Backcountry Guide Operations Manager

Backcountry Guide Operations Manager
Reports to: CEO / Chief Guide
Location: Hakuba, Nagano, Japan
Term: December 5 – March 25
Position status: Full-time, seasonal
Direct reports: Guide, Guest Service and Dispatch Teams

About Evergreen Backcountry Guides

Evergreen Backcountry Guides, based in the Hakuba Valley, provides small-group, professionally guided backcountry ski and splitboard touring, heli-skiing, avalanche skills training, and adventure programs in Nagano’s world-class mountains. Our business is built on technical expertise, a culture of safety, outstanding guest care, and strong relationships within the local, international, and outdoor guiding communities.

Position summary

The Backcountry Guide Operations Manager is responsible for leading Evergreen’s winter guide team, managing all facets of backcountry and heli-ski operations, and upholding the company’s standards for safety, risk management, and guest experience. This position requires hands-on leadership, advanced guide certification (ACMG/CSGA/NZMGA/IFMGA), deep knowledge of the greater ski industry, and a proven record of risk-informed operational management in complex alpine terrain. Familiarity with Japanese operating protocols and the international ski market is an asset.

Key responsibilities

Operations management

• Oversee all daily heli-ski, backcountry touring, and ski area off-piste guiding operations
• Manage guide scheduling, roster management, and aviation/transport coordination as needed
• Ensure compliance with Evergreen and Japanese safety, rescue, and environmental protocols
• Oversee daily and seasonal record-keeping (guest waivers, incident reporting, route logs)
• Manage inventory for safety, rescue, technical, and rental gear

Team leadership and development

• Coordinate guide training, including avalanche risk, rescue, and local operating requirements
• Mentor staff on Evergreen’s safety culture, decision-making, and guest interaction standards
• Conduct performance reviews, participate in safety meetings, and document guide feedback
• Foster an environment of continual learning and teamwork

Risk management and rescue readiness

• Oversee daily risk mitigation, weather and avalanche assessment, and group field decisions
• Supervise regular rescue drills and maintain readiness of rescue and communications infrastructure
• Liaise with local authorities and rescue organizations as needed (translator present)

Guest experience

• Uphold Evergreen’s standards of guest care, safety, and program quality
• Coordinate guides to provide pre-trip safety briefings and field-based client education
• Work closely with other Evergreen departments and local partners to deliver seamless, memorable guest experiences
• Manage guest feedback, incident response, and satisfaction tracking

Strategy and stakeholder relations

• Collaborate with the CEO and management on budgeting, capital proposals, and season planning
• Represent Evergreen with Japanese authorities, industry partners (e.g., local helicopter, ropeway, rescue), and international organizations
• Support marketing and outreach, and assist in developing Evergreen’s international client base

Qualifications

• ACMG/CSGA/IFMGA ski guide certification
• CAA/Japan Avalanche Network equivalent Level 2 or higher
• 80-hour Wilderness First Aid (current)
• At least 5–10 years of guiding experience in ski or backcountry roles, preferably 5+ years in a supervisory or lead guide capacity
• Expert knowledge of risk management, operational planning, alpine weather, and snow science
• Proficiency in English (verbal and written); conversational Japanese a plus but not required
• Experience with global mountain tourism markets
• Strong organizational, communication, and computer skills
• Ability to work the full season in Hakuba

Special requirements

• Residency in the Hakuba area during the operating period
• Able to ski or ride at an expert level in all alpine and backcountry conditions
• Comfortable working long hours outdoors and lifting 20+ kg
• Eligible to work in Japan (visa assistance provided)