Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Golf Starter

🎯 Role Definition

The Golf Starter is the primary ambassador for the golf experience at our club. This individual is responsible for the orderly and timely start of play from the first tee, ensuring that all golfers begin their round in a pleasant and well-informed manner. You will be a key player in managing the flow of the course, enforcing club rules, and providing five-star customer service to create a memorable day for every player. This position requires a combination of logistical coordination, rule enforcement, and exceptional interpersonal skills.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Guest Services Associate
Hospitality Roles (e.g., Valet, Bellperson)
Caddie or other on-course roles

Advancement To:

Player Assistant / Course Ranger
Golf Operations Supervisor
Assistant Golf Professional

Lateral Moves:

Pro Shop Attendant
Tournament Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Warmly greet and welcome all members, guests, and tournament players, establishing a positive and professional rapport from the moment they arrive at the first tee.
Meticulously manage the daily tee sheet using our golf management software, confirming reservations, checking in players, and collecting receipts or verifying memberships.
Clearly and concisely communicate course conditions, daily rules of play, cart-path regulations, and any special instructions to each group before they begin their round.
Orchestrate the flow of play by ensuring all groups start at their scheduled tee time, maintaining an appropriate interval between groups to promote a consistent pace of play across the course.
Maintain constant and clear communication with the Pro Shop, Player Assistants, and other golf operations staff via a two-way radio to report on pace of play and any on-course issues.
Professionally announce groups to the tee, creating a structured and official start to the golfing experience for all players.
Ensure all golf carts are clean, properly stocked with scorecards, pencils, and sand, and are assigned correctly to groups as they begin their round.
Serve as a primary point of information, providing accurate details regarding course layout, yardage, and club facilities and amenities.
Diplomatically enforce all club policies, including dress code, footwear regulations, and pace of play expectations, in a firm but friendly manner.
Keep the starter's podium, first tee, and surrounding practice areas impeccably clean, organized, and well-stocked with necessary supplies.
Assist the professional staff in the setup and execution of tournaments, corporate outings, and special events, ensuring a smooth and timely start for all participants.
Efficiently manage the standby or "walk-on" list, communicating wait times accurately and accommodating players as openings become available.

Secondary Functions

Diligently record player information, cart numbers, and start times to provide accurate data for operational analysis and tracking.
Act as a central communication point for on-course emergencies or situations requiring management attention, relaying information swiftly and accurately.
Proactively engage with golfers waiting to tee off, answering questions and providing assistance to enhance their overall experience and build positive relationships.
Monitor play on the finishing hole to anticipate any potential pace of play issues or backups at the first tee, adjusting the flow as needed.
Monitor weather conditions closely and communicate any potential safety warnings, such as lightning, to players and management according to club protocol.
Assist with the staging, maintenance, and rotation of the golf cart fleet during peak and off-peak times to ensure operational readiness.
Provide players with recommendations on appropriate tee selection based on their handicap or stated skill level to ensure an enjoyable and challenging round.
Report any observed damage to the course, equipment, or facilities to the appropriate department head for prompt resolution.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in using tee sheet management software (e.g., ForeTees, Jonas, Clubessential).
Comprehensive knowledge of USGA rules of golf, course etiquette, and various game formats.
Ability to safely and efficiently operate a golf cart.
Clear and professional communication skills using a two-way radio system.
Basic computer proficiency for data entry and reservation system management.
Understanding of pace of play schedules and time-par management.

Soft Skills

Exceptional interpersonal and customer service skills with a friendly, outgoing personality.
Strong verbal communication skills; ability to speak clearly and confidently to individuals and groups.
Excellent organizational and time-management abilities, especially under pressure.
Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to handle disputes and inquiries calmly and effectively.
A high degree of professionalism, punctuality, and reliability.
Meticulous attention to detail in managing schedules and maintaining a pristine work area.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a larger golf operations team.
A proactive and self-motivated work ethic.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree or certification in Hospitality, Business, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Hospitality Management
Sports Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years in a customer-facing role, preferably in a high-end service environment.

Preferred: Previous experience working at a private country club, golf resort, or upscale daily-fee course is highly desirable. A strong personal interest and passion for the game of golf is a significant plus.