Area Manager, Water Park

Location: Shakopee, MN

Job Type: Full-Time, Year-Round

Salary Range: $67,000 - $71,000 based on experience

Bonus Eligible: Yes

Preferred Start Date: April 6

Benefits: 

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off: 15 days of vacation, 11 holidays, and 6 sick days

Job Description:

Step into a leadership role that makes a splash! Valleyfair is searching for an energetic and safety‑driven Water Park Area Manager to oversee the vibrant world of our Water Park. In this role, you’ll guide daily operations, ensure an exceptional guest experience, and lead a high‑performing team that keeps our water attractions running smoothly and safely.

• Oversees daily operations of all Soak City water attractions and serves as the Duty Manager for Aquatics Operations and/or Divisional Duty Manager as assigned.
• Manages the setup, operation, and off‑season winterization of all park rides and attractions, ensuring safe functionality, cleanliness, proper staffing levels, and exceptional guest service.
• Communicates operational needs and concerns to the Director of Operations, departmental managers, supervisors, and cross‑departmental partners as appropriate.
• Ensures all standard operating procedures are followed during attraction downtime and emergency situations. Coordinates with Operations, Maintenance, and Safety/Security teams to safely evacuate guests when required.
• Oversees and participates in the recruitment, training (including Leadership, Lifeguard, Facility, In‑Service, and Safety training), scheduling, and supervision of the Aquatics Department’s seasonal staff. Supports divisional staffing efforts to maintain service quality and procedural proficiency.
• Reads, writes, updates, and reviews Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) manuals.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable labor laws, including youth employment regulations.
• Provides coaching, counseling, and disciplinary action as needed. Reviews and approves personnel actions such as transfers and terminations to ensure adherence to policy and legal requirements.
• Prepares annual labor and operating budgets. Monitors expenses, adjusts labor staffing levels, and analyzes variances to maintain operational efficiency. Researches and negotiates supply purchases and manages procurement for Aquatics upon approval.
• Enforces all Six Flags Entertainment Corporation and park‑specific policies and procedures, including safety, attendance, and
• EEO standards, while demonstrating a commitment to delivering excellent guest service.
• Reviews and responds to guest comments and engages with guests in‑park to address concerns and maintain high service standards.
• Assists with day‑to‑day operational management of fall events at ValleyScare.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

• 3–5 years of experience in theme park or water park operations, including 2+ years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Eligibility and ability to obtain a Jeff Ellis & Associates International Lifeguard Training Program Instructor or Instructor Trainer certification.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification, with the capability to advise on water chemistry and filtration systems in accordance with CPO standards.
• Ability to learn, perform, and maintain current certification in CPR and Basic First Aid.
• High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.
• Ability to pass mandatory or random drug testing in accordance with company policy and applicable law.
• Ability to pass a background check, which may include criminal history, motor vehicle records, employment verification, education verification, and personal references, per company policy and applicable law.