Operations Manager (Winter Wonderland)

Job SummaryCarMax Park is seeking an experienced, hands-on Operations Manager to oversee the planning, execution, and daily operations of a large-scale winter activation at our brand-new ballpark. ResponsibilitiesOversee all daily operations of the NHL-size ice rink, tubing area, and winter attractions, including ice quality and temperature control, resurfacing schedules, equipment setup/breakdown, and opening and closing procedures. Lead, hire, train, schedule, and supervise all seasonal staff (ice rink attendants, skate rental staff, ice drivers, tubing attendants, and guest services), fostering a positive, safety-first, guest-focused team culture. Serve as the on-site operational lead during all operating hours (Thursday–Sunday), acting as the primary decision-maker for operational issues, guest experience, and service recovery. Ensure a safe, welcoming, and festive guest experience by developing and enforcing safety protocols, emergency procedures, crowd flow, capacity management, and clear guest communications. Oversee related operational areas, including the on-field bar, skate rental tent, and inventory management; coordinate with food & beverage partners while ensuring compliance with alcohol service laws and internal policies. Coordinate with third-party vendors and partners (winter market vendors, food trucks, entertainment partners) and serve as the operational liaison between internal departments and external stakeholders. Plan and manage operating schedules for rink sessions, tubing sessions, private rentals, and special events, including holiday activations, community events, and corporate rentals. Maintain operational checklists, logs, reporting, budgeting support, cost control, inventory tracking, and deliver post-season recaps with recommendations for future seasons. Qualifications5+ years of operations management experience in guest-facing environments such as sports venues, seasonal attractions, festivals, or live events; experience with ice rinks or similar cold-weather attractions preferred. Demonstrated ability to hire, train, schedule, and supervise teams in fast-paced, high-volume operations. Strong working knowledge of operational logistics, guest safety, and risk management; familiarity with ice maintenance, refrigeration systems, or ice resurfacers (Zamboni) preferred or willingness to obtain required certifications. Proven calm, decisive leadership style with the ability to problem-solve quickly and manage guest issues on site. Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage schedules, staffing, inventory, and operational reporting. Experience coordinating with food & beverage or alcohol service operations preferred, with an understanding of compliance and safety standards. Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays throughout the operating season. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.