Head Golf Professional
Head Golf Professional
Park Hills Golf Course | Freeport Park District
Freeport, Illinois
Lead the Future of a Premier Northern Illinois Public Golf Facility
The Freeport Park District is seeking an experienced, energetic, and innovative Head Golf Professional to lead the golf operations of Park Hills Golf Course, a premier 36-hole public golf facility in Freeport, Illinois. This is an outstanding opportunity for an accomplished golf professional who is passionate about the game, committed to exceptional customer service, and motivated to grow participation, increase revenue, and enhance the overall golfing experience.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to build upon the strong traditions of Park Hills Golf Course while introducing new ideas, expanding golf programming, and helping shape the future of one of Northwest Illinois' most established public golf facilities.
About Park Hills Golf Course
Park Hills Golf Course is a 36-hole public golf facility situated on more than 300 acres of rolling terrain in Northwest Illinois. The facility features two distinctly different 18-hole championship courses, mature tree-lined fairways, extensive practice facilities, and a long-standing reputation for providing quality playing conditions and an outstanding public-golf experience.
Both courses were designed by C.D. Wagstaff in 1955, providing Park Hills with more than 70 years of golf history. The East Course is a classic parkland layout measuring 6,503 yards from the back tees. The par-72 course has a 70.8 course rating and 124 slope and features rolling, tree-lined fairways,strategically placed bunkers, and a variety of holes that reward thoughtful shot-making while remaining enjoyable for golfers of varying abilities.
The West Course provides a more demanding test, measuring 6,627 yards from the back tees. The par-72 layout has a 71.9 course rating and 128 slope. Elevation changes, mature trees, forced carries, strategically positioned bunkers, creeks, and undulating greens create a challenging and memorable golf experience. In addition to its 36 holes, Park Hills offers a 300-yard natural-grass practice range with 15 hitting stations, two large practice putting greens, a fully stocked Pro Shop, Legacy Pub, and outdoor patio. The facility serves daily public play as well as leagues, tournaments, charitable and corporate outings, and special events throughout the golf season. Park Hills has previously earned a 3½- star rating in Golf Digest's Places to Play for value and service.
The Position
Reporting directly to the Executive Director of the Freeport Park District, the Head Golf Professional is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and financial performance of golf operations at Park Hills Golf Course and Legacy Pub.
Responsibilities include overseeing daily golf operations, the Pro Shop, tee time management, golf cart fleet, leagues, tournaments, outings, instructional programs, merchandising, and food and beverage operations.
An important component of this position is developing strategies to increase rounds played, attract new golfers, expand tournaments and outings, and strengthen the financial performance of the facility. Working collaboratively with the Golf Course Superintendent, Park District leadership, and the Communications and Marketing Manager, the Head Golf Professional will help ensure Park Hills continues to provide an exceptional golf experience while remaining a competitive and financially sustainable public golf facility.
Key Responsibilities
• Direct daily golf operations for two 18-hole courses, including the Pro Shop, tee sheet management, golf cart fleet, and golfer services.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase rounds played, customer satisfaction, and overall golf revenue.
• Plan, organize, and administer golf leagues, tournaments, corporate outings, charitable events, and special golf programs.
• Actively recruit new tournaments, outings, leagues, and group events to expand participation and generate additional revenue.
• Develop and manage sponsorship and advertising opportunities, including tee markers, scorecards, tournaments, special events, and other golf course promotions.
• Actively cultivating relationships with local businesses and corporate partners.
• Provide professional golf instruction, including individual lessons, group clinics, junior golf programs, and beginner instruction.
• Recruit, supervise, train, and develop Pro Shop personnel, starters, rangers, and Legacy Pub employees.
• Oversee Pro Shop merchandising, purchasing, inventory management, and retail sales.
• Manage golf cart fleet operations, including scheduling, maintenance coordination, and rental tracking.
• Oversee food and beverage operations at Legacy Pub.
• Plan, coordinate, and promote special events and entertainment opportunities, such as Music on the Patio, to enhance the customer experience, attract new patrons, increase food and beverage revenue, and strengthen Park Hills Golf Course as a community gathering destination.
• Assist in developing and monitoring operating budgets, financial reports, and revenue projections.
• Work closely with the Golf Course Superintendent to coordinate course conditions, tournament preparation, and the overall golfing experience.
• Collaborate with the District's marketing staff to promote golf programs, special events, and opportunities to attract new customers.
• Maintain strong relationships with golfers, employees, community organizations, businesses, and other Park District departments.
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is an accomplished golf professional and proven leader who understands that a successful public golf operation requires much more than managing tee times and
operating a Pro Shop. We are looking for someone who combines strong business and organizational skills with a genuine enthusiasm for the game of golf, outstanding customer service, and the creativity to introduce programs and initiatives that attract and retain golfers.
Preferred qualifications include:
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Golf Management, Recreation Administration, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in golf operations, golf facility management, or a related leadership position, preferably at an 18-hole or larger golf facility.
• PGA Professional certification or PGA Associate status preferred.
• Demonstrated experience providing professional golf instruction, including individual lessons, group clinics, and youth programs.
• Experience organizing and promoting golf outings, tournaments, and leagues. Knowledge of golf point-of-sale systems, tee sheet management software, and Microsoft Office. Familiarity with RecTrac is desirable.
• Strong leadership, financial management, organizational, marketing, and communication skills.
• A commitment to outstanding customer service and creating a welcoming environment for golfers of all ages and abilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays during the golf season.
Why Join the Freeport Park District?
The next Head Golf Professional will have the opportunity to do more than manage an established golf facility. This individual will play an important leadership role in determining the future direction and success of Park Hills Golf Course.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to:
• Lead golf operations at one of Northwest Illinois' premier 36-hole public golf facilities. Work directly with a supportive Executive Director and management team.
• Build upon a well-established customer base while developing new opportunities to grow participation and revenue.
• Develop innovative golf programs, instructional opportunities, tournaments, and special events.
• Build, mentor, and lead a customer-focused golf operations team.
• Help establish priorities for future clubhouse, golf operations, equipment, and facility improvements.
• Make a visible and lasting impact on the golfing experience for thousands of golfers each year.
Compensation & Benefits
Starting Salary: $90,000–$94,000 annually, depending upon qualifications and experience.
In addition to base salary, the position offers opportunities for supplemental income through golf instruction, merchandise sales, and club repair:
• Golf Instruction: The Head Golf Professional retains 100% of individual lesson fees.
• Merchandise Sales: A 10% commission on Pro Shop merchandise profits.
• Club Repair: The Head Golf Professional retains 100% of club repair charges, less material costs.
The Freeport Park District also provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension system, paid vacation, holidays, and other benefits. The District supports continuing professional development and participation in professional golf organizations.
The position requires seasonal evening, weekend, and holiday responsibilities customary for golf operations. The primary golf season runs from April 1 through October 31.
Freeport Park District Mission Statement
The mission of the Freeport Park District is to promote the use of recreation in generating an exciting, dynamic quality of life by providing the highest quality facilities and programs to meet the ever-changing needs and interests of all ages and abilities. The Park District will preserve and protect land and resources for the enrichment of the community and future generations.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and professional references to:
Bruce Cubberley, Executive Director
Freeport Park District
bcubberley@freeportparkdistrict.org
Please include "Head Golf Pro Application" in the subject line.
Application Deadline: December 30, 2026
The Freeport Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a welcoming environment for all employees.
Park Hills Golf Course | Freeport Park District
Freeport, Illinois
Lead the Future of a Premier Northern Illinois Public Golf Facility
The Freeport Park District is seeking an experienced, energetic, and innovative Head Golf Professional to lead the golf operations of Park Hills Golf Course, a premier 36-hole public golf facility in Freeport, Illinois. This is an outstanding opportunity for an accomplished golf professional who is passionate about the game, committed to exceptional customer service, and motivated to grow participation, increase revenue, and enhance the overall golfing experience.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to build upon the strong traditions of Park Hills Golf Course while introducing new ideas, expanding golf programming, and helping shape the future of one of Northwest Illinois' most established public golf facilities.
About Park Hills Golf Course
Park Hills Golf Course is a 36-hole public golf facility situated on more than 300 acres of rolling terrain in Northwest Illinois. The facility features two distinctly different 18-hole championship courses, mature tree-lined fairways, extensive practice facilities, and a long-standing reputation for providing quality playing conditions and an outstanding public-golf experience.
Both courses were designed by C.D. Wagstaff in 1955, providing Park Hills with more than 70 years of golf history. The East Course is a classic parkland layout measuring 6,503 yards from the back tees. The par-72 course has a 70.8 course rating and 124 slope and features rolling, tree-lined fairways,strategically placed bunkers, and a variety of holes that reward thoughtful shot-making while remaining enjoyable for golfers of varying abilities.
The West Course provides a more demanding test, measuring 6,627 yards from the back tees. The par-72 layout has a 71.9 course rating and 128 slope. Elevation changes, mature trees, forced carries, strategically positioned bunkers, creeks, and undulating greens create a challenging and memorable golf experience. In addition to its 36 holes, Park Hills offers a 300-yard natural-grass practice range with 15 hitting stations, two large practice putting greens, a fully stocked Pro Shop, Legacy Pub, and outdoor patio. The facility serves daily public play as well as leagues, tournaments, charitable and corporate outings, and special events throughout the golf season. Park Hills has previously earned a 3½- star rating in Golf Digest's Places to Play for value and service.
The Position
Reporting directly to the Executive Director of the Freeport Park District, the Head Golf Professional is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and financial performance of golf operations at Park Hills Golf Course and Legacy Pub.
Responsibilities include overseeing daily golf operations, the Pro Shop, tee time management, golf cart fleet, leagues, tournaments, outings, instructional programs, merchandising, and food and beverage operations.
An important component of this position is developing strategies to increase rounds played, attract new golfers, expand tournaments and outings, and strengthen the financial performance of the facility. Working collaboratively with the Golf Course Superintendent, Park District leadership, and the Communications and Marketing Manager, the Head Golf Professional will help ensure Park Hills continues to provide an exceptional golf experience while remaining a competitive and financially sustainable public golf facility.
Key Responsibilities
• Direct daily golf operations for two 18-hole courses, including the Pro Shop, tee sheet management, golf cart fleet, and golfer services.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase rounds played, customer satisfaction, and overall golf revenue.
• Plan, organize, and administer golf leagues, tournaments, corporate outings, charitable events, and special golf programs.
• Actively recruit new tournaments, outings, leagues, and group events to expand participation and generate additional revenue.
• Develop and manage sponsorship and advertising opportunities, including tee markers, scorecards, tournaments, special events, and other golf course promotions.
• Actively cultivating relationships with local businesses and corporate partners.
• Provide professional golf instruction, including individual lessons, group clinics, junior golf programs, and beginner instruction.
• Recruit, supervise, train, and develop Pro Shop personnel, starters, rangers, and Legacy Pub employees.
• Oversee Pro Shop merchandising, purchasing, inventory management, and retail sales.
• Manage golf cart fleet operations, including scheduling, maintenance coordination, and rental tracking.
• Oversee food and beverage operations at Legacy Pub.
• Plan, coordinate, and promote special events and entertainment opportunities, such as Music on the Patio, to enhance the customer experience, attract new patrons, increase food and beverage revenue, and strengthen Park Hills Golf Course as a community gathering destination.
• Assist in developing and monitoring operating budgets, financial reports, and revenue projections.
• Work closely with the Golf Course Superintendent to coordinate course conditions, tournament preparation, and the overall golfing experience.
• Collaborate with the District's marketing staff to promote golf programs, special events, and opportunities to attract new customers.
• Maintain strong relationships with golfers, employees, community organizations, businesses, and other Park District departments.
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is an accomplished golf professional and proven leader who understands that a successful public golf operation requires much more than managing tee times and
operating a Pro Shop. We are looking for someone who combines strong business and organizational skills with a genuine enthusiasm for the game of golf, outstanding customer service, and the creativity to introduce programs and initiatives that attract and retain golfers.
Preferred qualifications include:
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Golf Management, Recreation Administration, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in golf operations, golf facility management, or a related leadership position, preferably at an 18-hole or larger golf facility.
• PGA Professional certification or PGA Associate status preferred.
• Demonstrated experience providing professional golf instruction, including individual lessons, group clinics, and youth programs.
• Experience organizing and promoting golf outings, tournaments, and leagues. Knowledge of golf point-of-sale systems, tee sheet management software, and Microsoft Office. Familiarity with RecTrac is desirable.
• Strong leadership, financial management, organizational, marketing, and communication skills.
• A commitment to outstanding customer service and creating a welcoming environment for golfers of all ages and abilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays during the golf season.
Why Join the Freeport Park District?
The next Head Golf Professional will have the opportunity to do more than manage an established golf facility. This individual will play an important leadership role in determining the future direction and success of Park Hills Golf Course.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to:
• Lead golf operations at one of Northwest Illinois' premier 36-hole public golf facilities. Work directly with a supportive Executive Director and management team.
• Build upon a well-established customer base while developing new opportunities to grow participation and revenue.
• Develop innovative golf programs, instructional opportunities, tournaments, and special events.
• Build, mentor, and lead a customer-focused golf operations team.
• Help establish priorities for future clubhouse, golf operations, equipment, and facility improvements.
• Make a visible and lasting impact on the golfing experience for thousands of golfers each year.
Compensation & Benefits
Starting Salary: $90,000–$94,000 annually, depending upon qualifications and experience.
In addition to base salary, the position offers opportunities for supplemental income through golf instruction, merchandise sales, and club repair:
• Golf Instruction: The Head Golf Professional retains 100% of individual lesson fees.
• Merchandise Sales: A 10% commission on Pro Shop merchandise profits.
• Club Repair: The Head Golf Professional retains 100% of club repair charges, less material costs.
The Freeport Park District also provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension system, paid vacation, holidays, and other benefits. The District supports continuing professional development and participation in professional golf organizations.
The position requires seasonal evening, weekend, and holiday responsibilities customary for golf operations. The primary golf season runs from April 1 through October 31.
Freeport Park District Mission Statement
The mission of the Freeport Park District is to promote the use of recreation in generating an exciting, dynamic quality of life by providing the highest quality facilities and programs to meet the ever-changing needs and interests of all ages and abilities. The Park District will preserve and protect land and resources for the enrichment of the community and future generations.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and professional references to:
Bruce Cubberley, Executive Director
Freeport Park District
bcubberley@freeportparkdistrict.org
Please include "Head Golf Pro Application" in the subject line.
Application Deadline: December 30, 2026
The Freeport Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a welcoming environment for all employees.