Director of Agronomy

About the role

Atlantic Fields, a part of Discovery Land Company, is seeking a Director of Agronomy to join the Golf Maintenance - Agronomy Department. The role will be based at Atlantic Fields, located outside of Hobe Sound, FL.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive agronomic programs to maintain high-quality turf conditions throughout the golf course, including fairways, greens, tees, and roughs.
• Manage and coordinate all aspects of turfgrass maintenance operations, including fertilization, irrigation, pest and disease control, and aeration.
• Assists with the operation and maintenance of all grounds for the project including landscape, grounds and common areas.
• Develops and maintains drainage, irrigation and watering systems.
• Manages all personnel assigned to department.
• Coaches the Golf Course Superintendent and helps lead a team of golf course maintenance and landscapers, providing guidance, training, and support to ensure the execution of agronomic practices in accordance with industry standards and best practices.
• Plans professional development and training activities for subordinates.
• Supervises all planting, fertilizing and care of turf, plants, shrubs, trees and other facilities on the golf course.
• Maintains turf health and identifies issues promptly, implementing corrective measures to address any concerns and minimize turfgrass stress.
• Prepares annual budget for department.
• Collaborates with golf course management to establish and execute long-term maintenance plans, budgeting, and capital improvement projects.
• Oversees equipment maintenance programs to ensure proper functioning and longevity of turf care machinery and irrigation systems.
• Implements and enforces safety protocols and best practices to ensure a safe working environment for staff and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Reviews and analyzes department reports and establishes KPI’s to optimize operations.
• Stays informed about advancements in agronomic research, technology, and industry trends, incorporating innovative practices to enhance turf quality and sustainability.
• Develops and maintains relationships with vendors, suppliers, and industry professionals to source quality products, equipment, and services.
• Collaborates with regulatory agencies, environmental organizations, and community stakeholders to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable land management practices.
• Attends turf conferences, equipment shows, workshops and other educational programs to maintain a current knowledge of technical and turf innovations and changes that could affect the department’s operations.
• Leads staff meetings and attends operations meetings.
• Communicates as necessary with golf, fitness and tennis professionals to discuss conditions of facilities, maintenance plans and scheduled events.
• Keeps members informed about current and future maintenance activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy or Turfgrass Management.
• Minimum of 10 years of golf course management experience with a proven track record of success in turfgrass maintenance and course conditioning, preferably within a similar upscale, luxury environment.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in golf course agronomy management.
• Extensive knowledge of turfgrass species, soil science, irrigation systems, pest and disease management, and agronomic best practices.
• Proficiency in budgeting, planning, and project management, with the ability to prioritize tasks and allocate resources effectively.

Additional Requirements

• Positive attitude, professional demeanor, and exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to deliver service to members, guests, and team members.
• Ability to work flexible work hours/schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to stay calm and focused during the busiest of times.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English; additional languages preferred.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the position including, but not limited to, working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, standing, walking, and moving for periods of greater than eight (8) hours, and lifting and carrying items sometimes greater than fifty (50) pounds.