Senior Instructor/ Player Development Specialist

Stanford University; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Stanford University seeks a Senior Instructor/Player Development Specialist for the Stanford Golf Course Learning Center on the main campus in Palo Alto. You will lead instruction, develop junior and group programs, and collaborate with staff to deliver high‑quality coaching and programming.

The role focuses on individual and group coaching, junior golf development, and broader instructional programming, reporting to the General Manager and contributing to budget and operations as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or equivalent educational background is described as required.
• Experience in golf instruction and program leadership is emphasized.
• Strong communication and organizational skills are important.

Responsibilities

• Lead golf instruction and player development programs.
• Design and manage junior/large group programming.
• Provide administrative support and budget tracking for instruction programs.

Education

Associate degree + 4 years of relevant experience, or combination

Tools

TrackMan

Video analysis

Launch monitors

Job description

Budgeted Salary Range: $65,055 - $75,000 per annumWork Arrangement: OnsiteStanford’s Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation (DAPER) is the premier intercollegiate athletics program in the country. We are the proud Home of Champions! We lead the nation with 139 NCAA championship titles, won the Women’s Capital One Cup four of the last five years, and have brought home the Learfield Director’s Cup for 25 straight years. We support nearly 900 student-athletes who compete on 36 intercollegiate athletics teams and also support the university’s physical education, recreation and wellness initiatives. Our dedicated staff embody a culture of excellence, embrace our mission of scholar-athleticism and exemplify a relentless championship spirit. Our actions and staff are guided by the core tenets of the Athletics Department culture, “The DAPER Way,” which are: Embrace Scholar-Athleticism, Pursue and Revere Excellence, Lead with Courage and Work Cohesively.

Are you ready to inspire champions? If yes, then this may be the right opportunity for you!

The Stanford Golf Course is currently accepting applications for the position of Senior Instructor/ Player Development Specialist.

This position will report to the General Manager of the Stanford Golf Course and will serve as the onsite lead for player development, junior golf and larger group instructional programming at the Stanford Golf Course Learning Center. This role will work closely with staff across the entire Stanford Golf Course and Learning Center operation to ensure all instructional and programmatic components are delivered at the highest level. Specific focus areas include individual and group instruction, junior golf development, and larger group programming. This position is based on the Stanford main campus.

Primary Responsibilities Include:

Golf Instruction (70%)

• Offer instructional services to all constituent groups a minimum of 10 hours per week.
• Help the General Manager manage, oversee and direct the total golf instruction and player development programming for the facility.
• Utilize state-of-the‑art teaching and learning theories and be able to integrate the use of teaching aids, video, launch monitors, etc. when appropriate in all programs.
• Assist with information requests regarding or pertaining to the scheduling of lessons and instructional golf.
• Help with upkeep of the golf range to ensure that safe, clean, organized and professional conditions always exist.
• Maintain teaching aids and equipment inventory in excellent condition.

Junior Golf & Larger Group Programming (30%)

• Design, develop and lead junior golf programs, camps and clinics that build long‑term player development pathways.
• Plan, schedule and manage larger group instructional programming, including corporate outings, university groups, camps and community programs.
• Recruit, train and supervise junior instructors and programme assistants as needed.
• Build and maintain partnerships with local schools, youth organisations and junior golf associations (e.g., PGA Junior League, US Kids Golf) to grow program participation.
• Track enrolment, participant progress and program outcomes to continually improve junior and group offerings.
• Promote junior and group programmes through marketing materials and social media platforms.

Administration (10%)

• Provide administrative assistance for the Stanford Learning Center, ensuring all service standards are met.
• Maintain instructional program schedules, registration and billing records for junior and group programs.
• Provide monthly participation and program data along with related analysis.
• Communicate with members, customers and parents regarding program specifics, scheduling and promotions; troubleshoot and resolve issues.
• Assist the General Manager with budget tracking and administrative needs for instruction and junior golf programs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree and four years of relevant experience, or combination of education and relevant experience.
• At least 3 years of golf instruction experience, including experience with junior golf and group programming.
• PGA Member (Class A), or Level 1 PGA Associate in good standing preferred.
• Experience with junior golf curricula (e.g., PGA Jr. League, US Kids Golf, Operation 36) preferred.
• Familiarity with teaching technology such as TrackMan, video analysis or launch monitors preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Strong knowledge of golf swing mechanics, player development principles and coaching methodology.
• Ability to plan, organise and lead group clinics, camps and larger programming.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Self‑motivated individual who takes initiative, continually self‑evaluates, and proactively identifies new opportunities.
• Ability to work under pressure and time constraints with the ability to multi-task and prioritise workload in a fast‑paced atmosphere.

Core Duties

• Manage day-to-day activities of the operational aspects of aprogram or facility. Provide high‑quality customer service to sportsand/or recreation participants and coaches.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for the operation and/or program and represent the unit as needed.
• Gather, input, and report customer‑based data and provide recommendations for improvement of the operation and/or program.
• Analyze and interpret policies and procedures and revise and develop alternatives as needed.
• Maintain accurate accounting and inventory tracking as well as resolve any accounting or inventory discrepancies.
• Assist in training staff on systems and other technologies used daily.
• May participate in the development of budgets and monitor expenditures.
• May oversee and coordinate the work of more junior athletic staff, students and/or contingent staff engaged in the day‑to‑day performance of related activities.
• May operate retail and inventory technologies.

Minimum Education and Experience

Associate degree and four years of relevant experience, or combination of education and relevant experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of intercollegiate/sports operations and programming.
• Maintain a positive, customer‑focused attitude by listening, understanding and responding to customer needs and offering creative solutions.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills and demonstrated experience with office software and email applications.
• Advanced knowledge of athletic, mechanical, and electronic equipment, supplies, and/or uniform repair.
• Knowledge of supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control.
• Records maintenance skills.
• Strong relevant subject matter knowledge.
• Ability to follow through and complete assigned tasks.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of supervisory practices.
• Knowledge of NCAA regulations a plus.

Certificates and Licenses Required

Sport/Unit certifications may be needed (i.e.,AEMA, PGA)