Manager, Aquatics & Attractions Safety

POSITION SUMMARY:

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of guests and staff across all aquatic areas of the waterpark. This role leads the development, implementation, and ongoing improvement of safety programs, policies, and procedures; oversees lifeguard & ambassador operations and training; conducts risk assessments; regulatory compliance, and alignment with international best practices. This role oversees water quality, incident investigations, training and cross-functional collaboration with hotel, events, maintenance.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive aquatic safety programs, policies, and procedures in alignment with local regulations, industry standards (e.g., ANSI/APSP, ILS, CDC/health department guidelines), and park risk tolerance.
• Lead lifeguard ambassador operations: scheduling, supervision, performance monitoring, and ensuring optimal coverages for all pools, slides, and water attractions.
• Manage risk assessments and incident investigations: identify hazards, document incidents, determine root causes, and implement corrective actions; track trends and report to senior leadership.
• Oversight of water quality and facility safety: collaborate with property service on water treatment, filtration, chemical handling, equipment inspection, and preventive maintenance.
• Training and certification: develop and deliver safety training for all staff (lifeguards, ambassador /ride attendants /park operations, and seasonal hires); maintain training records; ensure staff hold required certifications (SGE / E&A lifeguard certification, CPR/First Aid, AED, oxygen, etc.).
• Emergency response planning: oversee emergency action plans (EAP), conduct drills, and coordinate with local emergency services; ensure clear communication protocols across venues.
• Safety communications: establish guest safety messaging, signage, floor markings, and public announcements; respond to guest safety inquiries or incidents with clear, professional communication.
• Compliance and audits: ensure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health requirements, local health and safety codes, and permit requirements; lead internal and external safety audits.
• Incident management: lead incident response, secure scenes, preserve evidence, cooperate with investigations, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Supplier and contractor safety: review safety practices for third-party contractors, perform site safety inductions, and monitor contractor compliance.
• Budget and resource management: forecast needs for safety equipment, training, and personnel; manage the safety-related budget.
• Data analysis and reporting: compile safety metrics (to include incident rates, near-miss reports, response times); prepare periodic executive reports.
• Continuous improvement: stay current with industry best practices; recommend and implement process improvements, training upgrades, and technology solutions (e.g., incident tracking software, PPE, PPE compliance).

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the Aquatics / Lifeguard Assistant Manager, Supervisors, Leaders, and Senior Lifeguard.
• Oversee incident investigations and documentation; coordinate with HR and operations on disciplinary actions when needed.
• Coordinate with Maintenance, Food & Beverage, and Guest Services leads for safety-related and guest service issues.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in safety management, Environmental Health & Safety, Park/Retail Management, or related field preferred; or significant equivalent experience.

Certifications:

• Lifeguard instructor certifications preferred; current lifeguard certification - Ellis & Associates, or Starguard Elite, CPR/AED/First Aid, O2, and other required aquatic safety credentials; safety or risk management certifications a plus (e.g., CSP, ARM, CSHO).

Experience:

• 3–7+ years in aquatics safety, risk management, or park operations; prior supervisory/leadership experience in a water park, aquatic facility, or similar environment.

Knowledge:

• Demonstrated knowledge of water quality standards, pool chemistry, OSHA/Local safety regulations, incident reporting, and emergency response procedures.

Skills / Competencies

• Ability to communicate fluently in Cantonese, Mandarin and English.

• Leadership and people management: ability to coach, motivate, and develop a safety-focused team; manage a diverse staff including seasonal employees.
• Communication: clear, concise communications with guests, staff, and leadership; effective incident reporting and debriefing.
• Analytical thinking: risk assessment, hazard identification, data-driven decision making, and trend analysis.
• Crisis management: calm under pressure, decisive action during emergencies, and ability to coordinate with internal and external partners.
• Training and development: instructional skills for safety training, drills, and onboarding.
• Collaboration: cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Maintenance, and Guest Services.
• Attention to detail: meticulous about procedures, signage, and safety checks.
• Technical aptitude: familiarity with water treatment equipment, lift safety systems, and safety management software.