Facilities & Events Manager - Ice Arenas

Major Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the Fred Rust and Gold Ice Arenas, ensuring safe, clean, and operational environments for all users.
• Oversee ice maintenance activities including resurfacing (Zamboni), ice depth management, blade changes, painting, and seasonal adjustments.
• Perform and oversee facility maintenance and coordinate repairs with appropriate university departments or vendors.
• Supervise and train part-time staff and student employees in arena procedures including Zamboni operation, emergency protocols, customer service, and event support.
• Maintain inventory and coordinate maintenance of arena equipment including Zamboni, skate aids, and mechanical systems.
• Conduct pre-event and daily facility inspections, identifying and resolving issues related to ice quality, equipment function, and public safety.
• Produce and maintain operational logs, maintenance records, and daily shift reports.
• Serve as the lead, or assist event manager for ice arena events, including varsity hockey, figure skating shows, club competitions, youth tournaments, learn-to-skate sessions, and private rentals.
• Plan and implement all logistical aspects of each event, including staffing plans, client coordination, facility setup, and breakdown.
• Collaborate with internal units and external partners such as custodial, security, EHS, and vendors to ensure seamless event delivery.
• Manage the expectations and requests of clients during their events, providing exceptional service and timely issue resolution.
• Generate pre- and post-event documentation and coordinate with the Business Office for invoicing and reconciliation.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or GED with at least three years of job-related experience, or a bachelor’s degree with facility or event operations experience.
• Prior experience in ice arena operations including Zamboni use and maintenance, ice preparation, and mechanical system oversight is strongly preferred.
• Experience managing events, coordinating logistics, and working with customers or clients in a recreational, athletics, or public-facing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and train staff, organize workflows, and respond to dynamic operational needs.
• Proficiency in computer applications including Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and facility/event scheduling systems.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work effectively with diverse populations and within team environments.
• Comfortable working in physically demanding environments, including cold temperatures and outdoor conditions.