Surf Operations Manager

Kelly Slater Wave Company•Lemoore, CA

4h•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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.
CPR/AED and First Aid Certification required
Experience managing safety operations and emergency response
Ability to manage teams in dynamic, high-pressure environments
Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
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

Nice To Haves

USLA Lifeguard Certification preferred
EMT certification preferred
Wave Runner (PWC) rescue experience and training preferred
Ability to coach and teach all levels of surfing preferred

Responsibilities

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
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.