Course & Grounds Intern

As a Course & Grounds Intern at Sand Valley, your primary responsibilities will include participating in the grow-in work which encompasses seeding greens, tees, and fairways, conducting aquatic maintenance of lakes and ponds, and applying fertilizers and pesticides with proper calibration and record keeping. You'll also have the opportunity to manage small teams for various projects and learn turfgrass cultural practices like mowing and aerifying. Overall, the role is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of golf course maintenance and management.

To qualify for the Course & Grounds Intern position at Sand Valley, candidates should be currently enrolled or planning to enroll in a 2- or 4-year Turfgrass program. Recent graduates seeking additional experience are also welcomed. A strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a willingness to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment are essential attributes for success in this role.

Sand Valley provides various perks for its Course & Grounds Interns, including free housing, discounted dining options, and golf privileges. Interns also enjoy access to grass tennis courts, bocce ball, and fat tire biking along with hiking trails. Furthermore, employee meals are provided, and interns can benefit from discounts in the Pro Shop and participate in monthly barbeques and group appreciation events.

The internship program at Sand Valley is structured to provide a practical and immersive experience in golf course maintenance and management. Interns work closely with experienced staff who guide them through essential tasks, offer feedback, and encourage independence in executing projects. The blend of hands-on tasks and the opportunity to learn specialized skills, such as operating Toro Lynx control systems, ensures that interns leave with a rich understanding of the intricacies involved in maintaining a world-class golf resort.

If you're interested in the Course & Grounds Intern position at Sand Valley, you can reach out to Rob Duhm, the Director of Agronomy, at rduhm@sandvalley.com. Additionally, each golf course Superintendent can answer specific questions related to their areas. Their contact information is provided in the internship description, ensuring you find the right point of contact for your inquiries.

When answering this question, highlight your passion for golf course management and the outdoors, as well as your admiration for Sand Valley's commitment to natural beauty and sustainability. Mention specific elements of the internship that excite you, such as the opportunity to work with turfgrass or engage in team projects.

Make sure to discuss relevant coursework, practical experiences, or even personal projects that demonstrate your understanding of turfgrass management. Highlight specific skills you have developed, such as mowing techniques or pest control strategies, to illustrate your competence in this area.

Explain your method for prioritizing tasks, such as assessing deadlines, evaluating the urgency of assignments, or employing checklists. Provide examples of previous experiences where you successfully managed time in a high-paced environment, showcasing your organizational skills.

Discuss how you value collaboration and effective communication within a team setting. Share examples of past group projects or work experiences where you contributed positively to team dynamics, emphasizing your adaptability and open-mindedness in achieving collective goals.

Frame feedback as an opportunity for growth. Share a specific instance where you received constructive criticism and how you applied it to improve your performance. This demonstrates your resilience and willingness to learn.

Choose an example of a challenging situation that required problem-solving skills. Focus on how you approached the issue, the strategies you implemented, and the positive outcome that followed. This showcases your ability to think critically under pressure.

Do your research and express your knowledge about Sand Valley's unique offerings, such as its five world-class golf courses, commitment to sustainability, and emphasis on a community-centered experience. Showing enthusiasm and knowledge about the company sets a strong foundation for your answers.

Share your aspirations related to turfgrass management, whether it’s pursuing further education, specializing in a specific area, or aiming for a leadership role within the industry. This shows your dedication to the field and willingness to grow professionally.

Rate your attention to detail positively, and illustrate your point with a concrete example, such as a project where your meticulousness led to a successful outcome or improved conditions on a golf course. This conveys your reliability and commitment to high standards.

Use this question to summarize your qualifications, experience, and enthusiasm for the Course & Grounds Intern position at Sand Valley. Reinforce your readiness to contribute positively to the team, and express your eagerness to learn from the experienced professionals at the resort.