Railbike Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Mendocino Railway is the owner/operator of passenger and freight railroads including the California Western Railroad / Skunk Train   and the   River Fox Train .  The world-famous Skunk Train is a standard gauge passenger railroad that was founded in 1885, and operates 40 miles between Fort Bragg and Willits, in Mendocino County, California. 

The Skunk Train   is looking for outgoing individuals with an aptitude for fun and hard work to join the crew as a Railbike Operations Manager.  The Railbike Operations Manager is responsible for overall leadership, operations, and performance of the Railbike experience in Fort Bragg and Willits. This position oversees safety, daily operations, staff leadership, guest satisfaction, equipment readiness, and financial performance while maintaining compliance with all applicable laws, policies, standards, and procedures. This Railbike Operations Manager develops high-performing teams, maintains operational excellence, and works collaboratively with leadership to support business growth and continuous improvement.

This is a full-time, salaried position and may include working evenings, weekends, and holidays. 

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)

Operations Leadership

• Direct and oversee all railbike operations in Fort Bragg and Willits, ensuring safe, efficient, and profitable daily operations. 
• Develop operational plans and staffing strategies that align with tour schedules, seasonal demand, and business objectives.
• Monitor operational performance and implement improvements to increase efficiency, guest satisfaction, and meet financial goals.
• Maintain accurate operational records, staffing documentation, maintenance logs, inventory records, and required reporting.
• Manage and monitor budgets and expenses while identifying opportunities to efficiently control costs.

Team Leadership

• Manage railbike staff ensuring completion of maintenance activities and railbike builds/repairs.
• Recruit, hire, onboard, train, coach, develop, and evaluate Railbike Foremen, Guides, and other operations staff.
• Foster a positive, accountable, safety, and guest-focused team culture.
• Prepare staff schedules and manage labor resources to meet operational needs while controlling labor costs.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and development opportunities

Safety & Compliance

• Conduct regular safety inspections and audits of equipment, facilities, and operating procedures.
• Investigate incidents, implement corrective actions, and ensure proper documentation.
• Ensure all employees receive required operational and safety training.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Oversee preventative maintenance programs for railbikes, equipment, tools, and facilities.
• Coordinate repairs, equipment builds, inspections, and maintenance activities to maximize equipment reliability and operational readiness.
• Monitor inventory levels of maintenance supplies, parts, and operational equipment.

Guest Experience

• Ensure every guest receives an exceptional, safe, and memorable railbike experience.
• Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements to enhance the overall customer experience.
• Support revenue growth through effective merchandising, developing new guest experiences, operational processes, and product offerings.
• Partner with Marketing, Reservations, Maintenance, and Executive Leadership to support business initiatives and operational success.
• Communicate effectively with guests, crew members and supervisors to ensure seamless service.
• Ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. 
• Travel to company locations and project sites as required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or GED required; Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Previous management experience in tourism, hospitality, outdoor recreation, attractions, transportation, or a related industry preferred.
• Demonstrated experience successfully leading teams in a customer-facing environment.
• Mechanical aptitude with experience overseeing equipment maintenance; bike repair and maintenance experience preferred.
• Pre-employment drug screen (including cannabis) and criminal background check required prior to hiring.
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational setting across multiple locations.
• Ability to troubleshoot, identify root cause, and problem-solve for effective outcomes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in the English language.
• Excellent customer service and conflict resolution skills.
• Proficiency with scheduling, reservations, retail point-of-sale systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to analyze operational data in Excel and make informed decisions.
• Valid driver’s license or able to obtain one within 60 days of employment. 
• Must not have had a DUI/DWI conviction within the previous ten years. 49 CFR Part 240.111 
• Must have the ability to see and interpret hand signals from near and far; distinguish among red, blue, green, yellow and white colors; visually judge the speed and distance of moving objects; see at night; hear, and, with training, distinguish auditory signals. Hearing & Vision tests per 49 CFR part 240.121 and 242.117. 
• Must be able to work in extreme all-weather conditions and safety-sensitive work environments. 
• Familiarity and compliance with FRA rules a plus. 
• Ability to effectively communicate and work with employees, contractors, regulatory representatives, public officials, and members of the public.
• Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand for extended periods and walk on uneven surfaces (train platforms, gravel, etc.).
• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. safely.
• Ability to lift, move, and maneuver railbikes and operational equipment. 
• Frequent bending, lifting, standing, climbing, pushing, and pulling for extended periods. 
• Ability to work outdoors in physically demanding and varying weather conditions. 
• Must be able to perform duties safely while on the tracks and a moving train and bike.

BENEFITS & ADDITIONAL NOTES

• Employment is full-time and includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement, paid holidays, paid sick leave, and paid time off.

EEO Statement

Mendocino Railway is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disabled status or any other protected class.