Director of Operations

Director of Operations – The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor

Seasonal Position: August 1st ,2025 to November 9th 2025 

Are you ready to lead the chaos and craft the magic behind Southern California’s most haunted Halloween event? The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, produced by Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, is seeking a seasonal Director of Operations to orchestrate the spine-tingling spectacle that transforms the legendary Queen Mary into a world-class Halloween destination. With haunted mazes, hundreds of monsters, immersive attractions, and electrifying entertainment, Dark Harbor is the ultimate stage for operational excellence and unforgettable guest experiences.

Position Overview

As the Director of Operations, you’ll be the driving force behind the scenes, ensuring every scream, scare, and show runs flawlessly. Reporting directly to the General Manager, you’ll co-manage operations across departments, champion process improvements, ensure efficient operations, mentor and coach the operations team and uphold the highest standards of safety, compliance, and entertainment excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Co-Management & Leadership:

  • Lead and inspire a diverse team of over 500 seasonal staff, department heads, and vendors, fostering a culture of excellence, professionalism, accountability, innovation, and relentless guest focus.

  • Serve as the operational standard-bearer, enforcing policies and procedures while mentoring staff to exceed expectations.

• Vendor Management:

  • Serve as the main on-site contact for vendors during build, operation, and breakdown to maximize revenue and ensure every supplier meets our high standards for quality, ethics, efficiency, and reliability.

  • Streamline collaboration with cutting-edge management tools, reducing risk and maximizing efficiency.

  • Manage in-house and contracted custodial services.  

• Operational Oversight & Process Improvement:

  • Direct daily operations across parking, event entry/exit, ticketing, attractions, guest services, retail, VIP experiences and food & beverage ensuring seamless execution and unforgettable moments.

  • Identify and implement process improvements, cost-saving innovations, and best practices that elevate the Dark Harbor experience.

• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Act as the primary liaison between the General Manager, operational teams, and select external partners, ensuring clear, timely communication and alignment with company objectives.

  • Advocate for operational excellence in every meeting, decision, and initiative.

• Compliance, Risk Management & Safety:

  • Ensure all operations comply with company policies, industry regulations, and safety standards, proactively mitigating risks and leading compliance reviews.

  • Champion a culture of safety and vigilance, protecting both guests and staff.

• Team Development & Training:

  • Support the growth and development of your team, providing coaching, feedback, and opportunities for professional advancement.

  • Cultivate a high-performing, collaborative environment where every team member thrives.

  • With the General Manager, plan the preseason training schedule and curriculum.

  • Plan and lead preseason training modules to ensure the operations team is equipped to perform their duties at the highest standards of safety and guest satisfaction by opening night.

Key Qualifications 

• Proven experience in operations management, preferably in theme parks, entertainment, hospitality, or large-scale events.

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a passion for building and motivating high-performing teams.

• Expertise in policy enforcement, process optimization, and vendor management.

• Adaptability and resilience, with the ability to pivot quickly in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety, compliance, and guest satisfaction.

Why Join Dark Harbor?

• Be part of a world-renowned Halloween event that draws thousands of thrill-seekers each year.

• Lead a passionate, dynamic team in an environment that values creativity, collaboration, and operational excellence.

• Make a lasting impact on one of the most iconic haunted attractions in the country.

Ready to summon your leadership skills and help us deliver the ultimate Halloween experience? Apply today and become the heart of Dark Harbor’s legendary frights!