Golf Course Jobs (& How To Get One!)

Updated January 13, 2023
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    Man working a golf course job
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If you love the game of golf, perhaps you’d like to work in the golf industry. Scoring a golf course job is not only fun, but it can come with discounted golf and other perks. Here are some golf course jobs and how to get one.

Golf Course Jobs

As with all jobs, working at a golf course has its pros and cons.

Pros:

  • Discounted golf
  • Discount in the pro shop
  • Relationships with other courses
  • Work with friends
  • Work outside, fresh air

Cons:

  • Weekend work
  • Early morning shifts
  • Labor intensive

Here are some of the most common positions you’ll find around a golf course:

  • Pro Shop Staff
  • Beverage Cart
  • Cart Attendant
  • Starter
  • Ranger
  • Superintendent
  • Grounds Crew
  • Caddy
  • General Manager
  • Head Professional
  • Assistant Professional
  • Event Manager
  • Membership Sales
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Pro Shop Staff

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Inside the pro shop, the staff handles a multitude of tasks from booking tee times to running the register. At most golf courses, the pro shop staff is also responsible for stocking the pro shop with product.

This position could be a good fit if you like interacting with virtually every golfer who tees it up at the course.

Beverage Cart

Golf Beverage cart operator
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The beverage cart operator drives around the golf course and sells beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) as well as snacks to golfers during their round.

If you like being outdoors, are good at quick banter, and can tolerate the spectrum of golfer emotions, you might be a good fit for this position.

Cart Attendant

Ever wonder what happens to your golf cart after your round? A cart attendant cleans it inside and out and gets it ready for the next group to use. They are also responsible for charging the carts (if electric) or fueling them up (if gas powered).

If you mostly like to avoid interactions with golfers, and like the perk of small tips that can really add up throughout a day, consider pursuing a position as a cart attendant.

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Starter

This position gets players started on the course. They usually collect receipts, take the number of your golf cart, and let you know any pertinent course information for the day. The starter is also responsible for communicating pace of play expectations.

The starter can really set the tone for a golfer's experience at the course on any given day, so if you're good a creating a light, fun atmosphere, you might make a good starter.

Ranger

The ranger is essentially the on-course enforcer. Rangers enforce pace of play, local rules, and etiquette, and handle any on-course issues.

As a ranger, you spend most of your time on the golf course, typically in a cart. This position is best for someone who doesn’t mind keeping order and voicing themselves.

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Superintendent

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A golf course Superintendent is one of the unsung heroes of a golf course operation. This person typically has a degree and background in golf course management and turf science. They oversee all aspects of the golf course’s conditions, from mowing to hazards to pin placement.

RELATED: Finding a Golf Course Management Degree That's Right for You

Grounds Crew

Multiple positions sit under the superintendent and make up the course’s grounds crew. They mow, plant flowers, trim bushes, rake bunkers, place tee markers, and much more.

Caddy

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    Chris Ryan
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A caddy is a great position to start in the golf industry as a youngster. Being a caddy is a great way to get to know members, learn the golf course and the game, and earn tips along the way. If you become a reputable looper, members will request your services.

RELATED: How to Be a Good Caddy

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General Manager

Most golf courses have a General Manger or Director of Golf. This is the highest position at a golf course and usually oversees all staff related to the golf side of business. Responsible for profits and loss, as well as daily operations, this position usually requires a degree in business management or golf course management, and has previous experience in a similar position within a golf course setting.

Head Professional

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A head golf professional is usually a certified PGA or LPGA instructor. They give lessons, lead golf clinics, and oversee other golf professionals on staff.

RELATED: How to Become a PGA Class A Member

Event Manager

Most golf courses that have banquet facilities employ an event manager. This person sells golf outings, weddings, and other gatherings. They are responsible for making sure events run smoothly from a golf and food and beverage standpoint.

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Membership Sales

Private clubs employ a Membership Sales position, who is in charge of selling memberships to individuals looking to join. They usually give a lot of tours of their facilities and golf course to prospective buyers. This position typically needs to cater to existing members as well.

How To Get a Golf Course Job

Here are several places for you to search for your next golf course job.

Be Willing to Start Small

A great way to get into golf course work is by starting as a cart attendant or grounds crew team member. This will allow you to learn how the course operates, network with course managers, and move up the ladder.

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Play the Game

It sounds silly, but the more that you can speak to the game, the more a potential hiring manager will feel you’re suited for a golf course position.

Have a Friend

See if someone you know is already working at a local golf course. If so, this is a great way to get started and you get to work around people you know.

Show Your Personality

Working at a golf course, whether you’re in the pro shop or driving a beverage cart, requires a friendly approach. After all, it’s the service industry and customer service. The more approachable and friendly you are, the better off you’ll be.

Be Available

Golf courses have early morning shifts and closing shifts. Many people who work in the golf industry will tell you, "If it's light outside, you're working."

The more you’re available to work, the more golf course managers will be able to schedule you and give you opportunities to work.

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You’re Hired

If you follow our guide, you’ll be well on your way to working at a golf course and making the most of your opportunity to work in one of the most fun and rewarding industries. Bonus points for free golf!