What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Golf Operations position at O'Donnell Golf Club?
Job Title: Director of Golf Operations
Location: O’Donnell Golf Club – Palm Springs, CA
Reports To: General Manager
Club Overview:
O’Donnell Golf Club, established in 1929 and nestled in the heart of downtown Palm Springs adjacent to the Art Museum, is the oldest golf course in the Coachella Valley. A truly unique and private 9-hole facility with a rich history and a relaxed, member-focused culture, the Club offers a welcoming environment for its 235 golf members and 60 social members. There are no tee times — members play at their leisure, enjoying an experience that blends tradition, quality, and discretion.
Position Summary:
O’Donnell Golf Club is seeking a Director of Golf Operations to oversee all aspects of golf operations, tournament and event coordination, retail merchandising, and member engagement, while also assisting the General Manager in key operational areas across the club.
This is a full-time, year-round leadership position (not seasonal), ideal for a motivated and service-oriented individual with a strong background in golf operations and a desire to grow into a future General Manager role. The right candidate will bring passion for golf, excellent communication skills, and proven organizational ability.
Core Responsibilities:
Golf Operations & Tournament Management
- Manage daily golf operations including player starts, course observation, and pace of play.
- Coordinate and execute all member tournaments and events.
- Collaborate with the golf committee on event formats, pairings, scoring, and rules.
- Provide a high level of service to members and guests before, during, and after events.
- Oversee GHIN/handicap posting and rules compliance.
Retail & Golf Shop Management
- Supervise the daily operations of the golf shop, including POS, inventory, and merchandising.
- Purchase and manage inventory of apparel, equipment, and accessories.
- Depending on experience, the golf shop operation may be managed independently by this individual. As such, we are seeking someone entrepreneurial, with the financial capacity to invest in and provide a high-quality golf retail experience for our members.
Club Operations Support
- Work closely with the GM in managing food & beverage operations during golf events.
- Assist in the planning and execution of member programming and year-round activities.
- Support agronomic efforts by observing course conditions and coordinating with turf teams.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Proven experience in golf operations, merchandising, tournament management, or club leadership.
- Strong knowledge of golf and a deep respect for its history and traditions.
- Self-starter with project management skills and a collaborative mindset.
- Outstanding interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
- Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and peak season hours.
- PGA Membership, PGA Associate status, or equivalent club operations experience preferred.
- Computer literacy required.
- Private club experience preferred.
Education Requirements:
- A college degree is required. Candidates with significant applicable experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Full-time, year-round employment.
- Health and retirement benefits.
- Golf privileges and merchandise discounts.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume and cover letter to alexandra@odonnellgolfclub.com.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Retirement plan
Schedule:
- Holidays
- Weekends as needed
Experience:
- Golf: 1 year (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Palm Springs, CA 92262: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $75,000 - $100,000