Job Description

Who You Are:
Do you love talking to people and have a passion for travel and being active outdoors? Do you have a deep-rooted desire to help others and prepare them for a positive active travel experience of their own? Do you have great attention to detail and you're comfortable working in a fast-paced environment? If you answered yes to these three questions, we may have an opportunity for you!
About the role:
The Operations Lead plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth execution of Backroads' Canadian operations, with a primary focus on the Canmore Hub. This role oversees vehicle fleet, warehouse, equipment, and inventory operations while serving as the central point of coordination across Operations Managers, Regional Leads, and external partners. The Operations Lead supervises a small team, supports training and seasonal programs, and leads planning for unit loads, end-of-season maintenance, and peak-season coverage. They are also responsible for housing and storage oversight, budgeting and auditing operational spending, monitoring and resolving field feedback, and implementing systems that support efficiency, accountability, and high-quality field operations year-round.
What you'll be doing:Ensure van & trailer needs for all regions are met by working closely with the Ops Managers and Regional Leads in Canada Act as the point person for all warehouse scheduling and staffing needs Manage the response & resolution of unit equipment issues, ensuring that equipment needs and emergencies in the field are responded to quickly and completely. Work with Operations Coordinators to ensure inventory and organization of all trip equipment & supplies including trailer stock and bike accessories, water bottles, spare parts, first aid, etc. Supervise a small team of operations specialists and coordinators in the Canmore Hub Collaborate, update, and facilitate training for Field Staff Work with Operations team to create and track OKRs throughout the year Own monitoring, responding to and resolving equipment issues from Field Staff. Review and approve housing expenditures, and seasonal housing rentals relating to the hub Assist with creating the budget for housing and storage for Canmore Hub, including conducting a monthly audit of field spending in the Operations categories. Assist in the receiving & preparation and then tear-down & return of rented vans. Oversee planning and staffing for Unit Loads for all Canadian Regions Own the planning and staffing of end of season maintenance for Canada Operations winter work projects are expected to be 10-20 hours per week through winter months Help provide weekend coverage for the Operations department in Canada during peak times (July & August) Assist with facility issues and improvements as needed

What you'll need to be successful:Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to prioritize and complete numerous tasks under time constraints Detail orientated with exceptional organizational skills Strong leadership, facilitation, work ethic, Ability to be both autonomous and work in a collaborative team-oriented environment Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams) Mechanical aptitude and experience with basic vehicle maintenance are a plus. Canadian work authorization is required

Work Environment:On-site, Canmore, AB 4 days in-office, 1 day work from home Full time, year round (40 hours/week)

About Backroads:
At Backroads we're passionate about connecting our guests with so many of the most beautiful places in the world. We use our four-plus decades of expertise to create exceptional biking, hiking, and multi-adventure trips in over 50 countries for people wanting a deeper and richer travel experience. We travel on land as well as by small luxury ships on active river and ocean cruises. Our trips are for all ages - including dedicated itineraries just for families. We are known for our unwavering attention to quality. We have a dynamic work environment and a strong company culture.
Why Backroads:
At Backroads, we value every single member of our staff, and we're proud to offer a dynamic work environment that enables growth. Your colleagues will be some of the most dedicated, competent, active, and fun people you will ever meet. A job at Backroads is unlike any other job you will ever have - you will be challenged, you will be inspired, and you will be gratified. No matter what you do here, you will be part of something that makes us all proud - delivering authentic, enriching, and often profoundly life-changing experiences.
Backroads is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

FROM OUR FOUNDER

I can't imagine a better way to travel the world than under your own power and in the company of like-minded adventurers. Sure, Backroads provides superb accommodations and meals, amazing Trip Leaders and unforgettable local encounters. But whether you're sticking with the group or breaking off on your own, all of our planning and support are ultimately aimed at one simple thing: giving you the flexibility you need to discover the world on your own terms.
Tom Hale, Founder & President