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Greenkeeper

Do you want to become a Greenkeeper? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Greenkeepers are responsible for the maintenance and care of golf courses. Their understanding of turf science is important to the overall performance and enjoyment of club members and paying guests.

They maintain the soil and turf, and prepare the fairways, greens and tees. Their tasks are likely to include some or all of the following:

• dressing and treating grass to encourage the right growth
• raking and clearing sand bunkers
• removal of dew and debris
• repairing wear and tear caused by golfers and animals
• dealing with drainage problems
• applying chemicals or using environmentally friendly treatments to control weeds, fungal diseases and pests
• maintaining machinery and tools.

Greenkeepers are likely to work between 32 and 45 hours a week, but this varies according to the season. In summer a greenkeeper may start work at 6am. They work outdoors in most weather conditions.

The starting salary for an apprentice greenkeeper is around £7,800, rising to £9,360 for someone newly qualified. Salaries may rise to more than £40,000 for senior greenkeepers working on the most prestigious courses.

A greenkeeper should:

• be self-motivated and able to work on their own initiative
• understand the science of botany and how this affects a playing surface
• be comfortable driving and operating machinery
• have an interest in plants and gardening
• be interested in golf.

Greenkeepers can work either for private golf courses or local authority leisure departments. Some hotels with golf courses employ greenkeepers. Entry into this work is competitive. Apprenticeships for young people are available.

Although no formal qualifications are needed to become a greenkeeper, experience in horticulture, agriculture and a good understanding of golf would be useful. The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association and the Institute of Groundsmanship offer a range of certificates and diplomas. Training is usually provided on the job. Courses are also available for ongoing professional development and for those wishing to specialise in a certain area of the sports turf sector. NVQs/SVQs are available from Levels 1 to 4.

Once qualified, promotion prospects are good. Some move into supervisory positions or become course managers. An understanding of the techniques and science of different playing surfaces can lead to employment opportunities in other sports.

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