Director of Grounds

Director of Grounds – Essex County Club Essex County Club Salary Details: Essex County Club offers competitive compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Compensation: $175,000 – $225,000 plus annual performance bonus; Based on Experience Benefits may include: Competitive base salary Health and dental insurance Retirement plan Paid time off Professional development and continuing education Industry association membership and educational opportunities Uniforms and other position-related benefits

Preferred Education: BA/BS/Undergraduate

Type: Full Time

Level: Experienced

Categories:

Director of Agronomy

Director of Golf

Certifications/Certificates:

Assistant Superintendent Certificate Series

CTEM – Certified Turf Equipment Manager

Class A

EMCP – Equipment Management Certificate Program

IPM Exam

Position Overview The Director of Grounds will have overall responsibility for the health, conditioning, presentation, and maintenance of the golf course, tennis facilities and surrounding grounds. This includes agronomic planning, turf management, irrigation, water management, pest and disease control, equipment management, budgeting, staffing, capital planning, and project execution.

The Director of Grounds will report to the Grounds Chair and work closely with the General Manager, Grounds Committee, Golf Professional, Tennis Professional, Board leadership, and other department heads to establish and execute both short- and long-term strategies for the golf course, tennis courts and grounds.

Premier private club located on Boston’s North Shore

One of the top Tennis, Paddle and Pickle facilities in New England

Approximately 21,000 annual rounds

Grounds staff of approximately 28 employees

Annual agronomy/grounds operating budget of approximately $2.6m

Annual capital budget of approximately $360k

Modern John Deere and Toro equipment fleet

Grass and Clay tennis courts and additional club grounds requiring year-round maintenance

Significant long-term capital and course improvement initiatives underway

Key Responsibilities Agronomic Planning & Turf Management

Develop and execute a comprehensive agronomic program designed to maintain exceptional playing conditions and presentation throughout the golf and tennis season.

Oversee the health and performance of all tennis facilities, greens, tees, fairways, roughs, native areas, bunkers, landscaping, and other maintained turf areas.

Develop annual fertility, cultural practices, aerification, topdressing, overseeding, pest management, and disease prevention programs.

Monitor soil, plant, and turf health and adjust agronomic practices based on weather, course conditions, play, and seasonal requirements.

Develop and implement comprehensive water management and irrigation strategies.

Maintain and continually improve the health and playing characteristics of the golf course and tennis facilities while preserving the historic character and architectural intent.

Implement environmentally responsible practices, including water conservation, integrated pest management, soil health initiatives, and responsible chemical use.

Leadership, Staffing & Team Development

Lead, mentor, and develop a highly skilled and service-oriented grounds team.

Recruit, train, schedule, and evaluate department employees.

Establish clear expectations and accountability while fostering a positive, professional, and team-oriented culture.

Develop training programs covering agronomic practices, equipment operation, safety, chemical application, and project execution.

Manage staffing levels and seasonal labor requirements to ensure the department is appropriately resourced throughout the year.

Create an environment where employees take pride in their work and consistently pursue excellence.

Budget & Financial Management

Develop and manage the annual grounds operating budget in partnership with club leadership and Controller.

Develop and oversee the department’s annual capital budget and long-range capital plan.

Effectively manage labor, materials, chemicals, equipment, utilities, and other operating expenses.

Evaluate equipment replacement needs and develop long-term fleet management strategies.

Maintain appropriate purchasing controls and relationships with vendors and suppliers.

Ensure department operations remain within approved budgets while maintaining the highest possible standards.

Capital Projects & Project Management Essex County Club has a significant long-term vision for the golf course and grounds. The Superintendent will play a central role in planning and executing future improvements and infrastructure projects related to both golf and racquets facilities.

Responsibilities will include:

Partner with club leadership, the Grounds Committee, architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors on course improvement projects.

Lead the planning and execution of capital projects affecting the go