Ice Rink Manager & Events Coordinator

The City of Gunnison is seeking an energetic and community minded Ice Rink Manager & Events Coordinator to lead one of the community's most dynamic recreational facilities. This unique position offers the opportunity to manage all aspects of a seasonal ice rink while creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors year round. From maintaining exceptional ice conditions and coordinating hockey and skating programs to overseeing exciting community events and summer activities, this role is perfect for someone who enjoys both hands on operations and creative event management. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with experience in facility operations, recreation programming, or ice rink management who thrives in a fast paced environment. This position plays a key role in enhancing quality of life in Gunnison by building partnerships, supervising staff, managing events, and ensuring a safe and welcoming facility for all users. If you are passionate about recreation, community engagement, and creating outstanding experiences in one of Colorado's most beautiful mountain communities, we encourage you to apply.

General Purpose:

The Ice Rink Manager is responsible for the year-round operation, maintenance, programming, and administration of a seasonal ice rink facility. During the winter operating season (approximately seven months), this position oversees all aspects of ice rink operations, including ice maintenance, staffing, scheduling, programming, and customer service. During the off-season (approximately five months), the Ice Rink Manager leads facility conversions and coordinates community events, recreational programming, assists the parks department when needed, and manages alternative uses of the rink space. This position requires strong leadership, technical knowledge of ice-making systems, and the ability to manage a dynamic, multi-use facility that serves a wide range of community needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Winter Season (Ice Operations)

• Oversee daily ice rink operations, ensuring a safe, clean, and high-quality skating surface.
• Operate and maintain ice resurfacing equipment (e.g., Zamboni) and refrigeration systems.
• Monitor ice conditions and perform routine ice maintenance, including flooding, edging, and repairs.
• Develop and manage rink schedules, including public skate, and coordinating youth and adult hockey ice slots with the West Elk Hockey Association, RE1J High School Hockey, Western Colorado University Hockey, figure skating, special events and other user groups.
• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate seasonal rink staff.
• Enforce facility policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Coordinate with user groups (hockey associations, schools, clubs) to ensure effective communication and scheduling.
• Manage cash handling, admissions, and point-of-sale operations (if applicable). Off-Season (Events & Facility Use)
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee non-ice uses of the facility, including events, festivals, dry-floor programming, and rentals.
• Manage facility conversion from ice to dry surface and back, including equipment storage and setup.
• Develop and implement creative programming to maximize facility use and revenue during the off-season.
• Coordinate logistics for events, including vendors, permits, staffing, and equipment.
• Collaborate with community partners to host events and expand programming opportunities. Administrative & Management Duties
• Prepare and manage the facility budget, including revenue tracking and expense control.
• Assist with capital planning and equipment replacement schedules.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and operational standards.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation related to operations and events.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including safety and risk management standards.
• Seek sponsorships, partnerships, and grant opportunities where applicable.
• Oversee the concession stand including ordering and managing point of sale transactions. Maintenance & Safety
• Oversee routine and preventative maintenance of the facility, equipment, and systems.
• Coordinate with maintenance staff or contractors for repairs and capital improvements.
• Ensure the facility meets all safety standards and is prepared for emergency situations.
• Respond to incidents, accidents, and customer concerns in a professional manner.

Job Qualifications Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, Facility Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3-5 years of experience in ice rink operations, facility management, or a related field.
• Experience operating ice resurfacing equipment and maintaining ice surfaces.

Supervisory or management experience.

Other Necessary Requirements:

• Knowledge of ice-making systems, refrigeration, and rink operations. Certified Ice Technician (CIT) preferred. CPR/AED and First Aid Certification (required or obtained within a specified timeframe).
• Valid driver's license.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Ability to operate ice skating sharpening machines.
• Ability to manage staff and foster a positive team environment.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to plan and execute events and recreational programs.
• Basic budgeting and financial management skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Working Conditions Physical Activities:

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in cold environments for extended periods during the winter season. Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform manual labor as needed. Exposure to cold temperatures during ice season and outdoor weather conditions during events. Variable schedule based on operational and event needs.

Tools and Equipment Used:

Ice resurfacer (e.g., Zamboni) and related maintenance tools. Ice edging tools, shovels, squeegees, hoses, and ice repair equipment. Refrigeration plant controls and monitoring systems. Hand and power tools for facility maintenance (e.g., drills, saws, wrenches). Event setup equipment, including staging, dasher board panels, flooring systems, and seating. Light maintenance and custodial equipment (e.g., pressure washers, floor scrubbers). Computer systems and software for scheduling, registration, and point-of-sale operations.

Ice Skating Sharpener Supervision Received:

The Director of Parks & Recreation