WHO WE ARE
Mountain Travel Sobek, the leader in adventure travel for over 52 years, offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences to more than 100 destinations worldwide, specializing in trekking, hiking, rafting, kayaking, wildlife, natural history, and safaris. We explore the world in imaginative ways, and our journeys range from high-horizon treks to walking safaris, from quick escapes to month-long expeditions. MT Sobek has a reputation for excellence, a deep commitment to environmental preservation, and a never-ending passion for showcasing the marvels of the world. If you’re looking for an opportunity with an established company but like to work in a friendly, collaborative, and dynamic environment, where you’ll have ownership of your work, then you’ll fit right in!
Position: Custom Travel Operations Specialist – Africa
Reporting to: Director of Custom Travel
Location: San Francisco Bay Area – Emeryville, California – Remote
Term: Full-Time
WHAT YOU’LL DO
The Custom Travel Operations Specialist plays a critical role by ensuring the smooth and seamless operation of custom itineraries designed by our Custom Travel Consultants. After booking, you will be the main liaison for guests and travel professionals, vendors and suppliers to ensure an outstanding guest experience.
PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
• Manage a portfolio of custom FIT trips, which includes but is not limited to, providing top-level, prompt customer service, managing the flow of information to guests, guides, and local service providers, answering all trip-related questions and calls in a timely manner, monitoring and assisting guests while traveling, and problem-solving should any issues arise
• Confirm and manage all trip logistics and services, including accommodations, activities, guiding, transportation, etc.
• Serve as the primary contact for clients, agents, and suppliers associated with your assigned portfolio of trips
• Ensure all details of each booking are entered and maintained accurately in Tour Cube
• Generate final client travel documents which include a timed itinerary, daily instructions, area and dining suggestions, activity requirements, optional enhancements, and thoughtful suggestions
• Manage trip budgets, vendor payments, and trip P&Ls
• Work closely with the MTS accounting team to close trip files
• Build and maintain exemplary working relationships with travel agents, hotel partners, and suppliers
• Manage vendor relations, including, but not limited to, the identification and vetting of new vendors, negotiation of rates, establish and maintain vendor agreements
• Maintain a high-level of knowledge of current offerings and destination information
• This position will be included in our emergency phone rotation
KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
• Ideal candidate is extremely detail-oriented, organized, and hyper-focused on all logistical details of each trip file
• Ability to work efficiently and accurately utilizing existing systems and procedures
• Minimum of 2 years proven experience in trip operations and logistics
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
• Previous experience managing private departures and custom FIT trip operations
• Experience with African Travel ideal
• Ability to manage multiple critical deadlines for various departments
• Customer service experience and a true willingness to exceed guest and agent expectations with every interaction
• High level of initiative
• Can work effectively and remain focused in a fast-paced work environment
• Can juggle multiple priorities simultaneously
• Excellent organizational and computer skills: proficient and comfortable with Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel. TourCube experience is a plus
• A willingness to learn new, complex systems is required
• Value and embody integrity, teamwork, empowerment, and, sense of ownership
• Enthusiastic about working for MT Sobek and have a passion for active travel and the outdoors
Salary range: $55,000 to $62,000 annually, depending on experience and geographic location. Plus performance-based incentives. We offer an excellent benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) plan. Standard work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
To apply, please send a cover letter letting us know why you think you’d be a great fit at MT Sobek along with your resume and salary requirements to mtsjobs@mtsobek.com with “Custom Trips Operations Specialist” in the subject line of your email. Please attach your cover letter and resume in PDF format. No phone calls please.
MT Sobek is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.