Golf Course Superintendent

Golf Course Superintendent – Metropolitan Golf Links, Oakland, CA

Metropolitan Golf Links is a public facility featuring an 18-hole course, a 62,000 square-foot grass driving range, two practice putting greens, a short-game practice area for public use, and a wedding ceremony site. The course was built atop dredged materials from the Oakland Estuary and a landfill. Designed by Johnny Miller and Fred Bliss, the course has USGA-spec greens and two balanced nines that start and end at the clubhouse.

Since its opening in 2003, Metropolitan Golf Links has been a destination for golfers of all skill levels.

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

The Superintendent will collaborate daily with the Metropolitan Golf Links team, clients, guests, and internal and external partners. This role requires excellent oral and written communication, and leadership in team recruiting, hiring, and training. The Superintendent will manage labor, time, materials, and finances to maintain high-quality conditions while meeting environmental and financial goals, in alignment with the company value of Environmental Stewardship.

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

Turfgrass and Grounds Management

• Oversee activities related to producing excellent playing and practice conditions daily.
• Plan and implement a comprehensive fertilizer, aeration, and pest management program.
• 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 Course Co 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 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

• 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 industry developments through ongoing education, industry publications, and participation in relevant associations and organizations.

• 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…