Lodging Manager

Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) – Nantahala, NC

For over 50 years, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) has been a leader in outdoor adventure—guiding more whitewater rafting guests and training more paddlers than any other outfitter in the industry. In addition to rafting, NOC offers aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine, retail, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning.

Joining NOC means working in one of the most beautiful outdoor settings in the country while building your leadership skills and helping create unforgettable guest experiences.

Position Overview

The Lodging Manager is responsible for leading all lodging operations at NOC’s Nantahala campus, including housekeeping, in-room services, night security, and seasonal staff housing inspections.

This is a hands-on leadership role focused on delivering a high-quality, consistent guest experience from reservation through check-out. You will build and improve systems, lead teams, and collaborate across departments to ensure smooth operations and exceptional service.

This role also includes shared oversight of Campus Guest Parking Staff and operations, ensuring a smooth and welcoming arrival and departure experience for all guests.

What You’ll Do

Lead Guest-Focused Operations

• Own the end-to-end lodging guest experience—from booking through check-out
• Ensure all lodging units meet high cleanliness, readiness, and maintenance standards
• Improve and standardize operational processes to create consistency and scalability
• Respond to guest feedback and continuously enhance service quality

Manage & Develop Teams

• Lead housekeeping, in-room staff, and related operations
• Hire, train, and develop team members to meet performance expectations
• Set clear standards, provide feedback, and conduct performance evaluations
• Foster a positive, accountable, and team-oriented work environment

Oversee Campus Parking Operations (Co-Responsibility)

• Support and coordinate Campus Guest Parking Staff
• Ensure efficient traffic flow, parking organization, and guest wayfinding
• Improve arrival and departure experiences through better systems and communication

Drive Operational Excellence

• Build and manage housekeeping schedules based on occupancy and demand
• Implement inventory controls and manage supply ordering
• Establish quality assurance audits and accountability systems
• Coordinate deep cleans and ongoing facility upkeep

Collaborate Across Departments

• Partner with Guest Relations, Group Sales, Maintenance, HR, and other teams
• Communicate operational updates and ensure alignment across departments
• Support staff housing oversight and improvements

Manage Performance & Budget

• Develop and manage department budgets
• Track performance metrics and adjust operations to meet goals
• Control costs while maintaining high service standards
• Approve payroll and manage labor efficiency

What We’re Looking For

Experience

• 5 years of leadership experience in housekeeping, lodging, or hospitality operations
• Strong operational and financial management skills
• Experience building processes and leading teams in a fast-paced environment
• Hands-on leadership style with a focus on accountability and results

Skills & Attributes

• Highly organized with strong project management skills
• Excellent communicator and cross-functional collaborator
• Proactive problem-solver with attention to detail
• Passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, seasonal business environment

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Business, Tourism, or related field
• Experience with reservation systems, maintenance software, and Microsoft Office

Why NOC?

• Work in a stunning outdoor environment in the mountains of North Carolina
• Be part of a mission-driven, industry-leading organization
• Opportunity to lead, build systems, and make a direct impact on guest experience
• Join a team passionate about adventure, hospitality, and the outdoors

Additional Information

This role is based on-site in Nantahala, NC and may require a flexible schedule, including weekends and peak-season demands.

This description provides a general overview of responsibilities and may evolve with business needs.

NOC is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace.