Greenkeeping Apprenticeship
PRESTWICK GOLF CLUB
GREENKEEPING APPRENTICESHIP
Build your career at the Birthplace of The Open
Following the celebration of our 175th anniversary, Prestwick Golf Club is seeking an enthusiastic Greenkeeping Apprentice to join our experienced course team.
Prestwick holds a unique place in golfing history. Founded in 1851 and host venue for the first Open Championship, the Club is proud of its heritage while continuing to look confidently towards the future.
Our approach to course management is progressive and data-driven, using modern technology, performance measurement and sustainable practices to support informed decision-making. At the same time, we remain committed to the authentic “touch and feel” values of traditional links greenkeeping—the experience, judgement and attention to detail required to present a natural, firm and challenging links course.
The apprenticeship
This three-year training programme will combine blended education with SRUC Elmwood, Cupar, with practical, hands-on experience alongside Prestwick’s skilled greenkeeping team.
During the programme, you will work towards an SVQ Level 2 qualification in Sports Turf Management, with the potential to progress further through the Modern Apprenticeship pathway.
You will gain experience across all aspects of links-course management, including:
- Preparing and maintaining greens, tees, fairways, roughs and practice areas
- Safely operating a wide range of modern turf-maintenance machinery
- Mowing and presenting playing surfaces to a consistently high standard
- Bunker preparation, turfing, divoting and general course set-up
- Supporting irrigation, drainage and water-management operations
- Learning about plant health, soils, nutrition and sustainable turf management
- Collecting and using course-performance and environmental data
- Assisting with ecological projects and the development of wildlife habitats
- Supporting tournament preparation and the daily presentation of this historic links
You will learn how traditional greenkeeping knowledge can be combined with modern technology, data and innovation to protect and enhance the character of Prestwick’s links.
About you
We are looking for someone who is genuinely interested in building a career in greenkeeping. Previous experience is not essential, as full training and support will be provided.
The successful candidate will be:
- Enthusiastic, hardworking and willing to learn
- Reliable, punctual and committed
- Able to work effectively as part of a team
- Confident working independently when required
- Proactive and willing to take responsibility
- Focused on quality and attention to detail
- Comfortable undertaking physical work in all weather conditions
- Interested in the environment, sustainability and the outdoors
- Able to demonstrate a satisfactory level of literacy and numeracy
An interest in golf or previous experience within greenkeeping, landscaping, horticulture, agriculture or grounds maintenance would be advantageous, although it is not essential.
Working arrangements
The position is based on a 39-hour working week, Monday to Friday. Working patterns will vary seasonally, and weekend work will be required with paid overtime.
The successful applicant will receive:
- 30 days’ annual leave
- A competitive apprenticeship salary with paid overtime
- Structured education and practical workplace training
- Support and mentoring from an experienced links greenkeeping team
- Opportunities for continued professional development
- BIGGA membership paid
- Meal on duty
The chance to begin a rewarding career at one of golf’s most historic clubs
How to apply
Please submit your CV together with a covering letter explaining:
- Why you would like to pursue a career in greenkeeping
- Why you would like to join Prestwick Golf Club
- The skills and personal qualities you would bring to the role
Applications should be sent to:
Darren McLaughlan
Links manager
[email protected]
Closing date: 03/09/2026
