Boathouse Manager (Project Management)

Reporting to the Head Rowing Coach, this position is responsible for the daily operations, maintenance, and coordination of rowing facilities, equipment, and resources that support Oklahoma Rowing. The role oversees the care of the fleet, transportation trailer, boat launches, training spaces and training equipment located both on Norman campus and at the Oklahoma City training facilities

Essential Functions: 

• Develop and enforce safety protocols in compliance with local, state, and national regulations
• Assist with the annual budget for equipment and facility needs
• Assist with emergency preparedness plans and regular safety drills
• Drive and maintain the rowing trailer for local and interstate regattas and training camps
• Oversee the safe and efficient loading and unloading of boats and equipment
• Prepare and pack all necessary tools and repair supplies for travel
• Maintain and repair boats, oars, rigging, coaching launches, and land-based training equipment
• Organize and maintain equipment used by coxswains and staff (e.g., NK systems, radios, seat pads, tools) to ensure availability and functionality for daily practices and travel
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules and equipment replacement plans
• Maintains the boathouse, docks, training center, rowing tanks, and modular buildings
• Organize tools and supplies, ensure overall facility cleanliness and readiness, and coordinate facility repairs and improvements
• Perform regular service, cleaning, and weatherproofing of coaching launches
• Support summer operations by maintaining open boathouse hours, conducting proactive maintenance, and assisting with facility upgrades
• Ensure the safety of athletes and staff by maintaining reliable safety equipment and safe training environments on both water and land
• Lead daily practice setup, including preparing launches, opening facilities, and addressing logistical needs
• Assist with regatta preparation by setting up racecourses, coordinating with visiting teams, and ensuring all equipment is properly set up
• Coordinates the transport and relocation of coaching launches, including movements to alternate training sites such as the lower river
• Attend staff meetings and complete administrative reports in a timely manner
• Responds promptly to communications and coordinate logistics as needed
• Collaborate with external partners including Riversport, the City of Oklahoma City, and local authorities to maintain effective and professional working relationships
• Performs other duties as assigned

Required Education: High School Diploma AND;

• 3 years' experience as boatman, marine mechanic, hull repairer, former competitive rower, or related field.

Certifications:

• State-issued driver license

Skills:

• Effective time management and ability to work independently
• Clear and professional communication with coaching staff and external partners
• Strong understanding of rowing equipment, including shells, oars, rigging, coaching launches, and coxswain systems
  
• Knowledge of trailer operation, highway safety procedures, and best practices for equipment transport
  
• Familiarity with basic mechanical, electrical, and marine engine systems for maintenance and repair
  
• Awareness of rowing facility operations and regatta logistics, including racecourse setup and coordination
  
• Proficient in the use of hand and power tools for equipment maintenance and repairs
  
• Skilled in troubleshooting and resolving equipment issues efficiently under time constraints
  
• Ability to plan and execute preventive maintenance and inventory management schedules
  
• Effective communication skills for interacting with coaches, athletes, external vendors, and university staff
  
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  
• Ability to drive and maneuver a large trailer for both local and interstate travel (must meet licensing requirements)
  
• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment (50 lbs) and perform physically demanding tasks
  
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaboratively within a team
  
• Ability to maintain calm and act decisively in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations (e.g., regatta setups, emergencies)
  
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by the rowing schedule

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, often in variable weather conditions including rain, heat, cold, and wind
• Regular exposure to waterfront environments and operation near docks, boats, and launches
• Frequent lifting, bending, climbing, and handling of large and heavy equipment
• Requires local and interstate travel for rowing competitions and training camps, including overnight stays
• Must be able to operate vehicles with trailers and perform inspections and maintenance in the field
• May be exposed to chemicals (e.g., cleaning agents, lubricants, fuel) in the maintenance of equipment and facilities
• Work hours vary significantly based on practice and competition schedules including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by the rowing schedule

Departmental Preferences:

• Competent in basic carpentry, plumbing, and general mechanical repairs

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.