Senior Greenkeeper: The Machrie Golf and Greens

On almost every hole, a well-placed tee shot offers a clear view of the green and flag. Miss the ideal line, however, and the challenge quickly increases, calling for care and creativity. An original Willie Campbell design dating back to 1891 and redesigned in 2018 by David J. Russell to modern championship standards, our iconic course stretches over 7000 yards from the back tees and is designed to be playable in all conditions. The Machrie Islay offers plenty of variety and tests every aspect of the golf game. It’s this balance of precision and nerve that keeps our members and guests engaged, tested, and eager to return for more.

As our Senior Greenkeeper at Another Place – The Machrie, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and playability of our The Machrie Islay course. You’ll work closely with the Course Manager, Head Greenkeeper and Greens Team, and will oversee the daily, weekly, and monthly supervision of the course, addressing any maintenance concerns and issues.

As our Senior Greenkeeper you’ll be:

• Overseeing (with the Head Greenkeeper) the care and maintenance of the turf, ornamental plants, shrubs, trees, natural areas, sand dunes, and water areas on the facility grounds.
• Directing and assisting on the planting of new vegetation, the replacement, spraying, pruning, and trimming of any trees, shrubs, sand dunes.
• Preparing soil plant beds for aesthetically pleasing arrangements and tending to high stress areas.
• Supporting management of water usage and irrigation systems and provides monthly reporting on (if applicable) retaining ponds, wells and other water source usage.
• Working with the HR Team with recruitment, supervise the team and conduct employee reviews where necessary.
• Providing technical, operational and safety training for employees.
• Overseeing subordinates in proper and safe operation and maintenance of mechanical and power equipment.
• Support plans and budgets for additional or replacement capital equipment.
• Supervising and participates in the application and recording of chemical applications (fertilizers and pesticides) on the Club's grounds in compliance with all local, National, and international regulations.
• Supervising and supports the control of all maintenance expenses associated with Golf Course Maintenance Operations, including payroll, supplies, chemicals, and fertilizers.
• Maintaining records and completes required reporting. Order parts, supplies and equipment as needed.
• Working with Course Manager to schedule maintenance practices around visitor, member play and outings to maximize efficiency and minimize disruption to all players.
• Coordinating seasonal maintenance activities when necessary.
• Ensuring the whole department is fully compliant, covering but not limited to COSHH, LOLER, up-to-date HR policies, SOP’s, training/education plans, internal and external audits.

The skills you’ll be sharing with us:

• 3-5 years’ experience as a Senior Greenkeeper or Deputy Head Greenkeeper.
• Knowledge of management and maintenance of greens, fairways, roughs, natural sand dunes and potential areas of scientific interest.
• Knowledge of use and operating standards of equipment and tools used in golf course construction and maintenance work.
• Knowledge of safe use, mixing and application of chemicals and commercial products.
• Knowledge of the game of golf, golf rules and methods of play.
• Ability to anticipate personnel, equipment, and material requirements related to golf course maintenance and repair assignments.
• Ability and knowledge to lay out irrigation patterns, drainage patterns, construct tees and/or greens.
• Ability to operate cutting equipment and perform course set-up procedures.
• Advanced computer skills for financial reporting and control of operations, including use of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge and experience working on/at a tournament links venue advantageous (desirable).
• A Certification by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, BIGGA or equivalent (desirable).
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality standards.
• Good time management and teamwork abilities.
• Able to work well under pressure.
• 2-year degree or certificate in Turf Management or a related field (desirable).

Please note, this is a full-time salaried role working 40 hours per week.

Life at Another Place – The Machrie: Due to the hotel’s remote location, you will require a valid driving license and access to a personal vehicle. We also offer team accommodation within same-sex residences (where possible). As a team, we work together to deliver memorable moments for our guests to immerse themselves in the vibrancy of island living, and it’s our strong sense of community and our wider connection to the residents and natural beauty of Islay, that allows us to offer a space where outdoor living and indoor comforts coalesce – where both guests, locals, and team can rest, play, work, gather, and make the most of what matters.

What we’ll offer you in return:

• A relaxed, professional place to work in a beautiful location – Islay ‘the queen’ of the Hebridean archipelago off the West Coast of Scotland.
• A welcoming team of like minds, eager to support and encourage each other.
• Accommodation (as required, dependent on availability).
• Excellent career prospects in an ever-expanding organisation.
• An Islay Living Allowance provided for team members residing off-site.
• Use of our Championship Links Golf Course (7,000 yards from the back tees, rated one of the world's top 100), regardless of ability.
• Special rates for you and your friends & family to stay at Another Place – The Machrie, Another Place – The Lake, SeaSpace, and Watergate Bay Hotels.
• Discounts for you and your friends & family to eat at our variety of restaurants (including 18 Restaurant and Bar).
• Team social events throughout the year.
• Team assistance scheme – a dedicated helpline for support & advice on topics from mental health through to managing your finances.

From discounted stays to training and development opportunities, we’re all about helping our team achieve their personal and professional goals. With far-reaching views stretching across the golf links and Laggan Bay, you’ll never be short on inspiration. Life at Another Place isn’t just a job - it’s a transformative career opportunity.

If you would love to join us as our Senior Greenkeeper, apply now and be part of our journey at Another Place – The Machrie, a wonderful place to work.