Operations Manager (Rides & Aquatics)

Description

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Reports To: General Manager

Direct Reports: Assistant Manager of Rides and Assistant Manager of Aquatics

Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure is seeking a dynamic and experienced Operations Manager – Rides & Aquatics to lead two of the park's most critical operational divisions. This leadership position is responsible for overseeing the safe, efficient, and guest-focused operation of all amusement rides and water attractions while developing a high-performing leadership team dedicated to operational excellence.

If you're a passionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys developing people, and believes that safety and guest service go hand in hand, we'd love to hear from you. 

As the Operations Manager, you will:

• Lead the overall operation of the Ride Operations and Aquatics departments
• Recruit, train, mentor, lead, and manage the ride and aquatics team for safe park operation
• Directly supervise the Assistant Manager of Ride Operations and the Assistant Manager of Aquatics  
• Build, coach, and develop a culture centered on safety, accountability, teamwork, and exceptional guest service
• Ensure all attractions operate safely and efficiently while maintaining compliance with company policies, manufacturer guidelines, and regulatory requirements 
• Oversee staffing, scheduling, labor management, and departmental budgets 
• Monitor operational performance and implement strategies to improve efficiency, guest satisfaction, and attraction capacity 
• Partner with Maintenance to maximize ride and attraction availability 
• Manage annual operational permit process and routine government inspections 
• Lead emergency response efforts and incident investigations when necessary 
• Support park-wide special events, seasonal operations, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Develop future leaders through coaching, mentoring, and performance management  
• Participate in park wide MOD program
• Provide operational leadership for the park's seasonal Halloween haunt event by overseeing staffing, frontline team performance, guests flow, and daily operations to delivery a safe, efficient, and exceptional guest experience
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• At least 18 years of age
• Three (3) or more years of progressive leadership experience in amusement parks, water parks, hospitality, attractions, or similar high-volume operations 
• Experience managing multiple operational departments and leading large teams 
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills 
• Proven ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment 
• Strong financial acumen, including labor management and budgeting 
• Ability to coach, mentor, and inspire leaders and frontline employees 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and workforce management software 
• Valid driver's license 
• Current StarGuard ELITE Lifeguard and StarGuard ELITE Lifeguard Instructor certifications, or the ability to successfully obtain both certifications within sixty (60) days of employment 
• Ability to maintain all required StarGuard ELITE certifications throughout employment 
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications, or the ability to obtain and maintain these certifications within sixty (60) days of employment