Golf Course Superintendent: Plum Brook Country Club

Location: Sandusky, Ohio

Plum Brook Country Club, a private, member-owned club with a rich tradition dating back

to 1914, invites highly qualified and dedicated professionals to apply for the position of Golf Course Superintendent. This is a unique opportunity to oversee a historic and revered course known for its meticulous conditioning and challenging playability.

About Plum Brook Country Club

Plum Brook Country Club began as the Sandusky Golf Club in 1914 and moved to its present location in 1916, adopting the name Plum Brook. Our historic 18-hole, par-71 course was originally designed by famed architect Tom Bendelow ("The Johnny Appleseed of American Golf") and later improved by Arthur Hills in 1994.

The course is widely regarded as one of the finest in Northern Ohio, distinguished by its rolling terrain (unique for the area), beautifully maintained tree-lined fairways, and famously fast greens. Though not long at approximately 6,344 yards from the championship tees, its "sporty" design offers a challenging and rewarding experience for all skill levels.

In addition to golf, the club boasts a full range of amenities including:

• Excellent practice facilities (driving range, two putting greens, and a short game area).
• Fine and casual dining in the Clubhouse.
• A heated outdoor swimming pool and "Aqua Bar" complex.
• Spacious event and banquet facilities.

Plum Brook is a true family club, committed to providing an exceptional experience for its members.

About Sandusky, Ohio: The Heart of the North Coast

Sandusky is a vibrant community nestled on the beautiful southern shore of Lake Erie and is frequently voted one of the "Best Coastal Small Towns in America." This region, known as the "Shores & Islands," is a premier summer destination, famous for:

• Being home to Cedar Point, one of the world's best amusement parks.
• Easy access to the Lake Erie Islands (Put-in-Bay, Kelleys Island).
• An expanding downtown district with local restaurants, breweries, and shops.

Sandusky offers a desirable quality of life with a small-town feel, strong sense of community, and the amenities of a bustling resort area, all situated conveniently between the major metropolitan areas of Cleveland and Toledo.

Position Summary and Key Responsibilities

The Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for the overall maintenance, management, and long-term health of the entire golf course and club grounds. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a blend of technical expertise, administrative skill, and exceptional interpersonal abilities.

Agronomic Management

• Develop, implement, and oversee all comprehensive agronomic programs for the course, including turfgrass management, pest and disease control, and fertilization.
• Manage and maintain the club's irrigation system, ensuring optimal water management practices.
• Ensure the course is consistently conditioned to the highest standards, focusing on the quality and speed of greens, tees, and fairways.
• Oversee all landscaping, natural areas, and grounds maintenance for the entire club property.

Leadership and Administration

• Recruit, train, supervise, and mentor the maintenance staff, fostering a positive, safety-first, and high-performance work environment.
• Prepare and manage the annual maintenance budget, controlling expenses, managing inventory, and overseeing capital improvement projects.
• Maintain accurate records for chemical applications, employee hours, and equipment maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., OSHA, pesticide handling).

Collaboration and Communication

• Report directly to the Board of Directors, providing regular updates on course conditions, maintenance plans, and financial performance.
• Work closely with the Head Golf Professional and other club staff to ensure seamless course operations and an outstanding member experience.
• Engage with the membership professionally and diplomatically, addressing concerns and communicating maintenance activities transparently.

Qualifications and Compensation

Required Qualifications

• A degree or certification in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Proven experience as a Golf Course Superintendent or a highly qualified Assistant Superintendent at a comparable facility.

• Expert knowledge of turfgrass cultural practices, including soil science, irrigation systems, and pest management.
• Valid state pesticide applicator's license (or ability to obtain one quickly).
• Strong leadership, organizational, and budget management skills.

Compensation and Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off (vacation, personal days, and holidays).
• Support for professional development, including GCSAA membership dues and conference attendance.
• Clubhouse privileges, golf access, and use of a golf cart

PLEASE EMAIL RESUMES TO:  aidanpmcdonnell@gmail.com