Head Greenkeeper

Yesgolfing; Ashton; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

BIGGA membership paid

Club pension scheme

Staff uniform

Playing privileges

Job summary

Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club is seeking an experienced Head Greenkeeper to oversee the presentation, maintenance and strategic development of the course and practice facilities. You will report to the General Manager and lead a small team, balancing aesthetics with sustainable turf management practices.

The role requires at least 5 years in greenkeeping with supervisory experience, strong knowledge of modern turf machinery, irrigation, and course preparation, plus safety and COSHH compliance.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in Sports Turf Management (essential)
• PA1, PA2, PA6 spraying certificates held
• Chainsaw qualifications advantageous
• Experience as Head Greenkeeper or Course Manager preferred
• Strong leadership and communication to manage a small team

Responsibilities

• Lead the greenkeeping team and manage day-to-day course operations
• Oversee maintenance, agronomy, and irrigation planning
• Manage budgets for course maintenance and machinery
• Drive course improvements including drainage and bunker projects
• Ensure H&S compliance and COSHH adherence

Skills

Team leadership

Turf machinery

Irrigation systems

Course preparation

Health & Safety

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Sports Turf Management

PA1 spraying certificate

PA2 spraying certificate

PA6 spraying certificate

Chainsaw qualifications

Tools

Nursery/operational equipment knowledge

Job description

Full Time

Employers Name: Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club

Location: Garswood Park, Ashton in Makerfield, Wigan, Lancashire, England, WN4 0YT

Description

Founded in 1902, Ashton-in-Makerfield is a Private Members Golf Club with over 500 Members set in 132 acres of a beautiful parkland golf course. The Club is seeking an experienced Head Greenkeeper to take control of the day-to-day operations.

This is a key appointment central to our business plan of providing a quality golfing experience to all our members and visitors. Applicants should have at least 5 years green keeping experience with some years in a supervisory role, together with excellent technical knowledge and the ability to achieve the highest standards of course management.

The successful applicant will be required to lead and motivate a small team, possess Health & Safety knowledge, budget experience, planning skills and a passion for presenting an aesthetically pleasing product.

Applicants should ideally have experience of the maintenance of machinery, irrigation systems and possess the appropriate spraying certificates.

The Role

As Head Greenkeeper, you will take full operational responsibility for the presentation, maintenance, and strategic development of the golf course and practice facilities. Reporting directly to the General Manager, you will ensure the course is managed to the highest standard while balancing environmental sustainability and modern turf management practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Course Preparation: Manage the daily preparation and long-term maintenance of the course to ensure premier playing conditions
• Team Leadership: Lead, motivate, and develop the greenkeeping team, fostering a culture of pride, attention to detail, and safe working practices
• Agronomy & Planning: Implement robust agronomic programmes (aeration, nutrition, overseeding, and water management) for our Parkland Golf Course
• Budgetary Management: Prepare, manage, and work within the annual course maintenance and machinery budgets
• Project Management: Oversee key course improvement projects, bunker construction, and drainage enhancements
• H&S Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to all health and safety, COSHH, and environmental regulations

What We Are Looking For

• Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Sports Turf Management (or equivalent) is essential
• Certifications: Valid PA1, PA2, and PA6 spraying certificates, alongside chainsaw qualifications
• Experience: A proven track record as a Head Greenkeeper, Course Manager, or a strong Deputy looking to take the next step, ideally within a high-standard 18-hole facility
• Skills: Exceptional knowledge of modern turf machinery, automated irrigation systems, and course preparation
• Leadership: Strong communication skills to effectively manage a team and provide regular, professional updates to the Club’s management and committees

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Paid BIGGA membership
• Club pension scheme
• Staff uniform and playing privileges

Apply now

Please apply to Garry Lacy: [e-mail].

Applications in writing should include a full CV, current salary and the names of two referees. Salary will be negotiable depending on experience and qualifications.

Application closing date: 31st August 2026.

Use the contact information above to contact us for more information.