Greenkeeper

A greenkeeper is responsible for the maintenance, care and overall appearance of a golf course. As part of a team they are expected to maintain a good playing surface and to ensure that the course offers a consistent challenge and enjoyable experience for golfers.

Their work may include:

• mowing turf using tractors, ride-on machines and specialist hand mowers
• topdressing and treating turf to encourage consistent playing surfaces
• renovating and maintaining bunkers
• removing early morning dew and debris from the greens
• repairing wear and tear caused by golfers and animals.

Working hours may be longer in spring and summer. There may be early starts. Greenkeepers work outdoors in all weather conditions. Greenkeeping is a physically demanding role, involving lifting and bending. Allergies such as hay fever, could make this job difficult.

Salaries may range from £10,000 to more than £44,000 a year.

A greenkeeper needs:

• knowledge of turf and how to maintain it
• to be able to use tools and equipment
• health and safety awareness
• practical skills
• a keen interest in golf and working outdoors.

Greenkeepers work for private golf courses, local authority leisure departments, hotels with golf facilities and ground maintenance contractors. Although entry is competitive, opportunities are available throughout the UK.

No formal qualifications are needed, but experience in horticulture or agriculture and a good understanding of golf may be an advantage.

A number of relevant courses are available, ranging from work-based qualifications to college-based certificates and postgraduate degrees. The Diploma in environmental and land-based studies may relevant. It may also be possible to enter this career through an Apprenticeship No formal qualifications are needed, but experience in horticulture or agriculture and a good understanding of golf may be an advantage.

Training is provided on the job, often working towards a qualification in sports and amenity turf maintenance, such as a Diploma in work-based greenkeeping. Further qualifications can help to prepare greenkeepers for promotion to management positions, for example, the Level 3 Advanced National Certificate in sports and amenity turf management.

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) also operates a Master Greenkeeper Certificate Scheme, recognising qualifications, skills and experience in golf course management.

Greenkeepers with suitable qualifications and experience can move into supervisory positions and then become course managers. There may be opportunities to work overseas.

Further details