Surf Operations Manager

About the role The Surf Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all water-based operations at Surf Ranch, including Surf, Coach, Water Safety, and Boat/Lake departments. This role ensures the highest standards of guest safety, experience quality, and operational execution. Acting as the on-site leader during assigned stints, the Surf Ops Manager drives team performance, manages staffing and scheduling, leads safety and emergency response, and ensures seamless coordination across all departments to deliver a world-class guest experience. What you'll do Oversee daily operations of Surf, Coach, Water Safety, and Boat/Lake departments during assigned stints Act as the primary on-site decision maker for all water-based operations and emergencies Supervise Surf Leads, Coach Leads, Supervisors, Coaches, Lifeguards, Ski Drivers, and Boat Captains, ensuring standards and service are met Actively observe wave basin activity and ensure a safe guest experience at all times Manage all employees and guests entering the water, including surfers, support staff, and maintenance personnel Direct all staff during minor and major water or medical emergencies Maintain clear communication between water teams, control tower, and jet ski operators Coordinate with Hospitality and Guest Experience to ensure proper guest flow and timing for all surf programs Lead pre-arrival communication and planning for all guest groups, including skill level alignment and experience design Create and distribute heat sheets and maintain the Surf Coach Monthly Look Ahead with accurate group notes Serve as primary point of contact for surf, coaching, and water-related guest needs Resolve guest concerns related to Surf, Coach, and Water Safety operations Ensure staffing levels, scheduling, and real-time adjustments support business needs Own timecards, scheduling systems, and labor management, minimizing overtime and ensuring compliance Support hiring, onboarding, and training of all water team staff Conduct performance evaluations and support employee development and growth plans Address and resolve staff issues, including corrective action in partnership with HR Maintain team alignment, morale, and communication across all water departments Complete all incident reports including guest incidents, employee incidents, and workers’ compensation claims Maintain and enforce all safety protocols, training requirements, and emergency action plans Activate emergency response systems including EMS, paramedics, and fire rescue when necessary Coordinate safety planning and coverage for large events and special programming Maintain relationships with local EMS, fire departments, and medical providers Maintain rescue equipment, RWCs, and all water safety infrastructure Oversee surf, coach, and safety equipment inventory, ensuring proper condition and availability Manage purchasing and ordering of equipment and supplies, maintaining accurate inventory records Ensure general upkeep of Surf Ranch water-based facilities including basin, boat ramp, and lifeguard towers Coordinate with Maintenance to minimize downtime and operational impact Track monthly expenditures, support budget management, and maintain financial discipline across labor and equipment Provide input on variance reporting and operational efficiencies Lead and support annual and ongoing training programs across all water teams Ensure all certifications (CPR, First Aid, EMT, etc.) are current and maintained Coordinate lifeguard, EMS, and safety training programs Support development of coaching techniques, systems, and overall program innovation Maintain a thorough understanding of all SOPs, safety manuals, and operational systems Attend department and leadership meetings, providing updates and operational insight Develop plans to support other departments and operational needs as required Provide the highest level of guest care possible at all times What you'll do All Surf Ops Managers oversee full water operations during assigned stints Designated ownership areas will be assigned across the manager group to drive accountability and consistency, including: Safety & Training (EAP, certifications, EMS coordination) Scheduling & Labor Management Guest Experience & Pre-Arrival Planning Equipment, Inventory & Vendor Management Each manager leads their assigned focus area while supporting full operational coverage Ensure alignment, communication, and consistency across all departments through shared leadership. Qualifications Thorough understanding of Surf Ranch operations, guest scheduling, and business model Thorough understanding of Surf, Coach, and Water Safety roles and responsibilities 3–5+ years of experience managing teams in operational or water-based environments 5+ years experience in lifeguarding. USLA Lifeguard Certification preferred CPR/AED and First Aid Certification required; EMT certification preferred Wave Runner (PWC) rescue experience and training preferred Experience managing safety operations and emergency response Ability to manage teams in dynamic, high-pressure environments Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills Ability to coach and teach all levels of surfing preferred Working knowledge of Surf Ranch systems, facilities, and operations Confident and decisive leader Strong situational awareness and ability to remain calm under pressure Team-oriented and collaborative mindset High level of accountability and integrity Energetic, positive, and guest-focused attitude Open-minded and adaptable to evolving operational needs Self-aware with strong leadership presence and communication skills Compensation and Benefits Annual Salary range $85,000-$105,000 Full sweet of benefits including medical, dental, vision and life insurance 401k contribution