Head of Operations

What you'll bring to the team

At Peppa Pig World of Play Dallas, SEA LIFE Dallas, and Bubble Planet Dallas, our Head of Operations plays a critical role in shaping unforgettable guest experiences while driving world-class safety, efficiency, and team performance. This is a high-impact leadership position for an experienced operations professional who thrives in dynamic environments and loves bringing teams together under one vision.

You’ll be responsible for leading Operations across multiple sites, ensuring every attraction runs safely, efficiently, and with exceptional guest service. From budgeting and labor planning to safety culture and team development, you’ll be the driving force behind operational excellence in North Texas.

Qualifications & Experience

Why You’ll Love This Role

• A senior leadership role with real influence across multiple iconic attractions

• The opportunity to shape safety culture, guest experience, and team engagement

• A dynamic environment where no two days look the same

• The chance to lead passionate teams and build future leaders

• A role where creativity, innovation, and strategic thinking are encouraged

Your Mission 

To deliver industry-leading safety, exceptional guest satisfaction, and strong operational performance across all supported attractions—while developing high-performing teams who love what they do.

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead and champion an industry-leading safety culture across all sites 

• Ensure all attractions operate in full compliance with safety standards, procedures, and training requirements 

• Drive strong results in guest satisfaction scores, touch screen feedback, and exit surveys 

• Balance operational efficiency with guest experience, minimizing wait times and maximizing fun 

• Own and manage Operations labor and expense budgets with accountability and accuracy

• Act as purchasing lead and budget controller for Operations, building strong vendor and finance partnerships 

• Provide regular performance updates and strategic insights to the General Manager 

• Lead seasonal planning, labor forecasting, and capital project input 

• Ensure all Operations team members are fully trained, certified, and signed off before operating any attraction 

• Continuously review and improve SOPs, risk assessments, and operational manuals 

• Inspire creativity and innovation to keep experiences fresh, engaging, and aligned with industry trends 

• Lead the operational delivery of special events and major initiatives 

• Build a culture of trust, accountability, and performance through coaching and feedback 

• Develop leaders through training, mentoring, and performance reviews 

• Ensure policies and procedures are followed in partnership with HR and Merlin Operations Manual 

Leadership & Culture 

• Foster a workplace that is:

  • Safety-first

  • Guest-obsessed

  • Supportive and inclusive

• Encourage open communication and ensure teams are informed, confident, and empowered 

• Be visible and present in the attractions, engaging with guests and teams daily 

Education & Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Park Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred

• 4+ years of senior-level operations leadership in theme parks, attractions, hospitality, or entertainment

• Proven experience in:

  • Budget ownership and labor management 

  • Safety systems and compliance 

  • Large-team leadership and development 

  • Multi-site or complex operations environments 

• Strong communication and decision-making skills

• Passion for developing teams and creating unforgettable guest experiences

This is more than a job—it’s your chance to lead extraordinary experiences across Peppa Pig, SEA LIFE, and Bubble Planet in Dallas. Let’s build something unforgettable together. 

Benefits

• Excellent Health Care Options: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Merlin Magic Pass: Free entry for friends and family to our amazing parks & attractions.
• Recognition Programs and Rewards.
• 401(k) Program: Save for the future with company matching contributions.
• Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Get support for further education and career growth.
• Numerous Learning and Advancement Opportunities: Grow your skills and advance your career with us!

Ready to be a part of the magic? Apply today and start your adventure with Merlin Entertainments!

Pay Range