Race Operations Manager

Position Summary

The Sacramento Running Association (SRA) is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and solutions-driven Race Operations Manager to support the planning and execution of SRA events with a primary focus on race logistics, operational coordination, and timing services.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced event environments, enjoys solving logistical challenges, and is passionate about delivering exceptional race-day experiences for participants, volunteers, sponsors, and spectators.

The Race Operations Manager will work closely with event leadership, timing operations, vendors, volunteers, public agencies, and internal departments to ensure safe, efficient, and professional execution of race operations across SRA events.

Key Responsibilities

Race Planning & Logistics

  • Assist in planning and execution of all operational aspects of SRA races and events
  • Develop and maintain race-day logistics plans, timelines, maps, and operational schedules
  • Coordinate race infrastructure including start/finish areas, aid stations, signage, fencing, equipment, and course setup
  • Support permitting processes and coordination with city agencies, law enforcement, emergency services, and venue partners
  • Assist with transportation, parking, storage, and equipment movement logistics

Timing & Results Services

  • Be trained to serve as the primary race timer at certain events
  • Coordinate timing setup, start/finish line configuration, and backup timing procedures
  • Assist with participant data accuracy, bib assignments, corral management, and race results verification
  • Help troubleshoot timing and results issues before, during, and after events
  • Support integration of timing services with registration and participant communication systems

Race Weekend Operations

  • Lead operational setup and breakdown efforts during race weekends
  • Coordinate volunteers and staff assigned to operational and course support functions
  • Monitor race-day execution to ensure safety, efficiency, and adherence to timelines
  • Assist in contingency planning and real-time problem-solving during events
  • Support expo operations and participant packet pickup logistics as needed

 Vendor, Stakeholder, & Equipment Coordination

  • Coordinate with vendors, partner agencies, and organizations
  • Maintain inventory and organization of race equipment and operational supplies
  • Assist with procurement and equipment tracking
  • Cross-Department Collaboration
  • Work closely with Marketing and Communications to align participant-facing logistics information
  • Coordinate with Sponsorship and Community Engagement teams regarding race-day activations and operational needs
  • Participate in post-event evaluations and operational improvement planning

Qualifications

  • 2–5 years of experience in event operations, race management, sports production, logistics, or related fields
  • Strong project management and organizational skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in high-pressure environments
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
  • Experience working with vendors, volunteers, and operational crews
  • Familiarity with race timing systems or endurance event operations preferred
  • Ability to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and event travel schedules as required
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to lift/move event equipment preferred

Preferred Experience

  • Road race, triathlon, endurance sports, or live event operations experience
  • Timing systems experience (e.g., RFID chip timing platforms)
  • Course operations and safety planning
  • Volunteer coordination
  • Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and project management tools

Key Traits for Success

  • Detail-oriented
  • Calm under pressure
  • Operationally minded
  • Strong communicator
  • Team-oriented
  • Proactive problem solver
  • Adaptable and dependable

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Health, retirement and wellness benefits
  • Race participation opportunities
  • Professional development opportunities within the endurance events industry
  • Collaborative and mission-driven work environment

To Apply

Please submit:

  • Resume
  • Cover letter

Applications can be submitted via email to Scott Abbott, Executive Director (scott@runsra.org)