We are currently recruiting for a First Assistant Greenkeeper to join our growing team here at Kilkea Castle.  This is a full-time position.

Kilkea Castle Hotel is a 140-bedroom resort set on 180 acres of landscape, gardens and ancient woodland. This family-owned and managed estate offers a tranquil spa, a challenging 18-hole championship golf course and a world-class culinary experience. We are Great Place to Work 2024 certified and Georgina Campbell’s Four-Star Hotel of the Year 2024.

Our team members are the heart of our hotel and the core of our success, and we believe that by creating a positive and supportive environment, we can deliver outstanding service to our guests.

Our mission is to provide exceptional guest experiences through excellent service, integrity while ensuring that every guest feels valued, safe, and at home.

Job Title:

First Assistant Greenkeeper

Reporting to:          

Estate Manager

Job Description:    

The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining and enhancing the golf course to the highest standard while ensuring an exceptional experience for all members and guests of the resort as well as assisting the Estate Manager to oversee daily operations and leading the team in maintaining the quality of the course.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in managing daily maintenance of the golf course and ensuring it meets resort standard.
• Operate and maintain golf course equipment, including mowers, sprayers, and aerators.
• Monitor and manage turf health, irrigation, and drainage system.
• Maintain and prepare bunkers, greens, tees, and rough areas to resort standards.
• Supervise and support the greenkeeping team ensuring tasks are completed efficiently.
• Assist the Estate Manager in training junior greenkeepers in turf management, safety procedures, and equipment use.
• Work closely with the Estate Manager to prepare for events and competitions.
• Assist in delegating work assignments and overseeing task execution.
• Assist in application of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides while ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Monitor disease and pest activity and take preventative and corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure all greenkeeping operations comply with health and safety procedures.
• Maintain a safe working environment for team members. Regularly inspect equipment and report any issues to the resort mechanic

Skills/Requirements

• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in greenkeeping.
• Recognised qualification in Sports Turf Management.
• Strong knowledge of irrigation, aeration, drainage, and turf disease management.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining golf course machinery.
• PA1, PA2, and PA6 spraying certificate preferred but not essential. (Must be willing to obtain)
• Basic knowledge of Health and Safety regulations.
• Excellent leadership skills and team supervision experience.
• Attention to detail.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and as part of a team.
• Must be available to work full time hours including weekends and/or Bank Holidays.
• Valid work permit for minimum of 12 months. 

Benefits

• Discounts across entire resort
• Competitive hourly rate
• Meals while on duty
• Employee Recognition
• Bike to Work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme and PRSA scheme
• Continuous training and development
• Uniform provided*
• Gratuities*

  *To relevant positions