Golf Operator III at White Oak Conservation

Job Title: Golf Operator III
Reports To: Golf Course Superintendent / Assistant Superintendent
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 
Effective Date:  August 22, 2025

White Oak conserves and sustains some of the earth's rarest wild animals through innovative training, research, education, and conservation breeding programs that contribute to the survival of wildlife in nature.  The conservation programs span 600 acres along the St. Mary’s River in northeast Florida, surrounded by 17,000 acres of mixed forest and wetlands that make up the beautiful White Oak property.  Founded in 1982, White Oak leads professional efforts to improve veterinary care, develop holistic animal management techniques, and better understand the biology of critically endangered species by providing excellent care and managing conservation programs for over 30 species of imperiled wildlife in large, naturalistic habitats.      

Job Summary: 
Golf Operator III is a senior-level position responsible for the skilled operation of heavy and specialized turf equipment and for carrying out complex maintenance procedures to ensure the golf course remains in optimal playing condition. This role combines hands-on expertise in turf care, irrigation, and equipment handling with a strong emphasis on safety, efficiency, and presentation. Operator III supports the Golf Course Superintendent and Assistant Superintendents by leading advanced tasks, maintaining high standards of course aesthetics and functionality, and mentoring less-experienced team members. A top priority of this position is maintaining a clean, safe, and organized Turf Care Center, consistent with Navy/hospital-grade standards of cleanliness.

Responsibilities and Tasks:
•    Mow and trim all turf areas including greens, tees, fairways, roughs, and bunker surrounds using specialized mowing equipment.
•    Operate heavy machinery including tractors, aerators, seeders, skid steers, loaders, backhoes, trenchers, and utility vehicles.
•    Conduct advanced turf maintenance tasks such as vertical mowing, seeding, aerifying, and drainage repair.
•    Maintain, adjust, and repair irrigation systems as needed; identify and report faults for corrective action.
•    Apply fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides in accordance with safety guidelines and turf health needs.
•    Hand-water greens and ornamentals to prevent turf stress and support plant health.
•    Set up and prepare the course for daily play and special events, including repositioning cups, flags, and tee markers.
•    Perform greens, bunkers, and fairway maintenance with attention to detail and consistency.
•    Maintain and organize the Turf Care Center and all maintenance areas to Navy hospital-grade cleanliness standards.
•    Follow and enforce safety procedures in all job functions, including chemical handling, machinery use, and environmental protection.
•    Assist with course renovation projects such as bunker reshaping, sod installation, and drainage system upgrades.
•    Provide guidance and support to Operators I and II staff as needed.
•    Maintain daily communication with supervisors regarding progress, issues, and course conditions.
•    Complete all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
•    Minimum of five (5) years of experience in golf course or turfgrass maintenance required.
•    In-depth understanding of golf course operations, turf management, and equipment usage.
•    Proficiency in the safe and efficient operation of tractors, heavy machinery, and motorized equipment.
•    Valid Florida or Georgia driver’s license required.
•    Must meet all qualifications and demonstrate competencies of Operator I and Operator II roles.
•    The ideal team player will:
•    Strong attention to detail and high-quality workmanship.
•    Solid understanding of turf care best practices and irrigation systems.
•    Ability to work in all weather conditions and manage physical labor effectively.
•    Effective communication and collaboration skills.
•    Demonstrated commitment to professionalism, punctuality, and team leadership.
•    Willingness to work flexible schedules, including weekends, holidays, and potential emergency call-backs

Specialized Maintenance Tasks:
For individuals with five or more years of golf course maintenance experience, this role may include:
•    Assisting in large-scale construction or renovation projects.
•    Performing green and bunker renovations including leveling, shaping, and drainage work.
•    Operating advanced course machinery including:
o    Five-plex mowers
o    Vertical mowers
o    Blowers and vacuums
o    Bush hog and pull-behind mowers
o    Chainsaws
o    Pronovost trailers and material handlers
o    Skid steers, loaders, and backhoes
•    Installing and repairing subsurface drainage systems.
•    Safely storing and using all turf chemicals; pesticide license preferred but not required.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

•    Work is performed outdoors in a variety of weather conditions including heat, humidity, rain, and cold.
•    Physical demands include regular lifting (up to 50 lbs.), bending, stooping, walking, and standing for extended periods.
•    Requires frequent operation of large machinery and handling of tools and turf products.
•    Must maintain a neat and professional appearance while in uniform.
•    Must comply with and support a drug-free workplace policy.

White Oak Conservation is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcome, and to nurturing a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state, or local law.