. You will lead a small greenkeeping team, manage the course budget and machinery fleet, and work closely with Club management to deliver a consistently high-quality playing surface throughout the year.
A key element of this role is the delivery and ongoing development of the Club’s three-year Course Development Plan. The successful candidate will play a central part in driving this programme forward, working with the Committee to prioritise improvements, manage associated works and report on progress.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all aspects of golf course maintenance including turf management, irrigation, drainage and landscaping
- Lead, supervise and develop a team of 1–2 greenkeeping staff, fostering a positive and professional working environment
- Prepare and manage the greenkeeping department budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources
- Maintain and manage the machinery fleet, including robot mowers, ensuring servicing schedules are met and equipment is operated safely
- Source and manage supplies of seeds, fertilisers, chemicals and other materials in line with seasonal requirements
- Ensure the course is prepared to a high standard for all competitions, matches and Club events
- Lead the implementation and delivery of the Club’s three-year Course Development Plan, reporting progress to the Committee at regular intervals
- Act as the Club’s lead on all health and safety matters within the greenkeeping department, including maintaining up-to-date risk assessments, COSHH records, and safe systems of work
- Ensure full compliance with all relevant health and safety legislation, including Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), Manual Handling Regulations, and the safe storage and use of agrochemicals (PA1/PA2/PA6)
- Maintain accurate digital records using greenkeeping management software, including spray records, maintenance logs, soil test results and staff timesheets
- Use IT tools confidently for course planning, reporting to the Committee, budget tracking and ordering supplies
- Monitor and respond to changing weather, soil and turf conditions throughout the year, using data-led approaches where possible
Person Specification
Essential:
- Proven experience in golf course greenkeeping, including supervisory or senior greenkeeper experience
- NVQ Level 3 in Sports Turf Management (or equivalent qualification)
- PA1, PA2 and PA6 spraying certificates
- Full UK driving licence
- Strong practical knowledge of turf management, machinery and course presentation
- Demonstrable knowledge of health and safety legislation as it applies to greenkeeping, including COSHH, risk assessment and safe systems of work
- Competent IT skills, including use of greenkeeping management software, Microsoft Office (or equivalent), and digital record-keeping
- Experience of contributing to or delivering a course development or improvement programme
- Excellent organisational, planning and communication skills
Desirable:
- IOSH Managing Safely certificate or equivalent H&S qualification
- Experience using cloud-based or specialist greenkeeping software (e.g. Greenkeeper App, Pitchcare, or similar)
- Knowledge of irrigation system operation and maintenance
- Knowledge of robotic mower systems
- First aid certificate
- BIGGA membership
What We Offer
- Competitive salary in line with CGCS (Committee for Golf Club Salaries) recommended scale
- Complimentary golf and use of Club facilities
- Club-funded BIGGA membership and support for continuing professional development
- Workplace pension scheme
- Uniform provided
- On-site parking
- A friendly, supportive Club environment with a committed and engaged membership
How to Apply
To apply, please send a covering letter and current CV to the Club Secretary at:
[email protected]
Please include details of your current or most recent position, relevant qualifications, and the names of two referees (referees will not be contacted without your prior consent).
Interviews will be held at the Club. Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to appoint before the closing date.
Alton Golf Club is a registered charity. We are an equal opportunities employer.
Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person
