The Operations Planner is responsible for ensuring seamless and efficient operational planning and workforce management across the resort. The role focuses on resource scheduling, consolidating reports, and acting as a subject matter expert in staffing solutions. Working collaboratively with cross-functional teams, the Operations Planner drives operational excellence by improving resource planning, optimizing cost efficiency, and ensuring alignment with the resort's strategic goals.
Workforce Planning & Scheduling
- Create daily staffing rosters for all resort departments.
- Make sure the right number of frontline employees are scheduled based on business needs and labor budgets.
- Review and submit hours for approval so payroll is accurate.
- Manage employee breaks while maintaining coverage and complying with labor laws.
- Develop training plans and coordinate training for new MCs.
Resource Management
- Identify staffing shortages or overstaffing before they impact operations.
- Work with the People/HR team to initiate recruiting when additional employees are needed.
- Create backup staffing plans for unexpected changes, such as call-outs, changes in demand, or operational disruptions.
Operational Efficiency
- Find ways to make scheduling and staffing more efficient.
- Work with department leaders to balance:
- Revenue
- Labor costs
- Guest experience
- Analyze staffing levels and performance using metrics such as RPC and guest KPIs.
Systems & Process Improvement
- Help develop and improve scheduling/resource-planning tools.
- Make sure workforce-planning processes align with Merlin's culture and values.
Compliance & Reporting
- Ensure schedules comply with California labor laws and resort requirements.
- Track staffing metrics and provide reports/insights to management.
- Keep accurate records for audits and compliance purposes.
Health & Safety
- Follow Merlin's Health, Safety & Security policies.
- Understand and elevate workplace risks.
- Ensure accidents/incidents are properly reported.
- Proactively identify and communicate opportunities to improve workplace safety.
Skills And Competencies
- Workforce Planning Expertise: Ability to create efficient schedules, optimize resource allocation, and proactively address staffing challenges to meet business demands.
- Operational Excellence: Demonstrated ability to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: Proficiency in analyzing workforce data, identifying trends, and leveraging insights to drive resource and cost efficiency.
- Attention to Detail: Maintain meticulous and accurate records related to rosters, compliance, and reporting, ensuring precision and consistency.
- Collaboration: Ability to work cross-functionally with internal teams, leadership, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and operational success.
- Adaptability: Flexibility to respond to changing operational requirements, guest volumes, and unexpected challenges while maintaining high standards.
Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience in workforce planning, operational scheduling, or resource management, preferably in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment such as hospitality, leisure, or attractions.
- Demonstrated experience working with scheduling tools, workforce management systems, and analyzing operational data to drive resource efficiency.
- Strong understanding of labor laws, compliance standards, and best practices in workforce planning and resourcing.
Benefits
Benefits of Merlin Entertainments
- Excellent health care options (medical, dental, and vision that encourage preventative care).
- Outstanding Paid Time Off (PTO) that allows for adventure, rest, relaxation, or recuperation.
- Merlin Magic Pass for friends and family to enjoy the parks & attractions
- Recognition Programs and Rewards
- 401(k) program with company match
- Tuition reimbursement programs
- Numerous learning and advancement opportunities
Pay Range
- Compensation between USD $24.00/Hr.-USD $24.00/Hr.