Operations Setup - Akins Ford Arena/The Classic Center

Join Our Team: Arena Operations (Part-Time)
Location: The Classic Center – Athens, GA
Department: Arena

Pay: $15.85/hr | $18/hr for overnight shifts

Do you enjoy hands-on work, seeing events come to life, and working in a fast-paced, team-driven environment? The Classic Center is looking for dependable, energetic people to join our Arena Operations team. From concerts to hockey games to community celebrations, you’ll help transform the arena from one event to the next — and see your work in action when the crowd arrives.

What to Expect:

• Part-time role averaging 16–32 hours per week during hockey season.


• Shifts vary throughout the week — on non-event (“dark”) days, the regular shift is 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.


• Evenings/nights are preferred, but some exceptions can be worked out.


• Overnight shifts are paid at a higher rate.


• Forklift certification/experience is a plus — if you don’t have it, we can help you get certified.

What You’ll Do:

• Work alongside staff and third-party crews to set up and convert the arena for events.


• Build event layouts based on diagrams and manager instructions — everything from tables and chairs to hockey glass and ice covers.


• Prioritize safety in every task, following training and best practices.


• Assist with show preparations, day-of-event needs, and post-event tear-down.


• Keep backstage areas clean, organized, and efficient.


• Store tools and equipment properly after use and assist with annual inventory.


• Operate machinery like forklifts, man lifts, scissor lifts, and pallet jacks.


• Pitch in on other duties as assigned — every event is different.

What We’re Looking For:

• At least one year in a similar role (arena, convention center, stadium, or theater) preferred.


• Flexible availability, including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours when needed.


• Reliable transportation.


• Physical ability to lift 25–50 lbs, walk extensively, and bend/squat/kneel during shifts.


• Ability to obtain and maintain a forklift license and valid state driver’s license.


• A team player with a strong work ethic and attention to detail.

Why You’ll Love It Here:
In this role, no two days are the same. You’ll work behind the scenes to make major events happen — from setup to final sweep — and see firsthand how your work shapes the guest experience. You’ll be part of a crew that gets things done and takes pride in a job well done.

The candidate who is selected for this position will have to successfully pass a drug screening and a criminal background check.

The Classic Center's EOE Statement

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), and consistent with this policy, The Classic Center makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities unless such accommodations would cause the employer an undue hardship. The ADA defines a disabled person as an individual who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

The Classic Center provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, and local law, including, but not necessarily limited to, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age (40 or older), disability, and genetic information. The Classic Center is committed to maintaining a work environment that is free of inappropriate or unlawful conduct. In keeping with this commitment, The Classic Center will not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or the unlawful treatment of employees or applicants. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.