Irrigation Technician

Alvarez & Marsal Golf (A&M Golf) is pleased to announce the recruitment of an agronomy team to oversee and assist with all stages of a new golf course's construction, grow-in, and subsequent maintenance. This world-class golf development is located just two miles south of the home of golf, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the golf course towards St. Andrews and across the sea to Carnoustie.

A&M Golf is deeply passionate about the camaraderie of golf, a core value that drives its business. The company owns and operates premium properties, including Hogs Head Golf Club in Waterville, Ireland, and Paako Ridge Golf Club in New Mexico, USA. These venues are designed to engage, inspire, and excite both members and guests, delivering exceptional "Bucket List" experiences with outstanding service and hospitality.

The new St Andrews development will provide members and non-members with a variety of world-class amenities, including:

• An 18-hole championship golf course with top-tier practice facilities
• A Par 3 course and a Himalayan putting course
• A clubhouse, spa, lodge, and cottages
• The restoration of the original farmhouse building to create a unique halfway house dining experience

David Cole, our Director of Agronomy, is currently recruiting a new agronomy team to collaborate closely with the golf course contractors throughout the construction, grow-in, and long-term maintenance phases of the golf courses and grounds.

Irrigation Technician

Reporting to the Senior Agronomy Team, the irrigation technician will directly participate in all aspects of the irrigation installation and other key phases of the construction and grow-in for A&M Fife’s golf courses and grounds. This expert position will play a crucial role observing and assisting with the installation of the irrigation systems to ensure a seamless grow-in of the golf courses, and long term will ensure that the golf course maintains optimal playing conditions while conserving water and resources.

The Irrigation technician will be responsible for:

• During the installation and construction phases, work closely with the senior agronomy and irrigation design team and contractors, monitoring and overseeing all aspects of the irrigation installation for the golf courses and grounds
• Take responsibility for the ongoing maintenance and operation of the irrigation systems and technology
• Identifying potential problems with the irrigation systems and provide corrective solutions and recommendations to the senior agronomy team
• Organise and conduct routine inspections and maintenance of the irrigation system, including sprinklers, valves, pipes, and control systems
• Troubleshoot electrical or mechanical components of the irrigation system
• Conduct system tests and checks to optimise water usage and distribution by adjusting sprinkler heads, arcs, nozzles, and water pressure
• Ensure all irrigation equipment and tools are kept in excellent working order 
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and repairs, and communicate with the senior agronomy team and staff on the irrigation system status and maintenance needs
• Monitor water requirements with the use of ET and moisture devices and set irrigation schedules based on weather conditions and turfgrass requirements.
• Ensuring training for safe use of operations to the irrigation and sprinkler systems
• Assisting with producing information for the irrigation repair and maintenance annual operational budgets
• Maintaining good communications with all the senior agronomy team and staff and offer assistance and advice when required
• Assisting with greenkeeping and grounds duties whenever required and other duties as assigned by the senior agronomy team

Applicants should have: 

• A consistent history of employment with at least 3 years’ experience at a senior Greenkeeping level
• A professional track record in the areas of:
  • NVQ level 3 or equivalent in Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Management
  • PA1, PA2 and PA6 spraying certificates but not mandatory
  • Golf course irrigation installation, construction and development
  • The game of golf
  • Turf-grass management
  • Proficient in IT
  • Working knowledge of golf course operations
• Good experience managing multiple projects and contractors
• Some experience in managing world class golfing playing conditions on a daily basis
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• Be a person with presence and the skill and ability to influence others
• Experience of working within a similar quality-orientated organisation
• Confidence, and a passion for what they do and not be afraid to talk out
• A drive to stay current with continual professional development through industry conferences, and educational opportunities

To apply, please email [email protected] with a cover letter explaining your interest in the role, along with an up-to-date CV.