Operations Manager

Posted by Adventure Paddle Tours on 03/31/2025

Job Basics

Industry Sector: WaterSports

Job Categories: Management - Team

Company Type: Gym/Outfitter, Recreation, Retail, TravelandTourism

State: FL

City: Naples

Country: United States

Required Experience: 1 - 3 years

Contact Name: Kyle McKenzie

Job Type: Full Time

Salary: 50,000-60,000

Required to Relocate: Yes

Required to Travel: No

Employee May Telecommute: No

Job Seeker Must Live Within: 25 miles

Job Description & Requirements

We are looking to fill this position as soon as possible. Ideally, our new manager will start training in mid-April. During this phase, you will work with current team leads, allowing for some overlap in responsibilities. This hiring timeline will also demonstrate the seasonality of our industry. 

By May 1st we intend to establish new systems and standards moving forward. This position will work side by side with the owner in establishing these systems.

For the first month, this position will lead guided kayak tours to fully understand what we do. From there this position will work closely with the owner to build a team of like-minded individuals. 

Job Responsibilities:

Throughout our summer season, this position will transition from guiding and managing to strictly managing minus the occasional fill-in during schedule issues. 

• Lead guided kayak tours and boat tours (Captain's License Required for boat tours) while ensuring exceptional customer experiences and safety.
• Transition off the water from guide to manager as the seasons change.
• Create and manage staff schedules, ensuring proper coverage for tours and operations.
• Develop and implement day-to-day operational procedures, including maintenance protocols.
• Oversee and enforce equipment maintenance and safety procedures.
• Handle administrative duties such as reservations, reporting, and communication with guests and staff.
• Assist with hiring, training, and mentoring new guides.
• Lead guided tours as needed during shoulder seasons or staff shortages.

Ideal Candidate Qualities:

• Enjoys working with computers and softwares
• Highly self-disciplined and proactive in managing responsibilities.
• Excellent computer skills, including proficiency with scheduling and reservation software.
• Strong leadership and management abilities, with experience supervising teams.
• Clean driving record (required).
• Experience in outdoor guiding, with a desire to transition into management.
• Comfortable working in both an outdoor and office setting.
• Ability to work holidays and weekends.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or comparable work experience.
• Several years of professional guiding experience.
• CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
• USCG Captain’s License or relevant guiding certifications (preferred but not required).

Compensation & Benefits:

• Housing provided.
• Performance-based incentive bonuses.
• Paid time off during the off-season.
• Company-provided cell phone.
• Gear discounts and free personal use of company kayaks and boats.
• Opportunity to transition into a full-time general management role.
• Continued Education reimbursements.

Housing Details:

We offer employee housing in a shared four-bedroom, two-bath home located just 20 minutes from our main operation. This residence accommodates both seasonal employees and year-round staff, with rent subsidized to help us attract top talent from across the country. For the right candidate—or a couple working as a team—we can minimize or even eliminate roommates. Starting May 1st, all seasonal staff will be departing for their summer roles, leaving the house fully available. Moving forward, our Assistant Manager will have first priority for housing and will play a key role in recruiting and selecting future housemates.

This industry is highly seasonal and ever-changing. The roles and responsibilities of this position will evolve over time, keeping pace with industry changes. Candidates must have an understanding of this industry and are willing to embrace the nature of the tourism industry.

About Adventure Paddle Tours

Adventure Paddle Tours is a premier guided kayak and boat tour company operating in the heart of the Southwest Florida Everglades ecosystem. Founded by a passionate conservationist and lifelong kayaker, our mission is to offer immersive, expertly guided experiences that go beyond the typical "eco-tour" model.

Unlike the cookie-cutter, high-volume tourist traps, we run tours that genuinely excite us—adventurous, educational, and deeply connected to the unique landscapes we explore. This dedication to quality and authenticity is why Adventure Paddle Tours is consistently ranked as the top tour provider in both Florida and Colorado.

Our experienced guides lead small-group excursions through protected mangrove tunnels, remote backwaters, and pristine coastal habitats, offering guests a deeper appreciation for the region’s incredible wildlife and fragile ecosystems. We believe that true ecotourism isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about education, respect for nature, and leaving a place better than we found it.

For those looking for more than just a sightseeing trip, Adventure Paddle Tours delivers unforgettable, conservation-focused adventures led by experts who live and breathe the paddling lifestyle.