Job Description:
The Precision Turf Management Specialist will lead our efforts to optimize golf course maintenance through the strategic implementation and management of advanced technologies. This role is centered around precision turf management and continuous innovation to enhance the beauty and playability of our course. This includes leveraging autonomous and robotic mowers, sophisticated smart irrigation systems, and drones for data collection, analysis, and application. This position requires a proactive individual who is passionate about technology and its potential to transform golf course management.
Addressing the challenges inherent in traditional golf course maintenance requires an innovative approach that maximizes efficiency while minimizing costs. This role is key to implementing that innovative approach.
Key Responsibilities:
- Autonomous Mower Management: Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of autonomous mowing equipment, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. This includes scheduling, troubleshooting, and optimizing mowing patterns.
- Drone Technology Integration: Utilize drone technology to capture aerial imagery, analyze turf health, assess course conditions, identify areas needing attention, and generate data-driven insights for informed decision-making. This will also include applications for spraying, seeding and fertilizing.
- Smart Irrigation Systems: Manage and program advanced irrigation systems, monitor water usage, analyze weather data, and optimize irrigation schedules to promote healthy turf while conserving resources. This includes using data to optimize maintenance strategies, and improve turf conditions.
- Technology Evaluation and Implementation: Research and evaluate emerging technologies related to turf management. Lead the implementation of promising technologies, conduct pilot programs, and ensure seamless integration into existing operations.
- System Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Perform preventative maintenance on all technology systems, troubleshoot technical issues, diagnose problems remotely when possible, and coordinate repairs as needed. Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities.
- Staff Training and Collaboration: Train golf course maintenance staff on the use of new technologies, data interpretation, and best practices for precision turf management. Collaborate closely with the groundskeeping team to ensure effective integration of technology into daily operations and workflows.
- Sustainability Focus: Implement practices that promote environmental sustainability, such as efficient water usage, reduced chemical applications (through precise application), and minimizing equipment emissions, through the use of technology.
Qualifications:
- Strong understanding of turfgrass management principles and best practices.
- Demonstrated experience with autonomous mowing equipment, drone operation (Part 107 certification preferred), and smart irrigation systems.
- Proficiency in data analysis, interpretation, and reporting. Experience with GIS software is a plus.
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills related to technical systems.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to train and work collaboratively with others.
- Passion for exploring and implementing new technologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
- Commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and resource conservation.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
- Valid driver's license.
Bonus Points:
- Experience with specific turf management software or hardware.
- Knowledge of golf course operations and maintenance practices.
- Experience with sensor technology (soil moisture, weather stations, etc.).
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment (up to 50 lbs).
- Ability to walk or stand for extended periods.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off.
- Retirement savings plan.
- Opportunities for professional development.
About Storm King Golf Course (soft opening in June 2025):
Storm King Golf Course, with its awe-inspiring views of Storm King Mountain and the Catskills, offers a golfing experience like no other. Storm King's nine holes have been transformed into a reimagined golfer's journey. With five distinct 9-hole routings and over 30 unique golf holes ranging from 135 to 825 yards, golfers can experience a rolling hills par 36 experience spanning 2900-3500 yards.
Storm King is a leader in golf course sustainability, with close to 75% of the course now being mowed with Husqvarna autonomous mowers. Storm King has a commitment to deploy the latest technology to help maintain the course’s beauty, playability, and the environment of our pristine setting in the Hudson Highlands.
Storm King is committed to making golf accessible to everyone through unified sports. The Hudson Valley Golf Foundation, which operates the golf course, will host clinics and tournaments for underserved communities, including inner-city kids, adaptive golfers, wounded military veterans, and individuals with intellectual disabilities.
