
Why Some Cities Go Viral- and Others Get Left Behind
The first time a visitor shares your city on their phone, they are not just posting a photo. They are shaping your reputation in real time. For city managers and public leaders, tourism is no longer just about attractions. It is about orchestrating experiences that people cannot wait to talk about, return to, and recommend.
Smarter Planning Starts with Data, Not Guesswork
Cities that consistently attract visitors are not relying on intuition alone. They are using artificial intelligence to read the rhythm of tourism before it happens. By analyzing search trends, booking patterns, social media activity, and even weather forecasts, AI can help cities anticipate when crowds will surge and what those visitors are looking for.
Imagine knowing weeks in advance that a surge of fall travelers is driven by interest in local food festivals rather than traditional sightseeing. That insight allows you to adjust staffing, extend hours, and spotlight local vendors who can meet that demand. AI-powered scheduling tools can also align event calendars with peak travel windows, ensuring that your biggest experiences do not compete with each other but instead build momentum across a visitor’s stay.
For city leaders, this means fewer missed opportunities and more intentional coordination across departments.
Social Media Is Your Front Door
Before a visitor ever steps into your city, they have already experienced it online. Social media is no longer a marketing add-on. It is your most visible public square.
Cities that stand out treat social media as a storytelling engine rather than a broadcast channel. Instead of simply promoting events, they highlight moments. A street musician at sunset. A behind-the-scenes look at a local chef preparing for a festival. A quick video showing how easy it is to navigate public transit from the airport to downtown.
User-generated content plays a powerful role here. When visitors see people like themselves enjoying your city, trust builds instantly. Encouraging visitors to share their experiences through hashtags, interactive installations, or photo-friendly public spaces turns every tourist into a potential ambassador.
The key is consistency. A city’s online presence should feel as welcoming, vibrant, and intuitive as the in-person experience.
Designing Experiences People Remember and Repeat
Tourists rarely remember a checklist of attractions. They remember how a place made them feel.
Creating those moments requires intentional design. Wayfinding should be simple and intuitive. Events should feel connected rather than scattered. Public spaces should invite people to linger, explore, and engage.
Consider something as simple as arrival. Is the journey from the airport or train station seamless and welcoming, or confusing and transactional? Small improvements such as clear signage, mobile-friendly guides, and coordinated transit options can transform first impressions.
Layering experiences also matters. A food festival that connects to a walking tour, which then leads into a live performance, creates a full-day narrative rather than isolated events. Cities that think this way turn short visits into extended stays.
Infrastructure That Supports Both Visitors and Residents
Tourism success cannot come at the expense of livability. The most effective cities invest in infrastructure that benefits everyone.
Reliable public transit, walkable streets, and strong digital connectivity make it easier for visitors to explore while improving daily life for residents. High-speed internet allows tourists to share their experiences instantly, amplifying your city’s visibility without additional marketing spend.
Sustainability must be embedded into these decisions. Green spaces, bike-friendly routes, and energy-efficient facilities reduce environmental impact while enhancing the visitor experience. Increasingly, travelers are choosing destinations that reflect their values, including environmental responsibility.
When infrastructure is designed with both visitors and residents in mind, tourism becomes an asset rather than a strain.
Inclusion Is Not Optional, It Is Strategic
A city that welcomes everyone will attract more people. Inclusion is not just a social priority. It is a competitive advantage.
Engaging community members in tourism planning leads to more authentic experiences. Local voices bring cultural depth that cannot be manufactured. Whether it is neighborhood-led tours, local art installations, or community-driven events, these elements create a richer and more distinctive identity.
Accessibility is equally critical. Events, transportation, and public spaces should be designed so that people of all abilities can participate fully. Multilingual resources, inclusive programming, and equitable representation in marketing ensure that more visitors see themselves reflected in your city.
When residents feel included, they become advocates. When visitors feel included, they become repeat guests.
Marketing That Feels Like an Invitation, Not an Advertisement
Modern tourism marketing is less about promotion and more about connection. Cities that succeed are those that tell stories people want to step into.
Partnerships with creators, local businesses, and cultural institutions can amplify your reach while maintaining authenticity. Influencers and travel storytellers offer credibility, but the most powerful narratives often come from residents themselves.
Search engine visibility, mobile-friendly content, and seamless booking integrations reduce friction in the decision-making process. The easier it is to discover, plan, and experience your city, the more likely visitors are to follow through.
Every touchpoint should reinforce a simple message: you are welcome here, and there is something here for you.
Looking Ahead: Cities That Adapt Will Lead
Tourism is evolving quickly, shaped by shifting traveler expectations, economic pressures, and global trends. Cities that remain static will struggle to compete.
The leaders who succeed will be those who treat tourism as a living system. They will test new ideas, measure outcomes, and adapt in real time. They will balance growth with preservation, ensuring that what makes their city special is not lost in the pursuit of more visitors.
Technology will continue to accelerate this transformation, but the foundation remains human. Connection, authenticity, and experience will always matter most.
The Opportunity in Front of You
Every street, every event, every post, and every policy decision contributes to the story your city tells the world. The question is whether that story is being shaped intentionally or left to chance.
You have the tools to anticipate demand, the platforms to amplify your message, and the community to bring it to life. The cities that win are not necessarily the biggest or the most famous. They are the ones that are most deliberate.
Start with one decision today. Improve one experience. Tell one better story. Then build from there.
Because the next visitor deciding where to go is already looking. The only question is whether they will choose you.
References
Smith, John. “The Role of AI in Tourism Planning.” Journal of Tourism Studies 45, no. 3 (2022): 233–245.
Johnson, Emily. “Optimizing Event Scheduling with AI.” Tourism Management 32, no. 4 (2021): 567–578.
Brown, Lisa. “Infrastructure Development for Rural Tourism.” Rural Development Review 18, no. 2 (2022): 99–112.
Green, Andrew. “Sustainable Tourism Practices.” Environmental Impact Journal 27, no. 1 (2021): 45–58.
Clark, Susan. “Community Engagement in Tourism.” Journal of Community Development 19, no. 2 (2023): 130–142.
Adams, Michael. “Economic Impact of Tourism on Local Communities.” Economic Perspectives 38, no. 3 (2022): 78–89.
Thompson, Rachel. “Innovative Marketing Strategies in Tourism.” Marketing Insights 14, no. 1 (2023): 22–36.
Williams, David. “The Role of Influencers in Tourism Promotion.” Social Media Strategies 29, no. 2 (2023): 67–79.
Martin, Jessica. “Future Directions in Tourism Development.” Global Tourism Journal 40, no. 1 (2023): 200–215.
Lee, Robert. “Balancing Tourism and Conservation.” Conservation Perspectives 15, no. 3 (2023): 110–125.
Garcia, Maria. “Innovation in Tourism: A Call to Action.” Tourism Innovation Review 5, no. 4 (2023): 50–62.
Anderson, Paul. “Collaboration in the Tourism Sector.” Collaborative Economics 23, no. 1 (2022): 48–60.
More from Tourism
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Tourism
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
ABOUT THE ROLE The Baltimore Convention Center (BCC) is seeking an Event Coordinator to provide event management services for internal and smaller meetings, as well as administrative assistance to the Sales and Services department. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Convention Services, this role involves logistical planning for event execution, client communication, and supporting sales and convention services managers. This is a non-civil service position offering the opportunity to work in a vibrant, diverse atmosphere while serving the citizens of Baltimore. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Event Management - Provide logistical planning and event coverage for internal events, small one-day events, multi-day events, and events occurring in conjunction with larger conventions - Provide back-up event coverage and assistance to Convention Services Managers (CSMs) as assigned - Assist with conducting facility tours for groups and interested parties - Implement event-related planning, scheduling, and sending client reminder notices - Assist with pre- and post-event walkthroughs - Communicate with clients on behalf of Convention Services Managers - Complete and disseminate information to proper internal and external departments Administrative Support - Coordinate Fire Marshall sign-off on floor plans - Assist with coordinating meeting room arrangements for internal meetings - Assist with creating amenity packages for clients and tracking related inventory - Research events for Sales Managers and Convention Services Managers as needed - Assist with developing diagrams for Sales and Convention Services Managers - Create, prepare, and distribute weekly and monthly reports - Compile event coverage schedules and times for service partners, managers, supervisors, and technicians - Create and prepare materials and presentations for site tours and pre-convention meetings - Perform other administrative functions for the department as assigned MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - A bachelor’s degree in business management, facility management, hospitality, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Experience: - One year of experience in event management, business management, facility management, hospitality, or a related field. Equivalency: - Commensurate experience in areas such as coordinating meetings or conferences, supporting large-scale events, working in venue or facility operations, or providing customer service in a hospitality environment may substitute for the formal education requirements. PREFERRED SKILLS - Experience in event management within the hospitality industry - Knowledge of standard business operating systems and software (Windows) - Knowledge of web-based applications (specifically Momentus and Event Draw) - Strong oral and written communication skills - Ability to establish effective working relationships with co-workers and clients - Ability to work flexible schedules and shift arrangements as determined by events - Experience with Adobe Creative Suite is a plus SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Non-Civil Service Position - Background Check: Eligible candidates under final consideration must complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint screening. - Probation: All selected persons must complete a 6-month mandatory probation. - Schedule: Must be able to work flexible schedules and shifts based on event needs. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review based on minimum qualifications. - Standard City of Baltimore hiring procedures apply. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via the City of Baltimore careers portal. - Job Requisition ID: R0018397 - Application Deadline: October 13, 2026 - Questions: Contact the Department of Human Resources Office of Recruitment at (410) 396-3860 or via email. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Baltimore Convention Center (Sales and Services) - Location: Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, MD - Type: Full-Time - Benefits: Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, FSA plans, wellness programs, support groups, and workshops.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC), a division of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, is recruiting for a Culinary Arts Instructor located in Seward. This position is part of the Alaska Vocational Technical Teacher's Unit. The instructor is responsible for planning, developing, and delivering the Culinary Arts program. The role involves maintaining curriculum, designing and maintaining industry-based labs, facilitating advisory board meetings, and maintaining student records while collaborating with the current instructor to ensure high-quality instruction. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Plan, develop, and deliver the Culinary Arts program. - Maintain and develop program curriculum. - Design, build, and maintain practical industry-based labs and kitchen areas. - Facilitate program advisory board meetings. - Maintain student training records. - Collaborate closely with the current instructor to support consistent, high-quality instruction. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Four years of journey-level trade experience in the applicable field. - OR a bachelor's degree from an accredited college in the applicable field, plus two years of journey-level trade experience, plus two years of professional experience developing, coordinating, and presenting adult training or vocational education programs. - OR an industry-recognized professional certification in the applicable field, plus two years of journey-level trade experience, plus two years of professional experience developing, coordinating, and presenting adult training or vocational education programs. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess a valid driver's license, with proof of licensure required prior to reporting to duty. - Must possess competencies in education and training, technical competence, leadership, partnering, and food service. - At the time of the interview, must provide a list of three professional references, including the most recent supervisor, and a copy of the last three performance evaluations or two letters of reference if evaluations are unavailable. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Submit a complete application through Workplace Alaska. 2. The applicant pool is reviewed regularly, and the recruitment may close early if a qualified applicant is found. 3. Selected candidates will be invited to an interview and must provide the required references and performance evaluations. HOW TO APPLY - Apply exclusively through the Workplace Alaska website or via a hardcopy paper application. - Ensure all required documentation, including transcripts if using education to meet qualifications, is attached to the application or emailed to the contact person before 5:00 p.m. on the closing date. - Do not write "see resume" on the application, as a resume does not substitute for a complete application. - For application assistance, contact the Workplace Alaska hotline at 800-587-0430 or email recruitment.services@alaska.gov. - For specific position information, contact Ayla Broughton at 907-224-6155 or ayla.broughton@avtec.edu. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: State of Alaska, Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of AVTEC. - Work Location: Seward, Alaska. - Bargaining Unit: Alaska Vocational Technical Teacher's Unit (AVTECTA). - Benefits: Paid leave accrual, retirement, health benefits, access to AVTEC recreational facilities, and tuition waivers for dependents. - Equal Opportunity: The State of Alaska is an equal opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
About the Role The City of Charleston is seeking a PC Support Manager to provide management and support for the City's personal computer hardware and software systems. This role leads the PC Support group staff in effectively installing and supporting all end-user information technology resources, ensuring smooth operations and coordinating with other IT department groups. Key Responsibilities - Manage PC Support group staff to effectively install and support all end-user information technology resources. - Manage and coordinate work orders and service orders with the Help Desk. - Manage response procedures and schedule maintenance programs for personal computers and peripheral equipment. - Train and orient employees on PC equipment, software, and new technology networks. - Interact with software vendors and make software recommendations to the City. - Maintain City PC Software and PC Hardware Inventory Databases. - Troubleshoot operating systems, software configurations, monitor PC performance, and load new software. - Manage and coordinate the installation of all hardware, including PCs, printers, scanners, and monitors. - Manage and coordinate the installation of all software packages, including operating systems and applications. - Respond to client inquiries concerning system operations and diagnose hardware, software, and operator problems. - Coordinate activities between the Help Desk, network services, and other Information Technology department groups. - Research innovative solutions and new releases in personal computing and printing technology. Minimum Qualifications - Education: Bachelor's Degree (BA/BS) or equivalent in computer science, programming, or a related field. - Experience: 4 years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. - License: Valid driver's license. - Technical Skills: Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office or similar software. - Technical Skills: Reasonable knowledge of software for databases, design, development, and Internet use. Special Requirements - Preferred Experience: Experience with Adobe Software, including Acrobat Pro, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere. - Preferred Certifications: Windows Operating Systems Certifications and Windows Applications Certifications. - Preferred Hardware Experience: Experience with Dell PCs, hardware, and HP printers. - Schedule: May require working evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled. - Emergency Duties: Subject to 24-hour shifts or other emergency schedules during major storms or emergency situations to meet the City's needs. Selection Process 1. Application Review: Evaluation of the submitted application, education, and IT support experience. 2. Interview: Qualified candidates will be invited to interview to assess technical knowledge and management capabilities. 3. Final Selection: Candidates are selected based on their qualifications, technical expertise, and alignment with department needs. How to Apply - Submit your application online through the official City of Charleston careers portal. - Ensure your application clearly details your IT management experience, technical certifications, and hardware/software expertise. - Highlight any experience with Adobe software, Windows certifications, and Dell or HP hardware. Employment Details - Department: City of Charleston, Information Technology - Position Type: Full-time - Work Schedule: Standard business hours, with potential evening, weekend, holiday, and 24-hour emergency shifts as required. - Equal Opportunity: The City of Charleston is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEOC) as a fundamental policy to be implemented and observed in daily operations.
ABOUT THE ROLE Teach High School Career and Technology Education (CTE) in Hospitality and Business at Lahainaluna High School. The Hawaii State Department of Education is committed to hiring highly qualified teachers to support student learning, career readiness, and development in CTE pathways. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Deliver comprehensive CTE instruction in Hospitality and Business. - Maintain alignment with Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB) requirements and educational standards. - Foster an inclusive, equitable learning environment in accordance with state and federal non-discrimination policies. - Participate in school-wide activities, professional development, and the continuous improvement of teaching practices. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's Degree. - Valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit upon hire. - If hired without completing a Teacher Education Program, a maximum of 3 years is allowed to obtain a valid Hawaii teaching license. - Must enroll in an aligned program and demonstrate active pursuit toward meeting HTSB licensing requirements within each year of employment. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must obtain or hold a valid Hawaii Teaching License to receive salary differentials and bonuses. - Continuous enrollment and active progress in an approved teacher preparation program if not fully licensed at the time of hire. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review by the Hawaii State Department of Education. - Verification of educational credentials and Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit status. - Standard district interviewing and selection procedures for teaching positions. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the Hawaii State Department of Education hiring portal or www.teachinhawaii.org. - Apply for a Hawaii Teaching License through the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board website (www.hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org) if not already held. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Hawaii State Department of Education - Location: Lahainaluna High, 980 Lahainaluna Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761 - District / Complex Area: Teacher / Maui / HLLM - Job Type: Full-time 10-month - Position Percentage: 100% - Job Number: 2026-00950 - Opening Date: 07/16/2026 - Closing Date: Continuous - Pay Schedule: Paydays are on the 5th and 20th (or previous business day) of every month. The first paycheck is expected within the first 3 pay periods of the start date. - Equal Opportunity: The Department does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, arrest and court record, or National Guard participation.
ABOUT THE ROLE Supports the Director of Production Services in overseeing technical operations, staff management, and production planning across all Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) venues, including the Robinson Center, Statehouse Convention Center, and First Security Amphitheater. The role ensures the safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of live events and productions by managing daily operations, mentoring staff, and implementing departmental strategies and standards. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Oversee technical operations, staff management, and production planning across LRCVB venues. - Ensure the safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of live events and productions. - Manage daily operations and mentor production staff. - Implement and maintain departmental strategies, policies, and operational standards. - Serve as Essential Personnel under the LRCVB Inclement Weather policy. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in Technical Theatre, Live Event Production, Fine Arts, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). - Four (4) years of progressive experience in live event production, broadcasting, performing arts, or a related area. - Two (2) years of supervisory experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess a valid Arkansas Class D (Non-Commercial Vehicle) Driver's License before employment and maintain licensure for the duration of employment. - Must show proof of valid automobile insurance before being approved to drive any LRCVB vehicle. - Must be available to work evenings, holidays, and weekends as required. - This is a Safety-Sensitive Job for purposes of the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment. - This position is considered Essential Personnel under the LRCVB Inclement Weather policy. SELECTION PROCESS - Applicant answers to supplemental questions will be used to screen for minimum qualifications electronically. - The position may require one or more pre-employment screenings, including a drug and alcohol screening or a background investigation. - A list of qualified applicants will be considered active for up to six (6) months and may be used to fill future openings with the same or similar minimum qualifications. HOW TO APPLY - Online applications only via the Careers/LittleRock account. - Applicants must include a complete work history, which may impact the initial salary offer amount for the successful candidate. - All communication regarding application status will be sent to candidates via the text message or email address listed on their account. - Applicants may check their application status by logging into their Careers/LittleRock account or by contacting Human Resources at (501) 371-4590 if experiencing computer difficulties. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, AR - Job Type: Full Time - Regular Position - Job Number: CVB-2026-07 - Department: Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau - Division: Operations - Opening Date: 07/23/2026 - Closing Date: 8/23/2026 11:59 PM Central - FLSA Status: Exempt - Bargaining Unit: LRCVB - Supervisory Responsibility: Yes - Employer: City of Little Rock
ABOUT THE ROLE This role patrols touring-related areas to identify code violations regarding property, horse-drawn carriages, tour buses, tour coaches, and walking tours. The officer issues citations, responds to citizen inquiries, conducts inspections, and ensures compliance with City tourism and livability ordinances. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Issue citations and Livability ordinance summons for violations of the tourism ordinance - Respond to citizen inquiries regarding the tourism industry - Conduct inspections to ensure that tour vehicles are properly permitted - Patrol residential and commercial areas on bicycle to identify tourism and code violations - Inspect horse-drawn carriages and carriage operators to ensure compliance with City tourism ordinances - Respond to calls for tourism and code enforcement assistance from the Fire Department, Police Department, Building Official, and other agencies - Refer cases to the Livability court, issue summonses to code violators, and provide court testimony as necessary - Follow up on each case to verify corrections have been made to comply with codes - Maintain assigned vehicles and equipment - Prepare and process inspection reports, summonses, citations, and various other records and correspondences MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Associate's Degree (AA/AS) and 6 months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and training. 2. Valid state-issued driver's license. 3. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office or similar software. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - May require working evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled - In the event of major storms or other emergency situations, this position may be subject to 24-hour shifts or any other emergency schedule necessary to meet the City's needs - Ability to patrol residential and commercial areas on a bicycle - Ability to testify in Livability court and issue legal summonses SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application Review: Evaluation of the submitted application to ensure minimum qualifications are met. 2. Interview and Assessment: Standard City of Charleston hiring procedures to assess code enforcement, investigative, and public interaction skills. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit a completed online application through the official City of Charleston careers portal. 2. Ensure all relevant experience, education, and technical skills are clearly detailed in your application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Charleston - Work Schedule: May require evenings, weekends, and holidays; subject to emergency shifts during major storms - Work Environment: Field-based, patrolling on bicycle and in vehicles throughout residential and commercial areas - Benefits: Not specified in the posting - Equal Employment Opportunity: The City of Charleston is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity as a fundamental policy implemented and observed in daily operations.
ABOUT THE ROLE The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is hiring hundreds of temporary positions to ensure the success of the 2026 New York State Fair, running from August 26th to September 7th. This annual 13-day event preserves and promotes New York's agricultural heritage, showcasing livestock, produce, and youth competitions. Temporary employees are vital to the execution of the Fair, with many roles involving active outdoor work in various weather conditions across multiple departments. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities vary by department, including: - Agriculture: Clean barns and tend to animals in poultry, rabbit, beef cattle, dairy cattle, and horse departments. - Guest Relations and Ticket Takers: Welcome guests, provide facility information, and scan tickets at entry points. - Safety: Assist guests while following all safety protocols. - Bag Check: Guard entry points, verify visitor credentials, and check bags. - Chevy Security: Perform security services at Chevy Court and Suburban Park concert locations. - Tram Conductor: Assist passengers on and off perimeter trams. - Tram Driver: Safely transport passengers on a truck-pulled wagon to and from tram stops. - Sensory Room: Monitor and assist guests in inclusive sensory programming areas, warmly interacting with guests who may have sensory-processing differences, autism, PTSD, or other conditions. - State Fair Merchandise Truck: Operate POS systems, collect payments, maintain inventory, and keep merchandise clean and stocked. - Camping: Assist with campground operations, verify guest credentials, and provide directions. - Potato Booth: Bake potatoes, prepare toppings, maintain a clean environment, provide customer service, and handle cash transactions. - Events: Manage logistics of special events, greet and host entertainment, speak to large groups, and complete event paperwork. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Qualifications vary by the specific role applied for. General eligibility is required, with specific roles requiring: - CDL Class B License with a "P" Endorsement (Tram Driver) - 8-hour security course completion, unexpired security guard license, active military membership, or active/retired police officer status (Bag Check) - 16-hour New York State Security Guard License, active military membership, or active/retired police officer status (Chevy Security) SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to work actively outdoors in various weather conditions. - Some positions require additional credentials or licenses as noted in the minimum qualifications. - Some positions may require a background check to verify identity. SELECTION PROCESS - Review of the online application and uploaded resume. HOW TO APPLY - Copy and paste the application link into a web browser to apply online. - Upload a resume within the online application. - Application Link: https://recruitingbypaycor.com/career/SubmitResume.action?clientId=8a7883d07a219b0d017a53a2e3bb0f9a&id=8a78859f9d4aea0c019d632817d30ca9&specialization= - For questions, contact Lauren Denny in Human Resources at (315) 728-4254 or HarvestYourPotential@agriculture.ny.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Agency: Department of Agriculture & Markets - Employment Type: Full-Time, Temporary - Bargaining Unit: OSU - Operational Services Unit (CSEA) - Jurisdictional Class: Labor Class - Schedule: Variable workweek, 40 hours per week, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM - Location: 581 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13209 (Onondaga County) - Travel Percentage: 0% - Flextime, Mandatory Overtime, Compressed Workweek, and Telecommuting: Not allowed - Applications Due: September 7, 2026 - Equal Opportunity Employer: The Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodations for qualified persons with disabilities.
ABOUT THE ROLE This full-time position is located at Yatesville Lake State Park Golf Course in Louisa, Kentucky, an Arthur Hills-designed course. The Golf Course Superintendent will maintain and oversee the course, leading a group of maintenance personnel to perform all tasks necessary to present guests with an exceptional golfing experience. The role requires a motivated individual with a hands-on leadership style. The course features USGA specification L93 bentgrass putting greens, Latitude 36 bermudagrass tees and fairways, cool season roughs, and a total Better Billy Bunker renovation completed in 2025. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Staff training and supervision. - Plant regulatory product applications. - Equipment operation. - Irrigation application, repair, and maintenance. - Golf course set-up activities. - Record keeping. - Creating and managing a budget and managing an agronomic plan. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Graduate of a college or university with an associate degree in plant science, turf management, or a related field. - Experience: One year of experience as a Golf Course Assistant Superintendent. - Substitute Education for Experience: None. - Substitute Experience for Education: Three years as a golf course superintendent or golf course assistant superintendent, in addition to a Certificate of Turfgrass Management from an accredited university, can substitute for the required education. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. - Must obtain a Kentucky Pesticide Applicator License (N-18) within six months of employment. - Must maintain any required licensure, certification, or other credentials for the length of employment. - Work is typically performed outside in a variety of climatic conditions. - Work involves the use of potentially toxic materials such as insecticides, fungicides, and fertilizers. SELECTION PROCESS - Evaluation of education, experience, and skills, including communication, attention to detail, time management, leadership, teamwork, decision-making, and preventative maintenance experience. - The position has an initial and promotional probationary period of 9 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111. HOW TO APPLY - Applications must be submitted through the official state employment portal using job requisition number req80033. - For questions about this advertisement, contact Missy Kennedy at Missy.kennedy@ky.gov or 606-673-1492. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Tourism, Arts, & Heritage Cabinet | Kentucky Department of Parks - Location: PO Box 767, Louisa, KY 41230 USA (Yatesville Lake State Park Golf Course) - Job Type: Full-Time, Executive Branch, Eligible for Overtime Pay, 18A, 37.5 HR/WK - Job Number: req80033 - Pay Grade: 14 - Opening Date: 07/28/2026 - Closing Date: 08/17/2026 at 11:59 PM ET - Benefits: Eligible for numerous benefits with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, including the Department of Parks "Park Familiarization Program" for full-time employees. - Equal Opportunity: An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D.





