Ice Rink Operations Manager

Lawrence Academy (LA) is a boarding and day school in Groton, MA, serving 400 students in grades 9-12. LA enjoys its heritage as one of the oldest independent schools in the country while embracing a contemporary student-centered approach that supports its mission . In LAs tightly knit environment, students are supported and encouraged to exercise their minds, discover their voices, learn creatively, and take their own initiative. The academic program is uniquely hands-on and allows students to discover how their education can be applied in daily life.

Lawrence Academy seeks an experienced Ice Rink Operations Manager to lead the operations and maintenance (care and condition of ice surface) of Lawrence Academys on-campus ice rink facility, manage ice rink employee(s), and coordinate ice rink facility programming with both the Athletics and Buildings & Grounds Departments. The individual in this role must possess a strong understanding of refrigeration systems, and have demonstrated experience in ice maintenance and team management, with the ability to manage rink operations and projects independently. The ideal candidate is experienced with ammonia-based systems and Zamboni operations and will play a vital role in supporting the schools athletic programs and broader campus community. This position will work closely with both the Athletics and Buildings & Grounds departments. For six months of the year when the ice rink is operational and in use for school athletic training and competitions, this individual will report to the Director of Athletics, and for the remainder of the year, this individual will report to the Director of Buildings & Grounds.

Key Responsibilities:

Facility Operations & Maintenance:

• Operate, monitor, and ensure maintenance of the ice refrigeration system, including compressors, condensers, and applicable refrigerant circuits.
• Responsible for the monitoring, maintenance and scheduling of repairs to HVAC and dehumidification systems to support optimal rink conditions.
• Manage ice installation, resurfacing, painting, edging, and removal; ensure high-quality, safe ice surfaces throughout the season.
• Operate and maintain ice resurfacing equipment (Zamboni), perform minor repairs and schedule service and maintenance.
• Conduct regular inspections and preventive maintenance of all rink systems, including dasher boards, lighting, and ice-making equipment.
• Maintain air-quality compliance for the rink, stay current on, and maintain compliance with all state regulatory requirements for the rink facility.
• Maintain safety compliance and proper signage for the rink.
• Manage maintenance and janitorial duties for the rink, including the cleaning and maintenance of locker rooms and bathrooms, and stocking of associated supplies.
• Must be able to operate and maintain all maintenance equipment used by Buildings & Grounds and have understanding of construction trades.

Staff Management & Scheduling:

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise rink operations staff, including Zamboni drivers and facility monitors as directed.
• In coordination with Athletics and Buildings & Grounds, manage the rinks master schedule for athletics, recreation, rentals, and events.
• Work collaboratively with coaches, athletics staff, and external users to meet scheduling and facility needs.
• Safety, Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure ice rink compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA, EPA, and ASHRAE standards, maintain proper equipment documentation and inspections, implement emergency response plans specific to ammonia refrigeration systems, coordinate relevant staff training, and enforce safety procedures for public and staff use of the rink facility.

Administrative & Strategic Planning:

• In coordination with Athletics, Buildings & Grounds, and the Assistant Head for Finance & Operations, develop and manage the ice rinks annual operating budget, including staffing, maintenance, utilities, and capital improvements.
• Maintain accurate inventory of parts, supplies, and chemicals; coordinate with vendors for procurement and servicing.
• Contribute to long-term planning for facility upgrades, sustainability initiatives, and strategic enhancements.

Other Responsibilities: As assigned.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience operating and maintaining an indoor ice rink with preference for those who have experience working in a (boarding) school environment.
• Demonstrated experience with ammonia-based refrigeration systems and ice plant operations.
• Technical familiarity with HVAC systems, building automation, and dehumidification systems.
• Proficient in safe and effective operation and maintenance of Zamboni or other ice resurfacing machines.
• Knowledge of the EPA reporting and compliance, particularly Tier 2 reporting.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with mechanical and electrical systems.
• Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite required. Veracross experience is a bonus.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays during peak seasons.
• Valid drivers license.
• Successfully pass all required background checks.
• Preference will be given to those candidates who demonstrate familiarity with energy-efficient and sustainable facility practices, have a working knowledge of building management systems, and/or who have experience with youth sports and managing recreational spaces.

Preferred Certifications and Training:

• Zamboni Operator Certification or Equivalent Experience
• Ammonia Safety and Emergency Response Training (PSM/RMP compliant)
• CPR/AED and First Aid Certification
• SafeSport compliance and/or certification

Working Conditions:

• Frequent work in cold environments.
• Physically demanding work including lifting (up to 50 lbs.), bending, standing on a ladder, and operating heavy machinery. Must be capable of standing, bending, walking, and climbing stairs.
• On-call responsibilities for emergencies or rink-related events.

To apply for this position, please send your cover letter, resume, and reference list in a single PDF document to Kevin Potter, at ... . The email subject line should be Ice Rink Operations Manager No phone calls please.

Cultural competence is an essential element of teaching and learning at Lawrence Academy. We are therefore seeking individuals who are committed to actively participating in professional development and engaging in our cultural competency programs that are structured to move our community forward equitably and inclusively. We encourage candidates from historically underrepresented groups to apply. The Academy does not discriminate and does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran or Uniformed Service status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

For more information on Lawrence Academy go to www.lacademy.edu.