2027-2028 Assistant in Training (The Lido & 21 Golf Club)

About the role

The Assistant in Training (AIT) is a structured, two-facility internship experience created through a partnership between Sand Valley and 21 Golf Club. This highly selective program is designed for emerging agronomy professionals pursuing long-term leadership careers in golf course management. Through hands-on responsibility and direct mentorship, the AIT supports daily golf course operations while building technical agronomy expertise, leadership capability, and operational judgment across two distinct golf environments.

Program Timeline

• Phase 1 - The Lido at Sand Valley | Nekoosa, WI: Late March or early April through mid-October 2027
• Transition Week: One week off for travel to South Carolina
• Phase 2 - 21 Golf Club | Aiken, South Carolina: Approximately six months, concluding in April 2028

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist with daily planning, staffing schedules, and execution of maintenance activities
• Perform course setup, mowing, rolling, bunker care, and irrigation operation
• Train, guide, and supervise seasonal team members with a focus on quality and safety
• Support irrigation, drainage, water management, and turf health programs
• Aid in fertilizer, aeration, and integrated pest management applications
• Assist with equipment operation, maintenance, and preventative care
• Serve in the Superintendent’s capacity during absences, as assigned

• Assist the Director of Agronomy with daily course and facility management
• Support crew scheduling, operational procedures, and daily course setup
• Assist with irrigation scheduling and system adjustments to maximize water efficiency
• Apply best management practices to meet course conditioning and detail standards
• Aid in fertilizer, plant protectant, and aerification programs
• Cookordination with the Equipment Manager on mowing schedules, tournaments, and equipment needs
• Assist with construction projects, renovations, and special initiatives
• Maintain chemical, fertilizer, and application records
• Participate in budgeting discussions and operational planning
• Actively engage in on-the-job learning by asking questions, applying instruction, and demonstrating initiative

Qualifications

• High school diploma required
• Certificate, Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or current enrollment in an accredited turfgrass or related program preferred
• Previous golf course maintenance experience preferred
• Strong interest in building a long-term career in golf course management
• Working knowledge of agronomy, irrigation, and course maintenance practices, or a strong desire to learn
• Demonstrated ability to understand and follow instructions, policies, and procedures
• General understanding of motorized golf course equipment
• Demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and strong work ethic
• Playing knowledge of golf preferred but not required
• Flexible schedule including early mornings, weekends, and holidays
• Willingness to relocate temporarily as part of a two-facility program