What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tour Planner position at Sunrise Tours?
About Sunrise Tours Based in St. Louis, Missouri, Sunrise Tours specializes in group package tours for senior-aged travelers. We provide curated travel experiences ranging from regional motorcoach trips to international fly-away destinations.
Job Summary The Tour Planner is responsible for the complete lifecycle of a tour product, from initial concept and research to final itinerary execution. This role requires a balance of creative destination planning and strict logistical management. The Tour Planner will design itineraries that cater specifically to the senior demographic, manage budgets, and coordinate with vendors and Tour Directors to ensure seamless operations.
Key Responsibilities
Itinerary Planning:
- Create detailed, day-by-day itineraries for durations ranging from short regional trips (3–6 days) to extended domestic and international travel using online mapping, previous customer feedback, and individual research.
- Select and vet hotels, restaurants, and attractions that meet quality standards.
- Plan best routing for motorcoach travel to maximize experience, efficiency and comfort.
Budgeting & Pricing:
- Build comprehensive tour budgets accounting for all costs (transportation, accommodation, meals, admissions).
- Negotiate rates and policies with vendors.
- Monitor tour costs throughout the planning process to strictly adhere to financial targets.
Vendor Management:
- Source and contract with airlines, motorcoach companies, hotels, and local guides.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all external partners during the planning phase.
Operational Coordination:
- Collaborate with Tour Directors to hand off final itineraries and provide necessary operational details.
- Review post-tour survey data to identify areas for product improvement on future departures.
Travel:
- Travel as needed for trade show conferences and product development.
Qualifications
- Proficiency in logistics, task management, and organization.
- Able to meet deadlines required by management and vendors.
- Understanding of online research tools, mapping, and Microsoft Office.
- Comfortable use of AI and an interest in expanding use of it in new ways.
- Ability to negotiate effectively with vendors.
- Understanding of the needs and preferences of senior travelers.
- Based in or willing to commute to the St. Louis, MO area.
- 2-4 Year degree in Travel/Tourism or related field preferred.
Compensation
- $42,000-$48,000 salary dependent on qualifications
- Company sponsored health care
- Company sponsored 401K plan
- Paid vacation
Salary : $42,000 - $48,000