Operations Manager - Maggie Daley Park

ASM Global•Chicago, IL

19d•$70,000 - $75,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Operations Manager leads the smooth, safe, and efficient daily operations of Maggie Daley Park’s attractions, events, and seasonal activities. Responsibilities span The Ribbon, which is used for ice skating in winter and roller activities in warmer months; the climbing wall; light show installations; public programming; private rentals; and initiatives that support visitor engagement and community involvement. The role combines strategic planning with hands-on operational leadership and works closely with internal departments, city agencies, third-party vendors, and seasonal staff to support a seamless experience for park visitors. The Operations Manager oversees attraction readiness, staffing, safety, cleanliness, and guest experience; leads the operational planning and execution of events and programming; and manages logistics such as setup, teardown, staffing, security, signage, vendors, and sound and electrical needs. The position also supports budgets, operational records, grant applications, and community outreach, and helps assess new initiatives and recommend future park improvements.

Requirements

3–5 years of relevant experience in operations, venue or event management, outdoor recreation, or public programming.
Excellent organizational and project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Familiarity with event permitting, vendor coordination, safety inspections, and emergency procedures.
Comfort working outdoors year-round and during irregular hours, including holidays and weekends.
Knowledge of accessibility standards and ADA compliance.
CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or willingness to obtain certification within 60 days of hire.
Ability to work weekends, evenings, mornings, and holidays.
Relevant work experience may substitute for formal education.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Hospitality, Event Management, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
Additional certifications in safety, event operations, or project management are a plus.

Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day operations for park attractions, including The Ribbon, the climbing wall, seasonal activations, food and beverage programming, and fitness classes.
Ensure attractions are staffed, safe, clean, and prepared for guests each day.
Implement and uphold operational standards, cleanliness protocols, and safety guidelines.
Work with Park Maintenance and Facility Manager teams to resolve issues.
Lead operational planning and execution of park events and programming.
Manage event logistics, including setup, teardown, staffing, security, signage, vendor coordination, and sound and electrical needs.
Serve as the on-site lead during key events, addressing operational issues in real time and supporting positive guest experiences.
Develop operational plans for seasonal features, including permitting, installation schedules, and vendor management for the Christmas Light Show.
Monitor and improve guest experience, ensuring park areas are welcoming, inclusive, and engaging.
Act as the primary point of contact for escalated guest concerns and emergency response situations.
Conduct regular walkthroughs to assess ADA compliance, risk mitigation, and accessibility.
Evaluate new initiatives and propose strategies for scaling successful programs.
Identify trends in urban public spaces and recommend future park features or improvements.
Assist with budget development and cost tracking for seasonal programming and daily operations.
Maintain attendance, revenue, staffing, maintenance, and incident records.
Support grant applications and community outreach by providing operational data.
Complete other duties as assigned.