Manager of Ice Operations | Wings Event Center | Full Time

Radisson Plaza Hotel; United States; On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision (Full-Time)

401K with employer match

Parental Leave Program (Full-Time)

Employee Assistance Program

Wellness reimbursement

Discounts on hotel rates

Job summary

Greenleaf Hospitality Group (GHG) is seeking a Lead Ice Technician to oversee ice operations at Wings Event Center, Kalamazoo. You’ll lead a team, manage scheduling, and ensure safe, high-quality ice for all events through NCAA and ECHL standards.

In this role you’ll develop SOPs, coordinate with maintenance, and train staff on ice surfaces, equipment, and safety protocols. Physical work, flexibility, and a passion for hockey and multi-use venues are essential.

Qualifications

• Certified Ice Technician through US Ice Rinks preferred but not mandatory.
• Minimum two years of experience operating an ice resurfacer.
• Experience supervising or managing a team of employees.
• Fundamental knowledge of ice operations and related equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and adapt to various tasks.

Responsibilities

• Oversee ice installation, maintenance, and removal to NCAA and ECHL standards.
• Manage ice resurfacing scheduling and operator training.
• Implement SOPs for the field of play and ice surfaces.
• Maintain records of ice conditions and maintenance schedules.
• Recruit, train, and supervise ice operations staff.
• Coordinate with maintenance and contractors on projects and equipment.

Skills

Ice resurfacer operation

Leadership / supervision

Ice operations knowledge

Safety training OSHA

Communication

Team collaboration

Flexible schedule

Physical stamina

Driver's license

Education

High School Diploma or higher

Tools

Refrigeration

HVAC

Maintenance Logs

Work Orders

Lighting Controls

Job description

Job Description Overview

We're looking for a motivated Lead Ice Technician to join the Greenleaf Hospitality Group (GHG) team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to oversee the management of all Ice Operations at the Wings Event Center, home of the ECHL’s Kalamazoo Wings, for its final season in 2026-2027. In Fall of 2027, this position will transition into the new Kalamazoo Event Center, home of the NCAA Western Michigan Broncos Men’s Ice Hockey, Men’s Basketball and Women’s Basketball Teams as well as the ECHL’s Kalamazoo Wings. This role will develop, train, and implement standard operating procedures for the ice surfaces and field of play in regards to the Main Arena and attached Practice Arena. Responsibilities include overseeing all ice related equipment, field of play systems, ensuring appropriate staff coverage for all ice related activities, monitoring staff and equipment expenses to meet budget, establishing vendor relationships, and potentially providing coverage on nights and weekends based on event schedules. This role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and hands-in-on operational expertise to manage staff, equipment, and resources effectively in a fast-paced, multi-purpose venue.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Oversee all aspects of ice installation, maintenance, and ice removal, ensuring optimal playing conditions and compliance with NCAA and ECHL standards.
• Manage ice resurfacing operations including scheduling and operator training.
• Implement standard operating procedures for the field of play and ice surface.
• Maintain detailed records of ice conditions, maintenance schedules and related equipment service.
• Record keeping of all gameday Field of Play Data and submitting a Field of Play Report.
• Recruit, train, schedule and manage a team of ice operations staff including full-time/ part-time ice technicians, part-time game operations and shovel crew.
• Learn the programs that are used to manage building automation systems, including Refrigeration, HVAC/D, Maintenance Logs, Work Orders, Lighting Controls etc.
• Collaborate with the maintenance team and external contractors on various projects, work orders, and refrigeration plant/ air handling units status, upkeep and maintenance.
• Implement ongoing safety and technical training programs to ensure compliance with OSHA and venue safety protocols.
• Maintain accurate inventory of tools, equipment and related materials.
• Manage the operation, upkeep, and repair of rink equipment such as dasher boards, acrylic shielding, ice resurfacers, paint equipment, spectator netting, goal frames, LED logos, etc.
• Schedule and implement ongoing preventative maintenance for ice related equipment and ensure a proper stock of equipment parts and supplies.
• Coordinate across multiple departments within the facility.
• Other duties and tasks as assigned

What You Need For This Position

• Certified Ice Technician through US Ice Rinks preferred but not mandatory.
• Minimum two years of experience operating an ice resurfacer.
• Experience overseeing, supervising or managing numerous employees.
• Fundamental knowledge of ice operations and related equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and adapt to various tasks.
• Open to a flexible schedule as needed.
• Physical ability to perform maintenance tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in cold environments for extended periods of time.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Minimum of High School Diploma, Bachelor’s or Associates Degree preferred but years of experience may be substituted.

What's in it for You

• Medical/Dental/Vision (Full-Time option)
• 401K with 100% match up to 3% (Full-Time option)
• Parental Leave Program (Full-Time Option)
• Robust Employee Assistance Program providing a wide range of services
• Health and Wellness reimbursement for items like massages, gym memberships, running shoes etc.
• 10% Discount on GHG outlets
• Discounted hotel rates at Radisson Hotel Group branded properties worldwide

Top Reasons to Work With GHG

• We are one of the Nation's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for
• You’ll have the opportunity to work with a diverse team that is fun, high-energy, and passionate. You will grow your skills and experience in an environment that allows you to put your love for hospitality to work.
• Explore Open Roles Browse our current listings or utilize the filters to find your perfect fit at Greenleaf Hospitality Group.