Assistant Superintendent in Training (AIT), Escondido Golf and Lake Club
Escondido Golf & Lake Club is a premier private club located in the Texas Hill Country, known for its exceptional playing conditions, strong membership, and commitment to continuous improvement. The club is currently undergoing a major golf course restoration project designed to enhance playability, improve long-term sustainability, and restore the original design intent. The course will be closed from May 4 through October 1, 2026, for a comprehensive renovation including greens complex renovation, putting surface regrassing, bunker renovation, tee complex renovation, and significant infrastructure upgrades.
About the role
The Assistant Superintendent in Training (AIT) will work closely with the Director of Agronomy, Golf Course Superintendent, and Assistant Superintendents to develop the skills necessary for a successful career in golf course management. This hands-on role focuses on learning daily operations, leadership, agronomy, and project execution, with direct exposure to planning, execution, and grow-in of a large-scale restoration project.
Responsibilities
- Assist with daily golf course maintenance operations
- Learn and participate in irrigation management and water conservation practices
- Assist with chemical and fertilizer applications
- Operate and maintain golf course equipment
- Support course setup and tournament preparation
- Participate in restoration project execution and grow-in
- Assist in crew leadership and task management
- Maintain a high standard of detail and course conditioning
Qualifications
- Strong work ethic and positive attitude
- Desire to pursue a career in golf course management
- Ability to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays
- Detail-oriented with a willingness to learn
- Prior golf course or landscape experience preferred but not required
- Enrollment in or interest in a turfgrass program is a plus
Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage (based on experience)
- On-site housing provided
- Uniforms provided
- Transportation assistance available if needed
- Meals provided during work hours
- Opportunities for career advancement and professional development
- Exposure to a large-scale golf course renovation and grow-in
About the role
The Head Golf Course Superintendent will lead the daily maintenance, conditioning, and presentation of a world-class golf course, practice facilities, and landscaped grounds. This position reports directly to the Director of Agronomy and plays a critical leadership role in executing agronomic programs and supporting the Club’s vision during and after the ongoing restoration.
Responsibilities
- Oversee daily maintenance and conditioning of the golf course, practice areas, and landscaped grounds
- Lead, train, and develop a skilled grounds team to deliver consistent championship-level playing surfaces
- Manage and optimize Toro irrigation systems for precise water application and efficiency
- Implement agronomic programs for Zion Zoysia fairways, JaMur Zoysia rough, and Mach 1 Ultradwarf Bermuda greens, including fertility, pest control, and cultural practices
- Collaborate with the Director of Agronomy on all aspects of the $5.5M two-phase golf course restoration, including Phase 2 greens installation and grow-in
- Maintain all required spray licenses and ensure safe, effective chemical and fertilizer applications
- Manage budgets, inventories, equipment maintenance, and vendor relationships
- Ensure compliance with environmental stewardship best practices and Club standards
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in turfgrass management, agronomy, horticulture, or related field (preferred)
- Minimum of 5 years in a senior assistant superintendent or superintendent role at a high-end private club or resort
- Current spray license or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire
- Proven experience with Toro irrigation systems and advanced water management
- Demonstrated success managing golf course construction, renovation, or restoration projects
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff
- Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to delivering top-tier playing conditions