2027-2028 Assistant in Training (AIT) Internship | The Lido & 21 Golf Club

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
• Housing
• Housing is provided throughout both phases of the program.
• 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

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