Operations Manager, UTV

Location: On-Site – Kaʻaʻawa, Oʻahu

Relocation Package: None

Schedule: Full-time; open availability including weekends and holidays is required.

 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Operations Manager – UTV oversees all aspects of Kualoa Ranch’s UTV (All-Terrain Adventure) Department, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality operations that reflect Kualoa’s standards of service and aloha. This role leads a large team of guides, drivers, and support staff while managing fleet readiness, safety compliance, and the overall guest experience.

 

As a hands-on leader and culture carrier, the Operations Manager embodies Kualoa’s values of Aloha, Mālama, Poʻokela, ʻOhana, and Laulima, fostering a respectful, accountable, and high-performing team environment. The UTV department is one of Kualoa’s most dynamic adventure operations, and this position plays a vital role in shaping its ongoing success and future growth.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Culture

• Lead, coach, and mentor the UTV team to uphold Kualoa’s values and deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Build a positive, team-oriented culture rooted in respect, safety, and shared accountability.
• Foster open communication, inclusivity, and professional growth among all staff.
• Partner closely with Operations leadership to align goals, training, and performance standards across departments.

Operations & Guest Experience

• Oversee daily UTV tour operations, ensuring vehicles, equipment, and routes are ready for safe and efficient operation.
• Coordinate with Reservations, Tours, and Facilities teams to optimize scheduling and guest flow.
• Ensure consistency and excellence in guest service, storytelling, and safety briefings.
• Review guest feedback and incident reports to drive continuous improvement.

Fleet & Equipment Management

• Manage maintenance, inspection, and repair schedules for all UTVs and related equipment.
• Oversee Fleetio reporting, maintenance logs, and compliance with internal and state safety requirements.
• Work closely with the Fleet, Maintenance, and Safety teams to ensure vehicle reliability and readiness.
• Plan and forecast fleet needs based on guest volume and operational demand.

Safety & Risk Management

• Develop, implement, and enforce safety protocols and emergency response procedures for all UTV operations.
• Conduct safety briefings, drills, and incident reviews.
• Serve as the primary decision-maker for weather-related cancellations, route closures, and emergency situations.
• Collaborate with HR and HSE teams to maintain a strong safety culture and documentation standards.

Team Development

• Recruit, train, and evaluate team members with an emphasis on safety, service, and professionalism.
• Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to guides and leads.
• Support cross-training within the department to strengthen versatility and readiness for future program expansion.

Administration & Reporting

• Manage departmental scheduling, payroll, and budget tracking.
• Prepare operational reports, fleet summaries, and safety metrics for the Director of Operations.
• Monitor and manage inventory for parts, supplies, and equipment.
• Ensure proper use of communication systems (radio protocols, emergency channels, etc.).

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of leadership experience in outdoor recreation, adventure tourism, fleet operations, or similar operational environments.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop large, diverse teams.
• Strong knowledge of off-road vehicle operations, maintenance, and safety standards.
• Demonstrated expertise in safety compliance, emergency response, and risk management.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and decision-making skills under pressure.
• Experience with Fleetio or other fleet management software preferred.
• Valid Hawaiʻi driver’s license and clean driving record required; CDL preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or equivalent certification preferred.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to drive UTVs and operate in rugged terrain for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform light mechanical or equipment handling tasks.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.