Operations Intern

NBT Bank Arena is welcoming applications to fill an Operations Intern position for the 2026-27 season.

Internship Terms: Fall (September - December), Spring (January - April/May), and Season-Long (September - May/June) opportunities are available
Location: Utica, NY

Format: On-Site

Expected Time Commitment: Approx.20 hours/week

Working with the Operations department, interns will assist in the management of day-to-day operations for NBT Bank Arena and Utica University Nexus Center. Additionally, this role will support facility operations for Utica Comets and Utica City FC gamedays.

Through this internship, participants will gain invaluable, hands-on experience and transferable skills that are beneficial to anyone seeking a profession in Event Management and Facilities Management in the Sports & Entertainment Industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform routine maintenance for NBT Bank Arena on non-gamedays, as directed by operations management.
• Prepare event information sheets and layouts ahead of gamedays for use by building, Comets, and Utica City FC staff.
• Assist with setup and breakdown for Utica Comets and Utica City FC gamedays and team-related events.
• Provide gameday support to staff, ice crew, and performers, as requested.
• Work with staff to research and present opportunities that enhance logistics and safety for the facility.
• Aid other departments with gameday initiatives, as needed.
• Additional duties and special projects as assigned.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

From this Internship, participants will be able to take away the following skills and lessons and apply it in future roles:

• Understand the process of planning, executing, and evaluating a live event.
• Become familiar with run-of-show documents; how to interpret and utilize during the execution of live events.
• Learn leadership skills to manage facility operations and personnel.
• Act as a front-facing member of a professional sports organization, engaging positively and professionally to a wide-range of stakeholders.
• Collaborate with a diverse group of individuals in a professional sports environment to navigate ever-changing conditions and successfully accomplish tasks.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Ability to adapt to changing game situations and can complete projects under tight deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and project management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, specifically Excel and Word, is required.
• Can maintain a high level of professionalism within a professional sports environment.
• Ability to stand and/or sit for extended periods of time; can lift up to 50 lb.
• Must have a flexible schedule to allow commitment to a majority of Utica Comets and Utica City FC home games during their internship term, including select weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Intern will be responsible for their own housing, food, and transportation to and from NBT Bank Arena. Reimbursement for travel, gas, lodging, etc. is not offered with this internship.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.