ICE SPECIALIST (PART-TIME, YEAR-ROUND)

Location: Rapid City, SD

Job Summary: The Ice Specialist is responsible for operating ice-resurfacing equipment to create and maintain a smooth, safe, and consistent ice surface for Rapid City Rush Hockey games, practices, and special events. This role combines mechanical aptitude, precision equipment operation, and facility operations support. The Ice Specialist also assists with routine equipment maintenance, monitors ice conditions, and contributes to overall arena readiness.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate ice resurfacing equipment such as the Zamboni to maintain high-quality ice before, during, and after Rapid City Rush Hockey games, practices, and special events.
• Monitor and adjust ice conditions by assisting with temperature, thickness, and surface-quality checks to ensure safe and optimal performance standards.
• Support arena setup and breakdown for games, practices, tournaments, and special events, including placement of equipment, barriers, and operational materials.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas including the resurfacer bay, maintenance spaces, and surrounding operational zones.
Follow all safety protocols to protect staff, athletes, contractors, and guests, ensuring compliance with City and facility procedures.

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Prior Zamboni or heavy equipment operation experience preferred.
• Basic mechanical skills and ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues preferred.
• Strong focus on ice quality, safety, and precision in resurfacing and maintenance tasks.
• Demonstrated ability to follow safety protocols, PPE requirements, and facility procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively with operations staff, coaches, athletes, and event personnel.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as event schedules require.

Work Environment:

• Work is performed in an ice arena environment with temperatures typically ranging from 16–24°F during resurfacing and maintenance activities.
• Duties involve frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, and entering/exiting ice resurfacing equipment.
• Regularly required to lift and move items up to 25 lbs, and occasionally up to 50 lbs, including tools, rink panels, hoses, and maintenance materials.
• Work involves operating heavy machinery such as ice resurfacers, edgers, and maintenance tools in confined or noisy spaces.
• Exposure to loud noise, bright arena lighting, and variable conditions during games, practices, and special events.
• Work occurs around moving equipment, active athletes, event staff, and guests, requiring constant situational awareness and adherence to safety protocols.
• Occasional movement between indoor rink areas and outdoor loading or maintenance zones.