Position & Program Overview
The Assistant in Training (AIT) is a structured, two-facility internship experience created through a partnership between Sand Valley and 21 Golf Club. This highly selective program is designed for emerging agronomy professionals pursuing long-term leadership careers in golf course management.
Through hands-on responsibility and direct mentorship, the AIT supports daily golf course operations while building technical agronomy expertise, leadership capability, and operational judgment across two distinct golf environments.
Program Timeline
Phase 1 - The Lido at Sand Valley | Nekoosa, WI
Late March or early April through mid-October 2027
Transition Week
One week off for travel to South Carolina
Phase 2 - 21 Golf Club | Aiken, South Carolina
Approximately six months, concluding in April 2028
Employment, compensation, and benefits are administered separately for each portion of the program and are subject to the policies of the employing entity.
Phase 1 - The Lido at Sand Valley
The Lido at Sand Valley is a championship links-style golf course inspired by the original Lido Club and maintained at the highest standard within a destination resort environment.
Primary Responsibilities:
Assist with daily planning, staffing schedules, and execution of maintenance activities
Perform course setup, mowing, rolling, bunker care, and irrigation operation
Train, guide, and supervise seasonal team members with a focus on quality and safety
Support irrigation, drainage, water management, and turf health programs
Assist with fertilizer, aeration, and integrated pest management applications
Participate in course construction, renovation, and specialty maintenance projects
Assist with equipment operation, maintenance, and preventative care
Support purchasing, inventory management, and operational recordkeeping
Serve in the Superintendent’s capacity during absences, as assigned
Phase 2 - 21 Golf Club
21 Golf Club is a private golf club located in Aiken, South Carolina, offering a distinct agronomic environment and operational approach within a member-focused setting.
Primary Responsibilities:
Assist the Director of Agronomy with daily course and facility management
Support crew scheduling, operational procedures, and daily course setup
Assist with irrigation scheduling and system adjustments to maximize water efficiency
Apply best management practices to meet course conditioning and detail standards
Assist with fertilizer, plant protectant, and aerification programs
Coordinate with the Equipment Manager on mowing schedules, tournaments, and equipment needs
Assist with construction projects, renovations, and special initiatives
Maintain chemical, fertilizer, and application records
Participate in budgeting discussions and operational planning
Actively engage in on-the-job learning by asking questions, applying instruction, and demonstrating initiative
Qualifications
High school diploma required
Certificate, Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or current enrollment in an accredited turfgrass or related program preferred
Previous golf course maintenance experience preferred
Strong interest in building a long-term career in golf course management
Working knowledge of agronomy, irrigation, and course maintenance practices, or a strong desire to learn
Ability to understand and follow instructions, policies, and procedures
General understanding of motorized golf course equipment
Demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and strong work ethic
Playing knowledge of golf preferred but not required
Flexible schedule including early mornings, weekends, and holidays
Willingness to relocate temporarily as part of a two-facility program
Working Conditions
Combination of indoor and outdoor work
Exposure to extreme heat, humidity, and cold weather
Overtime as required based on operational needs
Physical requirements include standing, walking, bending, lifting, and operating equipment
