Golf Course Superintendent

River Oaks Country Club, a Platinum Club of America and Platinum Club of the World, is seeking its next Golf Course Superintendent to lead one of the country's most respected private, member-owned clubs.

The chosen leader will direct all aspects of agronomic and golf course maintenance operations and take significant pride in being a steward of the golf culture. This individual will work collaboratively with club leadership, the Green Committee, and staff to continuously improve conditions, presentation, agronomic practices, and member experience.

Reporting to the COO, the Superintendent will steward a talented team, manage budgets, and lead strategic planning and execution on both daily and long-range initiatives.

ABOUT THE CLUB

Founded in 1923, River Oaks Country Club has established itself as one of the premier private clubs in the United States, built upon a nearly century-long tradition of championship golf, exceptional hospitality, and an unwavering commitment to member experience. Deeply rooted in the history and culture of Houston, the club has consistently evolved while preserving the traditions, standards, and sense of community that have defined its reputation for generations.

At the heart of River Oaks Country Club is a mission centered on delivering the ultimate country club experience - a standard that extends far beyond golf course conditioning alone. The club strives to create an environment where every detail reflects excellence, from course presentation and facilities to service standards, member programming, and long-term stewardship of the property. This pursuit of excellence has positioned River Oaks as a destination club known for both its elite golf experience and its strong sense of camaraderie among members and staff.

The club’s culture is grounded in five core values: Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, Growth, and Pride. These principles shape decision-making across the organization and foster a collaborative environment where employees are encouraged to lead, innovate, and continuously develop professionally. 

River Oaks values individuals who take ownership in their roles, communicate effectively, and contribute positively to the broader team culture. Leadership places a strong emphasis on alignment, accountability, and creating an atmosphere where high standards and professional support coexist. River Oaks understands that sustaining excellence requires more than facilities and resources - it requires building exceptional teams, empowering leaders, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Across all departments, the club emphasizes professionalism, communication, innovation, and a shared commitment to delivering an elevated member experience every day.

The golf course itself carries a rich competitive and architectural legacy. Over the years, River Oaks has remained committed to protecting and enhancing the integrity of its golf experience through thoughtful planning, infrastructure investment, and collaboration with some of the game’s most respected golf course architects and industry experts. This long-term approach reflects the club’s dedication to maintaining championship-caliber conditioning, strategic playability, and a golf environment that honors the club’s history while preparing it for future generations.

CLUB AT A GLANCE

SUCCESS TRAITS

The successful candidate will bring:

• Passion for being a leader at a premier private club
• Open-mindedness and receptiveness to feedback
• A collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills
• Excellent communication — in person, in writing, and in committee settings
• Strong financial acumen and budgeting capability
• A culture-creator orientation, within the department and alongside a strong executive team
• Straightforward communication paired with a sense of urgency
• High golf IQ — a clear understanding of how agronomics impact playability
• A detail-oriented, organized, and forward-thinking approach
• Visible leadership and engagement with both staff and members
• A team-building mindset focused on staff development
• A willingness to innovate and take calculated risks
• Appropriate gravitas with all constituents
• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• A strong industry network, both regionally and nationally

INITIAL PRIORITIES

In the first months on the property, the Superintendent will focus on:

• Maintaining high course conditioning and member expectations
• Improving cleanliness and organization of workspaces
• Studying and developing plans for future course enhancements (greens, bunkers, tees)
• Communicating and aligning priorities with the Green Committee and club leadership
• Continuing augmentation of course presentation off the fairway
• Strengthening staff processes and agronomic standards

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee all agronomic programs including plant health care, turf management, water management, and natural areas
• Lead the golf course maintenance team across recruiting, hiring, performance management, and development
• Collaborate with senior leadership to plan and manage operating and capital budgets
• Coordinate long-range planning and project execution aligned with club strategy
• Apply sound agronomic practices while innovating for competitive advantage
• Communicate effectively with members, committees, and colleagues
• Ensure departmental compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements
• Act as steward of the golf experience by understanding member and guest expectations
• Develop and enforce departmental standards, processes, and procedures
• Bring exceptional financial acumen, water management, and drainage practices
• Seek out the latest advancements in golf course management and industry best practices

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in turfgrass management, agronomy, or a related field
• Prior leadership experience as a Golf Course Superintendent
• Experience at a private member club with significant expectations for presentation and playability
• Experience with Mini Verde and Celebration Bermuda grasses
• Demonstrated success in managing budgets and long-range planning
• Pesticide applicator's license, or ability to obtain within 90 days
• A strong people management track record - history of developing interns and assistants
• Ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Spanish language skills are a plus

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

River Oaks offers a competitive base salary commensurate with similar demographic facilities, plus a robust benefits package:

• Annual incentive-based bonus opportunity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with dollar-for-dollar match up to 4%, plus 4% safe harbor contribution
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Paid time off (15 days in year one, then per club policy)
• Uniform and education allowance
• Local and national dues reimbursement
• Free meals
• Cell phone allowance
• Continuing education support