PAY GRADE: 26N
CONTEXT OF JOB:
The Facilities & Events Manager – Ice Arenas at the University of Delaware is a vital member of the Department of Athletics, Community & Campus Recreation, upholding and embracing the department’s mission of Achieving Excellence Together.
Under the general direction of the Assistant AD, Director - Ice Arenas, this position oversees the day-to-day operations and event management for the Fred Rust and Gold Ice Arenas and provides support for the Outdoor Pool Aquatics Center. The incumbent is the primary event manager for ice arena-based competitions, shows, rentals, and other scheduled activities, working closely with internal departments and external clients to ensure high-quality execution and facility readiness.
This position is highly operational and hands-on, requiring the ability to supervise staff, coordinate logistics, manage equipment, and directly contribute to daily facility functions.
The position requires the availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays in accordance with Ice Arenas event and facility schedules.
The standard working shift will be as follows: • Monday – Friday: 3pm - 1130pm (close the building)
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
Ice Arena Operations • 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.
Ice Arena Event Management • 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.
Outdoor Pool Aquatics Center Support Assist with seasonal opening, daily pool maintenance, and closing of the Outdoor Pool Aquatics Center.
QUALIFICATIONS: • High school diploma or GED with at least three years of job-related experience, or 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.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: • Must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays in accordance with event and facility schedules. • Required to drive and maintain proficiency with Zamboni ice resurfacing equipment. • May be required to lift and move heavy equipment or supplies, with or without assistance (up to 50 lbs). • Must be able to work in both indoor cold environments and outdoor seasonal conditions.
