Work With Us

Location: Greater Asheville Area, Pisgah National Forest
Reports to: Director of Operations, Pisgah
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt (Salaried)
Salary Range: $45,000 - $48,000 annually, commensurate with experience

This position is preferred to live on-site at Davidson River Campground in their own RV. Full hookup RV site with all utilities is provided.

• Host site is contingent on employment and ends when employment is terminated

• Approval for exceptions to on-site requirement is solely at the Company’s discretion

Why This Role is Unique

This position blends two complementary responsibilities:

• Peak Season (May - Labor Day): Serve as the on-site Operations Manager for Sliding Rock Recreation Area, our highest-volume, most operationally complex location

• Off-Season (September - April): Report directly to the Director of Operations in a senior operations role, building the training programs, SOPs, and infrastructure that improve operations across all locations

PEAK SEASON ROLE: Operations Manager – Sliding Rock (May - Labor Day)

During our busiest season, you are the on-site leader ensuring Sliding Rock delivers exceptional guest experiences safely and efficiently.

Your Responsibilities:

• Serve as the on-site manager 5 days per week, making daily operational decisions

• Lead, coach, and develop seasonal staff; maintain high morale and performance standards

• Oversee hiring, onboarding, performance reviews, and disciplinary actions with Director of Operations

• Manage retail operations including sales, inventory control, and cash handling procedures

• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and Forest Service regulations

• Conduct monthly facility inspections and coordinate maintenance needs

• Resolve guest concerns and maintain exceptional service standards

• Monitor and manage budget adherence for Sliding Rock operations

• Maintain regular check-ins with Director of Operations

OFF-SEASON ROLE: Operations Manager – Systems & Quality Control (September - April)

During the off-season, you shift focus to building the operational infrastructure that strengthens our entire portfolio of campgrounds and recreation areas. You report directly to the Director of Operations in a senior operations role and serve as a systems expert and project lead on assigned initiatives.

Phase 1: Systems Development & Assessment (September - February)

Your Responsibilities:

• Conduct end-of-season assessments: gather feedback, identify what worked well and areas in need of improvement

• Propose annual improvement plans and system enhancements based on operational gaps identified

• Execute priority projects as assigned by Director of Operations

• Develop and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all locations and roles

• Create and enhance orientation programs for campgrounds and Sliding Rock

• Design role-specific training programs and materials

• Build feedback and performance review structures and cadences

• Lead process improvement projects as directed

• Conduct quality assurance site visits and inspections across locations

• Provide on-site operational coverage at campgrounds as needed (e.g., stepping in when a supervisor is out or during transition periods until replacement is hired)

• Serve as backup support for campground supervisors when supervisors are unavailable

• Support strategic revenue-generating projects as assigned

Phase 2: Sliding Rock Preparation & Operational Support (March- April)

• As winter transitions to spring, your focus begins shifting to preparing for Sliding Rock's successful opening while closing the loop on winter projects:

• Redesign and execute recruitment strategy (job fairs, college outreach, innovative sourcing)

• Adapt and customize orientation materials specifically for Sliding Rock operations

• Develop comprehensive site-specific training program for seasonal staff

• Create/update the "Sliding Rock Playbook" including opening/closing checklists and procedures

• Ensure all supplies, equipment, and inventory are ready for opening day

• Write and refine all Sliding Rock SOPs

• Develop marketing plan proposals to increase visitation and enhance guest experience

Reporting Structure & Team Dynamics

• You report to: Director of Operations

• Campground Site Supervisors report to: Director of Operations (not to you)

• Your role: You operate at a senior strategic level focused on systems, quality, and standards across all locations, not as a direct supervisor of campground staff

• During SR season: You directly supervise Sliding Rock seasonal staff

• Collaboration: You work closely with Site Supervisors to improve standards, identify training needs, and implement new systems—but the Director maintains people leadership and supervisory relationships year-round

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible management experience in outdoor recreation,

• hospitality, or a related industry

• Experience managing multiple locations or complex operations preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Hospitality, Business Administration, or related field preferred

• Prior work with government agencies or regulated environments strongly desired

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between sites

• Experience working with government or public land agencies is a strong plus.

Essential Skills & Competencies:

• Strong leadership, team-building, and coaching abilities

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Solid computer proficiency — including Microsoft Office Suite, budgeting tools, and basic database management

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills

• Knowledge of outdoor recreation operations, facilities management, and environmental practices

• Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple demands, and adapt to changing conditions

Working Conditions:

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions

• Physical capability to walk long distances on uneven terrain

• Willingness to work weekends, holidays, and extended hours during peak seasons

• May require living in remote areas with limited amenities

Apply today to join Naventure — where we live our mission: Nature. Adventure. Elevated.

Please submit your resume and cover letter to HollyM@Naventure.com.