Golf Course Superintendent at Purple Hawk Country Club – Cambridge, MN    https://www.purplehawk.com/

Established in 1969, Purple Hawk Country Club is a member-owned, semi-private golf course located just 3.5 miles north of Cambridge, MN. Recognized by Minnesota Golf Magazine as “one of the best-kept secrets in the north metro,” the course features four sets of tees ranging from 6,711 yards (Blue) to 5,390 yards (Red), providing an enjoyable and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.  Our facilities include a full-service Pro Shop with in-house club repair, a two-tier driving range, practice bunker, and two practice greens. In 2025, Purple Hawk proudly opened a new state-of-the-art clubhouse featuring modern amenities, upgraded food and beverage spaces, and event facilities designed to enhance both member and guest experiences. The club takes pride in its welcoming culture, strong member engagement, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Position Summary

The Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for the overall leadership, management, maintenance, and presentation of the golf course and associated grounds. This role ensures the course is maintained to high agronomic, environmental, and safety standards while overseeing staff, budgets, equipment, and regulatory compliance.

The Superintendent reports directly to the Board and works collaboratively with the Head Golf Professional to support club objectives and deliver a consistently high-quality golf experience for members and guests.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Course & Grounds Management

• Plan, coordinate, and execute all aspects of golf course maintenance, including turfgrass management, irrigation, fertilization, mowing, aeration, tree management, and pest control.
• Oversee daily maintenance activities such as bunker preparation and tee and green care.
• Establish and maintain course conditions that meet or exceed golfer expectations while accounting for seasonal and environmental conditions.
• Monitor weather patterns and adjust maintenance plans accordingly.
• Oversee maintenance of practice facilities, landscaping, parking areas, cart paths, and all structures on the grounds, including the clubhouse.
• Manage and maintain a high-functioning irrigation system, including soil moisture monitoring, runtime adjustments, and preventative maintenance.
• Develop and implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to control weeds, insects, and disease.

 Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate maintenance staff.
• Develop clear role descriptions, performance expectations, and accountability standards.
• Assign daily work plans and adjust priorities as conditions require.
• Foster a positive, respectful, and safety-focused work environment.
• Develop staff skills through ongoing training and mentoring.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, OSHA requirements, and club policies.

Budgeting & Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual operating and capital budgets for the maintenance department.
• Control expenses while maintaining high course quality standards.
• Recommend, plan, and manage execution of capital improvements, equipment purchases, and course enhancements.
• Track inventory and manage vendor and supplier relationships.

 Equipment & Facilities Management

• Oversee maintenance, repair, and replacement of all golf course equipment.
• Ensure proper use, storage, and safe operation of all machinery and tools.
• Coordinate equipment purchases and service contracts.

 Environmental Stewardship & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local environmental and safety regulations, including OSHA requirements.
• Implement best management practices for water conservation, chemical use, and sustainability.
• Maintain all required licenses, permits, and regulatory records.
• Maintain accurate records for chemical applications, irrigation usage, and maintenance schedules.

 Communication & Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the Head Golf Professional and Board of Directors.
• Communicate course conditions, maintenance plans, and major projects in a clear and timely manner.
• Participate in board and committee meetings and contribute to long-term course planning and strategy.

Qualifications Required

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Golf Course Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent with demonstrated readiness to assume a lead role.
• Strong knowledge of turfgrass species, irrigation systems, and agronomic best practices.
• Pesticide applicator license (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe).
• Proven leadership, staff management, and organizational skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Valid driver’s license.

 Preferred

• Degree or certification in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience managing golf courses in a similar climate or region.
• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives and water conservation programs.
• Experience leading capital improvement projects or course renovations.
• Active membership or involvement in professional associations such as the GCSAA