Operations Manager

Location: Inside Passage and the Queen Charlottes (Queen Charlotte City)

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

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