Arena Specialist

Date Posted:

Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Department:

Parks and Recreation

Deadline:

Friday, September 11, 2026

Nature of Work:

This is a semi-skilled position that involves actual on-site work performance in the maintenance of the Smith Center, facilities and equipment.  Work assignments are given by the Parks and Recreation Director and/or Administrative Assistant on an as needed basis with the employee expected to perform routine maintenance tasks in accordance with these instructions. 

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

Varies According to Department Assignment and Daily Needs of the Departments

  1. Inspects the Smith Center on a daily basis for acts of vandalism or other maintenance and repair needs;
  2. General maintenance on the Smith Center building, Zamboni, and Power Edger;
  3. Lays ice for the Hockey Season and summer camp, painting floor, laying lines and maintains ice throughout the season along with and cleaning and maintenance of all locker rooms;
  4. Cleans and repairs all boards and equipment after Hockey Season;
  5. Monitors open skate times; collects fees along with the rental of skates;
  6. Performs and collects fees for skate sharpening;
  7. Performs snow and ice removal on sidewalks in winter and occasionally lawn mowing and weed trimming in summer at the Smith Center;
  8. Summer time assists and works with all special event set-up and take-downs (weddings, July 4th and Labor Day, all shows, events and rentals, etc.)  This may include weekend and/or evening hours;
  9. Other duties and related work as may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position and the needs of the City as directed by the Parks and Recreation Director and/or Administrative Assistant;

Examples of Work Performed:

Performs general maintenance of Smith Center facility, including: masonry, carpentry repairs and repairs of vandalized items.  Performs general custodial work, including: cleaning, restrooms, and collecting and disposing refuse, removing snow, and similar tasks.  Operates all types of equipment; including snow blower, skate sharpener, Power Edger and the Zamboni with general maintenance on the Zamboni.  Sets up tables, chairs, electrical etc. as needed for summer events such as concerts, wedding/anniversaries, specialty shows, Holiday celebrations and works those events.  Performs related work as required and directed by the Parks and Recreation Director and/or Administrative Assistant as needed.

Knowledge, skills and Abilities:

General knowledge of materials, tools, methods, and practices essential to the maintenance and repair of Smith Center; general knowledge and skills in the uses and types of equipment used in day to day operations at the Smith Center safely and efficiently; ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions; ability to accurately follow oral and written instructions; ability to address the public with courtesy, tact and cooperation.  Ability to work closely and effectively with all other Smith Center employees.

  • Knowledge of building maintenance, motorized equipment, ice arena equipment,
  • Ability to establish and maintain good relations with co-workers, subordinates, participants and special interest user groups;
  • Ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written format;
  • Ability to exercise good judgment at all times;

Required Qualifications, Experience, and Training:

Some work experience in the maintenance of buildings is required, knowledge of running an ice arena is.  Must have a valid Wisconsin Driver’s License and good driving record.  Must be in good physical condition to perform a variety of manual tasks.

Candidates are required to pass a physical examination once job is offered.  Physical examination is paid for by the City and administered by the City Health Officer.  Until physical examination has been conducted and records turned over to the City of Merrill, applicant chosen is not officially hired.

Working Conditions:

Job Conditions/Work Location:  Work is performed both inside and outside the Smith Center.  .  Works near moving mechanical parts.  Work hours are varied and unpredictable and can  include nights, weekends, and holidays.  May be required to travel out of town for education and professional development.

Physical Requirements:  Requires sitting and walking extensively, standing, stooping, turning, bending, and talking.  May lift, push, pull and carry 100+ lbs.  Some exposure to noise. 

Equipment Operated:  Required to use other equipment including but not limited to power and hand tools, tractor, lawn tractors, snow blower, power edger, zamboni, floor scrubber, mobs and brooms.

Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license

Qualifications:

Candidates are required to pass a background check, physical examination and drug screening once the job is offered, paid for by the City.  Physical is administered by the City Health Officer.  Until physical examination has been conducted and records provided to the City of Merrill, applicant chosen is not officially hired.