Head Golf Course Superintendent

Blackthorn Golf Club – South Bend, IN

Blackthorn Golf Club, an upscale 18-hole championship golf course located in South Bend, IN is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Head Golf Course Superintendent to join our leadership team.

This is a key position responsible for the overall agronomic management, conditioning, and presentation of the golf course and practice facilities to the highest standards. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, be hard working, deep turfgrass knowledge, and a proven ability to deliver exceptional playing conditions while managing resources effectively.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee all aspects of golf course maintenance for upscale 18 holes, practice facilities, and landscaping around the clubhouse.

Develop and execute agronomic plans, including fertilization, pest control, irrigation scheduling, and cultural practices.

Hire, manage, train, and motivate the maintenance staff to ensure efficient operations and attention to detail.

Operate and maintain irrigation and drainage systems to ensure optimal turf health.

Plan and oversee capital improvement projects, renovations, and equipment maintenance in coordination with ownership.

Prepare and manage the annual maintenance budget, controlling costs without compromising quality.

Ensure compliance with all environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements.

Communicate regularly with ownership, golf operations, and other department heads to align course maintenance with club goals and event schedules.

Manage The Reserve HOA maintenance work for 14 homeowners.

Qualifications

Minimum 2 years of progressive golf course maintenance experience, with at least 2 years in a superintendent or senior assistant role (18-hole or multi-course experience preferred).

Bachelors Degree or Associates Degree in Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, or related field.

Strong agronomic knowledge of cool-season turfgrass management in Northern climates.

Strong budgetary skill set.

Proven leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

Experience with irrigation systems, including troubleshooting and repair.

Pesticide applicator’s license.

Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays during the golf season.

Ability to obtain an Indiana 3B pesticide license.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience.

Paid time off and professional development opportunities.

Golf privileges and discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise.

Supportive ownership committed to course excellence and staff development.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to:

Please include “Head Golf Course Superintendent Application” in the subject line.

About Blackthorn

Blackthorn Golf Club, a Dr. Michael Hurdzan design, opened to rave reviews in August of 1994. The Irish-Cottage style clubhouse sets upon a rolling naturally contoured heavily wooded 226-acre site. The par 72, 7136-yard layout with four sets of tees offers a strategic test for golfers of all abilities. Broad fairways framed by 78 bunkers, wetlands, ponds, and native prairie grasses lead to subtly contoured and swept-up-tiered bentgrass greens. The practice facility consists of two acres of bentgrass tees, realistic target greens and a short game area for putting, chipping, and bunker play.

Blackthorn has hosted the following large events. Big East Championship, Hooter’s Tour, Epson Tour and several Indiana PGA Section events.

Blackthorn: yards 7136 , rating 74.8, slope 136

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Blackthorn Golf Club

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Head Golf Course Superintendent