Operations Manager

We are seeking a capable, hands-on Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operational systems of our outdoor recreation facility. This position requires someone who can see the operation from a 30,000-foot perspective while also being willing and able to step in, troubleshoot problems, work alongside staff, and ensure the property is operating safely and efficiently.

The Operations Manager will provide leadership across staffing, property and grounds, equipment and mechanical systems, safety, maintenance, and recreational activities. The goal of this position is to create a safe, consistent, well-organized operation that functions effectively without requiring the owner to manage daily operational details.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Operations & Leadership

• Oversee daily property and outdoor recreation operations.
• Manage, train, support, and hold operational staff accountable.
• Coordinate staffing and operational priorities based on business needs.
• Maintain a working knowledge of all activity areas and ensure each is properly staffed, equipped, and ready for guests.
• Identify operational problems and take ownership of developing and implementing solutions.

Property, Equipment & Maintenance

• Oversee preventive maintenance programs for facilities, vehicles, equipment, and operational systems.
• Perform or coordinate routine repairs and troubleshooting when appropriate.
• Manage grounds maintenance and general property readiness.
• Coordinate outside contractors and vendors when specialized services are required.
• Maintain appropriate inventory of tools, equipment, parts, and operational supplies.

Safety & Risk Management

• Maintain and enforce safety procedures throughout the property.
• Ensure required inspections, readiness checks, and operational documentation are completed consistently.
• Develop, maintain, and improve operational checklists, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and safety systems.
• Identify potential safety or operational risks and address concerns proactively.
• Ensure staff are properly trained and prepared to respond to incidents and emergencies.

After-Hours & Emergency Response

• Design and manage an effective after-hours response system.
• Establish clear escalation levels, on-call procedures, and staff responsibilities.
• Utilize automation and communication systems where appropriate to improve response efficiency.
• Ensure after-hours and emergency situations are handled appropriately without routine issues automatically defaulting to the owner.

Budgeting, Inventory & Reporting

• Assist with developing and managing operational budgets.
• Monitor expenses, labor, maintenance costs, supplies, and inventory.
• Maintain appropriate operational records and provide regular reporting to ownership.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce unnecessary costs, and strengthen operational consistency.

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who combines leadership ability with practical, hands-on problem-solving skills.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Previous leadership, supervisory, or operations experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot practical problems.
• Experience managing employees and establishing accountability.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• The ability to prioritize multiple operational needs.
• A proactive approach to maintenance, safety, and problem solving.
• Comfort working both independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work outdoors and assist directly with operational needs when necessary.
• The ability and willingness to learn unfamiliar equipment, systems, and recreational activities.

Previous experience with our specific recreational activities is not required. We are more interested in finding the right leader with strong operational instincts, mechanical aptitude, good judgment, and a willingness to learn.

Position Timeline

We plan to recruit for this position during the fall, with the selected candidate transitioning into the role in late fall or early winter.

The Operations Manager will train extensively during the off-season, learning the property, equipment, staff, activities, safety systems, and operational procedures. The expectation is for the individual to be prepared to assume full responsibility for day-to-day operations by spring.

What Success Looks Like

Success in this position means creating and maintaining an operation that is safe, organized, consistent, accountable, and prepared.

The Operations Manager should become the primary point of leadership for daily operational matters—developing systems, solving problems, supporting staff, maintaining the property and equipment, and ensuring that day-to-day operational details are handled effectively without requiring ongoing owner involvement.

Pay: $35,000.00 - $40,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person