About the Role
Position & Program OverviewThe Assistant in Training (AIT) is a structured, two-facility internship experience created through a partnership between Sand Valley and 21 Golf Club. This highly selective program is designed for emerging agronomy professionals pursuing long-term leadership careers in golf course management. Through hands-on responsibility and direct mentorship, the AIT supports daily golf course operations while building technical agronomy expertise, leadership capability, and operational judgment across two distinct golf environments.Program TimelinePhase 1 - The Lido at Sand Valley | Nekoosa, WILate March or early April through mid-October 2027Transition WeekOne week off for travel to South CarolinaPhase 2 - 21 Golf Club | Aiken, South CarolinaApproximately six months, concluding in April 2028Employment, compensation, and benefits are administered separately for each portion of the program and are subject to the policies of the employing entity.Phase 1 - The Lido at Sand ValleyThe Lido at Sand Valley is a championship links-style golf course inspired by the original Lido Club and maintained at the highest standard within a destination resort environment.Primary Responsibilities:
Assist with daily planning, staffing schedules, and execution of maintenance activitiesPerform course setup, mowing, rolling, bunker care, and irrigation operationTrain, guide, and supervise seasonal team members with a focus on quality and safetySupport irrigation, drainage, water management, and turf health programsAssist with fertilizer, aeration, and integrated pest management applicationsParticipate in course construction, renovation, and specialty maintenance projectsAssist with equipment operation, maintenance, and preventative careSupport purchasing, inventory management, and operational recordkeepingServe in the Superintendent’s capacity during absences, as assignedPhase 2 - 21 Golf Club21 Golf Club is a private golf club located in Aiken, South Carolina, offering a distinct agronomic environment and operational approach within a member-focused setting.Primary Responsibilities:
Assist the Director of Agronomy with daily course and facility managementSupport crew scheduling, operational procedures, and daily course setupAssist with irrigation scheduling and system adjustments to maximize water efficiencyApply best management practices to meet course conditioning and detail standardsAssist with fertilizer, plant protectant, and aerification programsCoordinate with the Equipment Manager on mowing schedules, tournaments, and equipment needsAssist with construction projects, renovations, and special initiativesMaintain chemical, fertilizer, and application recordsParticipate in budgeting discussions and operational planningActively engage in on-the-job learning by asking questions, applying instruction, and demonstrating initiativeQualificationsHigh school diploma requiredCertificate, Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or current enrollment in an accredited turfgrass or related program preferredPrevious golf course maintenance experience preferredStrong interest in building a long-term career in golf course managementWorking knowledge of agronomy, irrigation, and course maintenance practices, or a strong desire to learnAbility to understand and follow instructions, policies, and proceduresGeneral understanding of motorized golf course equipmentDemonstrated professionalism, reliability, and strong work ethicPlaying knowledge of golf preferred but not requiredFlexible schedule including early mornings, weekends, and holidaysWillingness to relocate temporarily as part of a two-facility programWorking ConditionsCombination of indoor and outdoor workExposure to extreme heat, humidity, and cold weatherOvertime as required based on operational needsPhysical requirements include standing, walking, bending, lifting, and operating equipment