Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Golf Assistant

🎯 Role Definition

As a Golf Assistant, you are a pivotal ambassador of the club's brand and a cornerstone of our daily golf operations. You will be instrumental in creating an exceptional, seamless experience for every member and guest from arrival to departure. This dynamic role requires a blend of operational expertise, retail acumen, and superior interpersonal skills. You will work closely with the Head Golf Professional to execute a first-class golf program, manage a bustling pro shop, and uphold the highest standards of service that define our club. This position is perfect for an aspiring golf professional looking to develop a comprehensive skill set in a premier golf environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Golf Cart Attendant
Golf Shop Attendant
Hospitality or High-End Retail Associate

Advancement To:

First Assistant Golf Professional
Head Golf Professional
Director of Golf

Lateral Moves:

Tournament Director
Club Fitting Specialist
Golf Retail Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Expertly manage the daily tee sheet, reservations, and player check-in process using our POS system to ensure a smooth and organized flow of play.
Deliver a world-class welcome to all members and guests, providing clear information on course conditions, daily rules, and club events.
Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of member, corporate, and charity golf tournaments, including preparing scorecards, rule sheets, and on-course signage.
Operate the point-of-sale (POS) system for all transactions, including guest fees, merchandise sales, and tournament entry fees, ensuring accurate cash handling and end-of-day reconciliation.
Drive pro shop revenue through proactive sales, suggestive selling, and maintaining a deep knowledge of our apparel, equipment, and accessories.
Assist with all merchandising functions, including receiving, pricing, and displaying inventory to create an attractive and professional retail environment.
Conduct regular inventory counts and assist the Head Professional with ordering and stock level management to minimize shrinkage and maximize turnover.
Provide on-course player assistance, monitoring pace of play and enforcing club rules and etiquette in a friendly but firm manner to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Oversee the daily operations of the practice facilities, including the driving range and putting greens, ensuring they are well-stocked, clean, and properly set up.
Manage the golf cart fleet, including daily staging, cleaning, minor maintenance checks, and ensuring proper charging and storage procedures are followed.
Provide basic club repair services such as re-gripping clubs and making minor loft/lie adjustments for members and guests.
Act as a knowledgeable resource for the USGA Rules of Golf, confidently interpreting rules and making decisions during general play and tournament competitions.
Communicate effectively with other club departments, including food & beverage and grounds maintenance, to coordinate services for tournaments and daily play.
Assist in conducting golf clinics, junior golf camps, and potentially provide individual lessons under the guidance of the Head Golf Professional.

Secondary Functions

Maintain the pristine appearance and organization of the golf shop, bag room, and surrounding areas at all times.
Respond to member and guest inquiries via phone and email in a timely and professional manner, providing accurate information and booking services.
Support the marketing of golf programs and events through in-person promotion and potentially contributing to club newsletters or social media.
Assist with the management of the club's handicap system, ensuring player scores are posted correctly and revisions are managed according to USGA guidelines.
Actively participate in departmental meetings and staff training sessions to stay current on club policies and enhance professional skills.
Open and close the golf shop and related facilities according to established procedures, ensuring all assets are secure.
Handle special orders for members and corporate clients, managing the process from order placement with vendors to notifying the customer upon arrival.
Uphold and enforce all club policies and procedures consistently and professionally, ensuring a safe and orderly environment.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency with golf-specific Point-of-Sale (POS) systems (e.g., ForeTees, Jonas, Clubessential).
Experience with golf tournament management software, particularly Golf Genius.
Comprehensive knowledge of the USGA Rules of Golf and the World Handicap System.
Skills in basic club repair, including re-gripping, shaft work, and loft/lie adjustments.
Competency in retail inventory management and visual merchandising techniques.

Soft Skills

Exceptional interpersonal and customer service skills with a genuine passion for creating a welcoming environment.
Strong verbal and written communication abilities, capable of interacting professionally with members, guests, and staff.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced setting.
A proactive problem-solver with the ability to handle challenging situations and resolve conflicts with diplomacy and grace.
Professional demeanor, positive attitude, and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's Degree and/or active enrollment in the PGA/LPGA Associate Program.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Professional Golf Management (PGM)
Hospitality Management
Business Administration
Sports Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

1-3 years of experience in a golf club, resort, or high-end customer service environment.

Preferred:

2+ years of experience at a private or semi-private golf facility with direct involvement in tournament operations and pro shop retail.
Experience working towards or having obtained PGA/LPGA membership.