Grand Canyon Operations Manager

A leader in the whitewater rafting and adventure travel industry since 1969, OARS has set the standard in first-class rafting, hiking and multi-sport adventures with more than 75 unique itineraries around the world.

At our core, beyond “Guiding Life’s Greatest Adventures,” we’re a second generation family-owned business that strives to make a positive impact on people’s lives by providing outstanding river trips and other outdoor adventures. We encourage and actively support awareness, deeper appreciation, and preservation of our rivers and environment, and seek like-minded individuals who share that same passion to join our team.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Summary

The Grand Canyon Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all river trip operations at the Flagstaff, AZ location. Working in close coordination with other Grand Canyon management team members, the Operations Manager ensures that river trips operate safely, efficiently, and in alignment with company standards, culture, and agency requirements.

This role balances leadership, operational oversight, and hands-on support. While the Operations Manager maintains overall accountability for operations, the position relies on capable managers and supervisors who operate with autonomy once trained, allowing the Operations Manager to focus on staff management, coordination, problem-solving, and high-level operational execution.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Operations Leadership & Oversight:
  • Provide comprehensive leadership and accountability for all operations, ensuring seamless execution and adherence to company standards.
  • Coordinate end-to-end trip logistics, including scheduling, rigging, derigging, and flow to support multi-day adventures.
  • Act as the central escalation point for resolving operational, staffing, and emergency issues, with 24/7 availability of a management member during active trip periods.
• Personnel Management & Training:
  • Lead the recruitment, onboarding, scheduling, and performance evaluation of guides and support staff to build a high-performing team.
  • Oversee ongoing training initiatives, including on-river skills development, interpretive programs, and team evaluations to create growth and maintain expertise.
  • Foster a collaborative, respectful work environment by promoting morale, resolving conflicts, encouraging feedback, and enforcing professional policies.
• Safety, Risk & Compliance:
  • Build and maintain relationships with regulatory agencies to ensure full compliance with permits, inspections, and environmental protocols.
  • Manage risk through guest screening, incident response, and required documentation, including annual reports and safety binders.
  • Direct emergency preparedness and response systems, integrating safety training into all operational practices.
• Financial & Administrative Coordination:
  • Oversee operational spending, payroll processing, and financial reporting to align with organizational goals.
  • Oversee administrative reconciliation of trip reports, wage assignments, and personnel records for accuracy and timeliness.
  • Deliver regular updates and coordinate paperwork to support main office functions and overall efficiency.
• Equipment & Facilities Purchasing & Maintenance:
  • Direct the inventory, procurement, allocation, and repair of rafting and dory equipment to ensure reliability and readiness.
  • Supervise fleet and warehouse maintenance, including vehicle inspections, registrations, and compliance with safety regulations.
  • Coordinate off-season projects and ongoing property upkeep to sustain operational infrastructure without disruptions.
• Maintain Effective Communication As Main Office Liaison:
  • Facilitate productive dialogue between field staff, upper management, government agencies, and partners for aligned decision-making.
  • Participate in meetings, inspections, and reporting to represent operational needs and ensure transparency.
  • Manage internal communications, including staff updates and policy dissemination, to promote cohesion across the organization.
• Other projects and duties as necessary or assigned.

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong operational experience in the industry including commercial guiding experience in Grand Canyon
• Broad knowledge about outfitting river trips
• Exceptional communication skills and attention to detail
• Capability for strategic decision-making
• Experience managing a team of employees of various levels of experience and backgrounds
• A visible, proactive leader with a background in organizational management 
• Self-starter with excellent organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize, organize, delegate, and oversee tasks to meet deadlines based on trip schedules and organizational needs
• Ability to work in a collaborative environment with a professional and dynamic team
• Ability to direct, supervise, and coach others effectively
• Current WFR, CPR, Epi-autoinjector; Driver License and clean driving record
• Proficient in Google Workspace; other common computer applications
• Dory experience considered a plus

Working Conditions

• Work Hours and Shifts:
  • Ability to work long days and split shifts, including when performing all duties of a professional river guide.
  • Long hours sitting or standing while using office equipment and computers, which may cause muscle strain.
• Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to regularly lift heavy items (at least 50 lbs), including boating equipment, warehouse supplies, and food packing.
• Environmental Conditions:
  • Exposure to extreme weather conditions, ranging from winter-like conditions with snow and freezing temperatures to very hot summer temperatures (triple-digit heat).
  • Wildfires are common and can drastically diminish air quality.
• Stressful Working Environment:
  • Dynamic working conditions due to river conditions, changes to schedules, evacuations, and last-minute bookings.
  • Busy office setting with frequent distractions and staff interactions throughout the day.
  • Scheduled and unscheduled meetings with employees, co-workers, and managers are customary.
• Additional Considerations:
  • Stressful working conditions due to potential extreme weather and river conditions.
  • Possibility of hybrid-remote work, after a probationary period, during non-operating months.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary
  • $62,000 – $80,000 annually ($1200 – $1550 weekly) depending on experience
  • Merit Increases considered annually based on individual and company performance
  • This position is subject to a one year probationary period
• Benefits:
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance after a 60-day waiting period
  • Health Savings Account with Bronze medical plan
  • Reimbursement for approved wellness and professional development expenses, up to $520 per calendar year
  • 401(k) plan with company match ($.50 for every $1.00 contributed, up to 6% of gross pay) 
  • Cell phone stipend or enrollment in company phone plan 
  • Flexible time off
  • Friends and Family discounts on OARS trips

How to Apply

Interested candidates may submit their resume and cover letter to [email protected]. No phone calls please. This position will remain open until filled.