Operations Manager

Kitasoo Xai'xais Development Corporation; Klemtu; On-site; CAD 50,778 - 60,822; Full time

Job summary

A leading Indigenous-owned ecotourism company in Klemtu, BC, is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily lodge and field operations at Spirit Bear Lodge. The successful candidate will coordinate teams, ensure excellent guest experiences, and maintain operational readiness. A minimum of 5 years in management within tourism or hospitality is required, along with strong organizational and communication skills. The role offers a biweekly salary of $5,000 during the operating season and may include off-season employment opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of management experience in tourism, hospitality, lodge operations, or similar environments.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities is an asset.
• First Aid certification considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily lodge and field operations.
• Coordinate activities across lodge, guiding, and marine teams.
• Maintain awareness of guiding readiness and vessel availability.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Team coordination

Guest service understanding

Education

Diploma or degree in hospitality or related field

Job description

The Kitasoo Xai'xais Development Corporation serves as the economic engine of the Kitasoo/Xai'xais Nation. It oversees several key businesses, including Spirit Bear Lodge, Kitasoo Seafoods, Kitasoo Band Store, First Nations Fuel, and Kitasoo Forestry Company. Spirit Bear Lodge is a successful, internationally recognized Indigenous-owned ecotourism operation located in Klemtu, BC, in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. Owned by the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation, the lodge offers world-class wildlife, cultural, and coastal experiences to guests from around the world. Celebrating over 25 years of operation, Spirit Bear Lodge is committed to stewardship, hospitality, operational excellence and sharing the culture and territory of the Kitasoo Xai’xais people.

Role Description

The Operations Manager is the on-site leader responsible for supporting the daily performance and coordination of Spirit Bear Lodge operations. Working across lodge, marine, guiding, and guest service teams, this role ensures operations run smoothly, teams remain aligned, and guests receive a high-quality experience. The Operations Manager supports operational readiness, daily coordination, and effective communication between lodge and field teams.

LOCATION

Klemtu, BC

WAGE

$5,000 biweekly during the 5‑month operating season

Strong performance during the operating season may lead to off-season employment supporting ongoing planning, administration, and operational readiness.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily lodge and field operations
• Coordinate activities across lodge, guiding, and marine teams
• Ensure daily operations run smoothly and according to plan
• Maintain awareness of guiding readiness and vessel availability
• Align staffing schedules and operational priorities
• Support a positive and respectful work environment
• Maintain clear communication between lodge and field teams
• Assist managers and supervisors in keeping teams organized and aligned
• Address operational issues quickly to prevent disruptions
• Monitor vessel use, fuel consumption, and equipment usage
• Maintain awareness of vessel condition and operational readiness
• Ensure lodge facilities remain functional, organized, and prepared
• Monitor purchasing and track day-to-day operational spending
• Code invoices and maintain organized records
• Assist with scheduling, timesheets, and internal reporting
• Maintain awareness of key operational cost drivers such as fuel and supplies
• Promote safe operations in lodge and marine environments
• Identify operational risks early
• Fillin as required (and certifications permit) for operational positions (vessel operations, bear guiding, lodge support etc.)
• Support the respectful integration of Kitasoo Xai’xais culture into the guest experience

Qualifications

Minimum 5 years management experience in tourism, hospitality, lodge operations, marine operations, or similar remote operational environments

Diploma or degree in hospitality, tourism, business, operations, or related field (preferred)

Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

Experience coordinating teams and daily logistics in fast-paced environments

Understanding of guest service and operational flow in remote settings

Experience working with Indigenous communities is an asset

First Aid certification considered an asset, including SVOP, MED, Wilderness First Aid, Bear Guide Training, and other relevant safety certifications

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move supplies and equipment 25–50 lbs
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and move between lodge and marine environments for extended periods

Working Conditions

This position is based at Spirit Bear Lodge in Klemtu, BC and operates in a remote coastal environment.

The role may require:

• Extended hours during the operating season
• Participation in both lodge and field activities
• Exposure to marine and outdoor weather conditionss
• Flexible scheduling to support lodge operations