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Waterpark Operation Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Benchmark

Participate in developing the SOPs for all aspects of the waterpark operation. * Conduct inventory and order supplies needed to operate the water park. * Maintain supply costs within budgeted amounts.

OWA

Aquatics Supervisor, Seasonal

Foley, AL

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Assist in daily waterpark operation * Assist with Ellis and IRT ... Other duties as assigned by management REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: * At least 16 years old * Working ...

OWA

Aquatics Supervisor, Seasonal

Foley, AL · On-site

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Assist in daily waterpark operation * Assist with Ellis and IRT ... Other duties as assigned by management REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: * At least 16 years old * Working ...

LIV HOSPITALITY LLC

Waterpark Manager

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Manager On Duty at WaTiki Indoor Waterpark is responsible for the safe and efficient management of aquatic operations, supervision of lifeguards and arcade attendants, as well as maintenance and ...

Great Wolf Lodge

Director, Aquatics

Centralia, WA

$95K - $105K/yr

Fiscal and budgetary management of aquatic operations including creating and maintaining ... Develop, implement, and monitor schedules for the waterpark operation * Recruiting, hiring ...

Great Wolf Lodge

Director, Aquatics

Centralia, WA

$95K - $105K/yr

Fiscal and budgetary management of aquatic operations including creating and maintaining ... Develop, implement, and monitor schedules for the waterpark operation * Recruiting, hiring ...

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Waterpark Operation Manager information

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$31K

$63.5K

$118.5K

How much do waterpark operation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for waterpark operation manager in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Waterpark Operation Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Waterpark Operation Manager, you need expertise in facility management, safety regulations, and staff supervision, often supported by a degree in hospitality or business management. Familiarity with pool filtration systems, scheduling software, and certifications such as Certified Pool Operator (CPO) are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and customer service skills help you motivate teams and ensure guest satisfaction. These skills are vital to maintaining safe, efficient, and enjoyable waterpark operations for both staff and visitors.

What is the difference between Waterpark Operation Manager vs Waterpark Supervisor?

AspectWaterpark Operation ManagerWaterpark Supervisor
CredentialsRelevant certifications, management experienceBasic certifications, supervisory experience
Work EnvironmentOversees entire waterpark operationsManages daily staff and guest interactions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by large waterparks and resortsCommon in smaller parks and seasonal venues
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles and responsibilitiesFocus on daily supervision and staff management

The Waterpark Operation Manager oversees the entire waterpark, focusing on strategic planning, safety compliance, and overall operations. In contrast, the Waterpark Supervisor handles daily staff supervision and guest service. Both roles require relevant certifications, but the manager typically has more experience and responsibilities. The manager's role is broader, often in larger parks, while the supervisor is more hands-on with daily operations.

What are the main challenges Waterpark Operation Managers face during peak season, and how can they be addressed?

During peak season, Waterpark Operation Managers often face challenges such as maintaining guest safety amid high attendance, ensuring efficient staff scheduling, and quickly resolving operational issues like ride malfunctions or long queues. Addressing these requires robust staff training, proactive maintenance schedules, and clear communication channels among team members. Successful managers prioritize guest satisfaction and safety while adapting to rapidly changing park conditions, often collaborating closely with lifeguards, maintenance teams, and guest services.

What does a Waterpark Operation Manager do?

A Waterpark Operation Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a waterpark, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of guests, and managing staff such as lifeguards and maintenance personnel. They coordinate schedules, supervise maintenance of attractions, enforce safety regulations, and handle customer service issues. Additionally, they may be involved in budgeting, staff training, and implementing operational policies to ensure the smooth running of the waterpark.
Infographic showing various Waterpark Operation Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,456 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Waterpark Director

Showboat Hotel & Island Waterpark

Atlantic City, NJ • On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Summary of Position
The Director is responsible for leading the management team, setting operational strategies, and maintaining a high level of guest satisfaction in a waterpark setting. This role requires oversight of all departments, including operations, safety, guest services, marketing, human resources, and finance, ensuring that the waterpark meets its business objectives and provides a safe, fun, and memorable experience for all visitors.
Organizational Relationships
Reports to:
Showboat General Manager
Supervises:
All Waterpark Staffing
Qualifications and Skills
  • Strong leadership and supervisory skills
  • Proven experience in managing a waterpark
  • Certified lifeguard instructor and CPR/First Aid trained
  • Extensive Knowledge of pool chemistry and water safety regulations
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Excellent written and verbal communication to interact with clients, vendors, staff, and guests
  • Must be able to speak, read, write and communicate in English to adequately perform the duties of the job
  • Ability to motivate and manage a team, delegate effectively, and make quick decisions under pressure
  • Outstanding organizational and time management skills
  • Must show initiative, including anticipating guest or operational needs
  • Ability to work varying schedules that include evenings, weekends, holidays and extended hours as business dictates.
  • Strong budgeting experience.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Aquatics or related field
  • Minimum of 10+ years of experience in aquatics management and programming
  • Lifeguard Instructor and CPR Certifications
  • Certified Pool Operator
  • Applicable state certifications as required
  • Proficient computer skills including but not limited to Microsoft Word, Power Point, Excel and Outlook and other required systems.

Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy:
  • Lead and manage the overall daily operations of the waterpark.
  • Develop and execute long-term strategic plans, goals, and objectives to ensure the growth and profitability of the waterpark.
  • Provide leadership and guidance to department heads and staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
  • Work with senior leadership to align the waterpark's strategy with the company's overall goals.

Operational Management:
  • Oversee the daily operations of waterpark attractions, water rides, pools, guest services, and safety operations.
  • Ensure that the park meets all regulatory, safety, and health standards.
  • Maintain high operational standards for cleanliness, maintenance, and efficiency.
  • Create and monitor processes to ensure maximum up time for attractions and facilities.

Financial Oversight:
  • Develop and manage the annual budget for the waterpark, ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability.
  • Analyze financial performance and recommend adjustments as needed to meet revenue and cost targets.
  • Collaborate with the marketing department to drive ticket sales, group bookings, and special events.

Guest Experience & Safety:
  • Ensure exceptional guest service standards are maintained across all departments.
  • Implement and monitor guest feedback systems to continuously improve guest experience.
  • Ensure that all safety measures and protocols are in place and adhered to, including water quality, ride safety, staff training, and emergency response procedures.
  • Address and resolve guest complaints, concerns, or issues quickly and professionally.

Team Development & Staff Management:
  • Oversee recruitment, training, and development of staff to ensure a knowledgeable, efficient, and friendly workforce.
  • Foster a positive work culture focused on team collaboration, guest satisfaction, and safety.
  • Ensure that all staff comply with company policies, procedures, and safety standards.

Marketing & Promotions:
  • Collaborate with the marketing team to promote the waterpark, including seasonal events, special promotions, and new attractions.
  • Monitor industry trends and competitor offerings to adjust marketing strategies and maintain competitiveness.

Compliance & Regulations:
  • Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including health and safety standards.
  • Keep up to date with any changes in regulations that could impact the waterpark's operations.

Perform other related duties as assigned by the General Manager.
Showboat Core Values
Demonstrates Showboats core values in the performance of position responsibilities:
1) Friendly Focused - we are committed to creating a fun environment that embraces families and children of all ages.
2) Kindness Focused - we demonstrate kindness in everything we do, seeking to uplift and support all of those around us.
3) Team Spirit - we foster a respectful workplace where team members work together to exceed our guest's expectations.
4) Hearts that Serve - we are driven by a passion to bring joy and happiness to the guests that we serve.
5) Take Ownership - we take full responsibility for our actions and the resulting outcomes, embracing personal accountability.
Essential Functions
  • The ability to attend work predictably and regularly and to be punctual.
  • The ability to work varying schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as business operations dictates
  • The ability to read and understand documents, drawings, and instructions (whether presented in written, oral, diagram or schedule form).
  • The ability to work with mathematical concepts and to apply concepts to practical situations.
  • The ability to work cooperatively with others.
  • The ability to deal politely and professionally with customers and coworkers.
  • The ability to perform several tasks at once.
  • The ability to follow directions or instruction.
  • The ability to use a computer to communicate, create, and access information.
  • The ability to lift and move 50 pounds.
  • The ability to sit/stand/bend/stretch, etc.
  • The ability to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with the hands and arms

Physical Demands
Constantly - occupation requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+ hours/day)
Frequently - occupation requires this activity from 33% to 66% of the time (2.5 - 5.5 hours/day)
Occasionally - occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0 - 2.5 hrs/day)
Not Applicable - activity is not applicable to this occupation.
Physical Demands
Stand
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Walk
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Sit
Constantly
Frequently
X
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Handling/Fingering
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Reach Outward
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Reach Above Shoulder
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Climb
Constantly
Frequently
X
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Crawl
Constantly
Frequently
X
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Squat or Kneel
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Bend
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Lift/Carry
10 lbs. or less
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
11 to 20 lbs.
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
21 to 50 lbs.
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
51 to 100 lbs.
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
X
Not Applicable
Over 100 lbs.
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
X
Not Applicable
Push/Pull
12 lbs. or less
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
13 to 25 lbs.
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
26 to 40 lbs.
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
41 to 100 lbs.
Constantly
Frequently
X
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Environmental Factors
Extreme Cold (non-weather)
Constantly
Frequently
X
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Extreme Heat (non-weather)
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Loud Noise Level
Constantly
X
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Other
Ability to Read
X
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Ability to Speak English
X
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Ability to Understand Verbal Directions
X
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Ability to Report to Work Regularly
X
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Ability to Report to Work on Time
X
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable
Ability to Work Safely
X
Constantly
Frequently
Occasionally
Not Applicable

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