Throughout my life, I have had the opportunity to work in various jobs, each offering its own unique experiences. From my very first job delivering newspapers, where I felt like the richest kid in elementary school with my monthly earnings, to working in grocery stores, chain stores, and even serving as a bank teller, my career path has been diverse. Currently, I am employed as a crane operator at a steel mill, a role that brings its own set of advantages and challenges.
However, none of these positions can compare to the time I spent working on the grounds crew at a golf course. For five years during my high school and college days, I was fortunate enough to have the best summer job imaginable. I spent my summers cutting fairways and greens, changing pins, planting trees and flowers, and raking bunkers, all while enjoying the privilege of playing golf for free. It was an ideal job for me since I practically lived at the golf course during summer days, so I thought I might as well get paid for doing what I loved.
My experience at the golf course extended beyond maintaining the course itself. I also spent a few summers as a “back shop” employee, responsible for cleaning and washing golf carts and clubs, organizing members’ clubs for their rounds the next day, and occasionally driving out on the course to replace golf carts running low on gas. This position also provided perks like complimentary rounds of golf and discounts on food from the course kitchen.
Below, I will highlight the aspects of working in the golf industry that I enjoyed the most. You can consider this a guide if you ever contemplate pursuing a career in this field.
Free Golf
First and foremost, let’s address the most obvious perk of working at a golf course: free golf. As someone who is passionate about golf, having the opportunity to play for free was an incredible advantage. I would often complete my scheduled shift from 6 am to 2 pm and find myself teeing off by 2:30, fully prepared for a round of golf. Without a doubt, this is the aspect I miss the most about working in the golf industry. The ability to seamlessly transition from work to play was truly unbeatable.
Networking
While working in the back shop at a private golf course, I had the valuable opportunity to interact with members on a regular basis as I prepared and cleaned their clubs. Building relationships with these members opened the door to potential future opportunities that could prove beneficial. Furthermore, Golf courses often host various events and tournaments, attracting a diverse range of players. When Working and organizing these events I found opportunities to network with participants, sponsors, and industry professionals. Engaging in conversations during these events can help you expand your professional network and potentially explore new career prospects within the golf industry.
Job Satisfaction
For those who take pride in witnessing the tangible outcomes of their hard work, you’ll easily relate to the following advantage, especially if you’ve ever mowed lawns or been part of a grounds crew. There is an unmatched joy in beholding the greens and fairways after a fresh cut. The perfectly straight line patterns are a sight of pure beauty. Equally gratifying was the task of cutting new hole locations each day. With time, I honed my skills in this area, and after replacing the previous day’s hole with the sod cut out from the new hole, you would never suspect there was a hole there in the first place. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the seamless transformation and the immaculate appearance of the course. Also if you are passionate about golf, working on the grounds crew at a golf course allows you to combine your job with your hobby. Being immersed in the golfing atmosphere, witnessing professional tournaments, and having opportunities to play golf for free during off-hours are significant perks that contribute to job satisfaction. It creates a harmonious blend of work and personal interests, making each day feel less like a job and more like a fulfilling experience.
Peacefulness
Being able to work in the great outdoors is a major perk of the job. Instead of being confined to a desk or an indoor environment, you get to enjoy the fresh air, experience the changing seasons, and be surrounded by nature’s beauty. The tranquil surroundings of a golf course can provide a sense of peace and serenity, making each workday more enjoyable. Although there may be busy periods during tournaments or peak seasons, the overall pace of work at a golf course often tends to be more relaxed and laid-back. The absence of strict deadlines and a more flexible schedule can contribute to a less stressful work environment. This slower pace can create a sense of calm and peace, allowing you to appreciate the present moment and enjoy your surroundings.
In conclusion, my experience working in the golf industry and at a golf course has been overwhelmingly positive, but that’s mainly because I have an intense passion for the game. The only downside was occasionally witnessing others delight in playing golf while I was occupied with work responsibilities. Nonetheless, I hope this provides you with insight into the behind-the-scenes efforts of the dedicated grounds crew and pro shop staff who work diligently to ensure you can enjoy your next round to the fullest. Their hard work often goes unnoticed, so take a moment to appreciate their contributions the next time you tee it up!