Job Description

Posted on: Oct 24, 2025
Posted by: Strathcona County
Summary
The Recreation Operations Technician - Arenas is responsible for the overall operational performance, maintenance, and repair of a variety of arena ice refrigeration systems and equipment across all Strathcona County indoor recreation facilities. This position requires a comprehensive understanding and working knowledge of the arena facility environment as it relates to ice plant/refrigeration operations and equipment, building management systems, and ice quality. This position develops and maintains operational and maintenance programs to ensure specialized arena systems and refrigeration equipment are performing at optimal levels.
Key Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain the overall condition of all Strathcona County indoor ice plant refrigeration systems by overseeing the inspections, preventative maintenance programs and repairs. Ensure the lifespans of these systems are maximized and can provide safe, high-quality services for all users
• Oversee and coordinate the ice plant preventative maintenance program in accordance with the service contract and serve as the main contact for the service contractor
• Attend preventative maintenance and repair visits with applicable service contractors to ensure all work is reviewed and completed
• Prioritize ice plant equipment repairs and replacement in conjunction with the annual budget process
• Monitor and review arena refrigeration system operating conditions and identify recommendations for system performance improvements based on site observations and system performance analysis
• Assist in the quality control process for specialized arena systems through review of maintenance practice and arena site conditions to ensure common best practices are implemented and consistent service levels are achieved
• Perform regular monthly inspections of all Strathcona County ice plants and complete monthly plant checks
• Attend plant shutdown and start-up inspections with the service contractor
• Ensure preventative maintenance and repairs with service contractors are scheduled during the specific shutdown period. Oversee pre-shutdown inspection processes and conduct site visits with facility staff to ensure all arena refrigeration equipment and system repairs are identified and prioritized
• Participate in the collaborative aspects of full lifecycle delivery activities, equipment replacement projects and upgrades, including the following activities: needs analysis and identification, specification development, procurement, site meetings, coordination and scheduling, and attending installations
• Assist in the training of new full-time arena operators for topics related to arena refrigeration plants and specialized arena equipment systems

Requirements
Qualifications and Skills:

• Class 4 Power Engineering or post-secondary diploma or certificate is required. A mechanical refrigeration ticket or facilities management designation is an asset
• Minimum of 4 years related experience, hands on experience working in a fast-paced environment maintaining and repairing systems and equipment

Arena Operator I and II certifications are preferred * OH&S courses and/or certifications are an asset

• Computer knowledge including Microsoft Word, Excel, and experience working with an online asset management program is an asset
• Lift training and fall arrest training is an asset
• Ability to research and determine manufacturers and industry standard maintenance protocols for facility components and systems such as ice plants, and other related Recreation, Parks and Culture equipment
• Skilled and knowledgeable in the use and care of tools, equipment and materials required to perform assignments
• Current and Valid WHMIS & Standard First Aid/CPR Certification

Conditions of Employment:

• Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver's licence and submission of a 5-year Driver's Abstract with less than 7 demerits
• Ability to perform physical labour as part of the job duties and stand/walk for extended periods of time
• Available to be on call to deal with emergent operational issues

Skills Required