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Tour Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mayflower-Cruises-

Air Department Manager

Lisle, IL · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Lead Air Operations for a Global Travel Company Mayflower Cruises & Tours, a premier escorted tour operator and division of Scenic Group , is seeking an experienced Air Department Manager to oversee ...

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Cruises International

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Experienced Travel Sales Manager

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Build and maintain relationships with clients, suppliers, cruise lines, tour operators, and industry partners. * Identify new business opportunities through networking, community involvement ...

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All JobsTour Operator JobsTour Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Tour Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$19

$34

How much do tour operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for tour operator in Chicago, IL is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $21.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a tour operator do?

A Tour Operator organizes and sells travel packages, handling all logistics such as transportation, accommodations, and activities. They collaborate with local service providers to create seamless travel experiences for clients. Tour Operators may specialize in different types of tours, such as adventure, luxury, or cultural trips. Their job also includes pricing tours, managing bookings, and ensuring customer satisfaction throughout the journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tour operator?

To thrive as a Tour Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of travel planning, destination logistics, and customer service, often bolstered by experience in tourism or hospitality and sometimes a degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with booking systems, reservation software, and global distribution systems (GDS) is commonly required. Exceptional organizational skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to problem-solve quickly under pressure set top professionals apart. These skills ensure smooth, enjoyable travel experiences for clients while efficiently managing the complexities of group travel and logistics.

How do you become a tour operator?

To become a tour operator, you typically need relevant experience in travel, hospitality, or customer service, along with strong organizational and communication skills. Many professionals start by working in related roles or obtaining certifications in tourism or hospitality management, and some may pursue business licenses or permits depending on the region's regulations.

What is the role of a tour operator?

A tour operator plans, organizes, and sells travel packages to customers, including transportation, accommodations, and activities. They coordinate with suppliers, handle bookings, and ensure the overall customer experience meets quality standards. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of travel regulations are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tour Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Tour Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Tour Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Tour Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tour Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Tour Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Tour Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tour Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,304 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Air Department Manager

Mayflower-Cruises-

Lisle, IL • On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Lead Air Operations for a Global Travel Company

Mayflower Cruises & Tours, a premier escorted tour operator and division of Scenic Group, is seeking an experienced Air Department Manager to oversee our Air Department from our Lisle, Illinois office.

Reporting directly to the Vice President of Operations, you will lead a team of Air Coordinators while managing all aspects of domestic and international air operations. This role is ideal for a travel professional with strong airline ticketing expertise, GDS proficiency, and a passion for delivering exceptional service to travelers.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead, coach, and support the Air Department team to ensure efficient daily operations and exceptional customer service.
  • Manage group air contracts.
  • Oversee the booking, ticketing, reissuance, exchanges, refunds, and cancellations for domestic and international travel.
  • Serve as the primary liaison with Sabre and Amadeus regarding GDS functionality, troubleshooting, and system enhancements.
  • Prepare and submit weekly ARC reports while ensuring compliance with ARC regulations and airline policies.
  • Coordinate airline seat assignments, upgrades, and special service requests.
  • Partner closely with Sales, Operations, and Customer Service teams to communicate flight schedules, itinerary updates, and traveler requests.
  • Monitor air pricing, schedule changes, and airline policies to optimize travel arrangements and operational efficiency.
  • Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company procedures, and quality standards.
  • Identify opportunities to improve workflows, increase productivity, and enhance the customer experience.
Qualifications
  • Minimum 3–5 years of experience in airline reservations, ticketing, or travel operations, with prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
  • Proficiency in Sabre GDS is required.
  • Experience with Amadeus GDS is preferred; training can be provided.
  • Strong knowledge of domestic and international airfare construction, ticketing, exchanges, refunds, reissues, and airline fare rules.
  • Experience managing group air bookings and contracts is highly desirable.
  • Working knowledge of ARC reporting and travel industry regulations.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative travel environment while managing multiple priorities.
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