Group Travel Specialist

City of St. Charles; Saint Charles (MO); In loco; USD 26.000 - 30.000; Part-time

Descrizione del lavoro

The City of Saint Charles is seeking a Group Travel Specialist for the Parks Department. This part-time, non-exempt role plans and executes group tours and day trips, manages itineraries and budgets, and coordinates vendors to deliver engaging travel experiences for participants.

Ideal candidates have 3–5 years of travel planning experience, a degree in hospitality or tourism is preferred, and proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Competenze

• 3–5 years of experience in travel planning, event coordination or related field.
• Bachelor's degree in hospitality, tourism or related field preferred.
• Proficiency with standard business software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid Missouri commercial driver’s license required.

Mansioni

• Destination selection and route planning aligned with group interests.
• Vendor coordination: contact vendors, negotiate contracts and terms within budget.
• Create detailed itineraries with daily schedules, meals and transport.
• Organize group transportation and manage trip logistics.
• Budgeting and record-keeping for trip expenses and vendor agreements.
• Post-tour analysis: collect feedback and prepare summary reports.

Conoscenze

Travel planning

Event coordination

Microsoft Office

Communication

Formazione

Bachelor's degree in hospitality or tourism

Descrizione del lavoro

Job Title: Group Travel Specialist

Department: Parks Department

Posting Date: September 24, 2026

Closing Date for Resumes/Applications: Open Until Filled

Salary: $19.00 - $22.00/Hourly

Exempt/Non-exempt: Non-exempt

Status: Part Time (Under 1499 hours)

Group Travel Specialist selects, plans, budgets, develops itineraries and executes three to four group tours annually, each lasting 5 to 8 days and approximately 30 local Day Trips each year. The ideal candidate is passionate about travel, experienced in group travel, detail-oriented, and capable of coordinating all aspects of the group tours, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive and all- inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Destination Selection

• Research and select appealing destinations and routes that align with the group's preferences and interests.
• Stay updated on travel trends, popular attractions, and unique experiences.

Vendor Coordination

• Identify and contact all relevant vendors, including transportation providers, hotels, restaurants, tour guides, and activity organizers to negotiate contracts, rates, and payment terms to stay within budget.
• Ensure all vendor arrangements meet quality and safety standards.

Itinerary Development

• Create detailed itineraries for each trip, including daily schedules, destination highlights, sample photographs and logistical information.
• Include specific details for all stops, such as activity durations, meal options, and transportation schedules.
• Ensure itineraries are accessible and clear for participants and incorporate contingency plans as needed.

Trip Logistics and Management

• Organize group transportation (e.g., buses, flights) and ensure smooth connections between destinations.
• Handle participant special requests.
• Provide participants with pre-trip information, including packing lists, travel tips, and emergency contact details.
• Serve as the primary point of contact during trips to address any issues that arise.

Budgeting and Record-Keeping

• Develop and manage trip budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
• Maintain accurate records of trip expenses and vendor agreements.

Post-Tour Analysis

• Gather feedback from participants to identify areas for improvement.
• Provide a summary report for each trip, including attendance, costs, and key insights for future planning.

Core Competencies

Operational Expertise:

• Awareness of travel industry and current trends.
• Creativity, attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Familiarity with travel booking platforms and tools.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.

Financial Acumen:

• Experience in budget preparation, financial analysis.

Communication Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including staff, community members, and vendors.

Customer Focus:

• Commitment to delivering high-quality services to participants.
• Strong problem-solving skills to address and resolve customer issues effectively.
• Understanding and empathetic approach to working with older adults, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction.

Minimum Training and Experience Required to Perform Essential Job Functions

• Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of experience in travel planning, event coordination, or a related field.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in hospitality, tourism, or a related field (preferred but not required).
• Proficiencies: Standard business software and all Microsoft Office Suite applications.
• A valid Missouri commercial driver's license is required

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting during week days approximately 20 to 25 hours per week.
• Flexibility to travel for multiple days and overnight occasionally to escort extended and some day trips.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and perform tasks in various weather conditions.

The City of Saint Charles is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify