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Tourism Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tourism Manager

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

The Tourism Manager is an exempt, full-time position with benefits and an anticipated hiring range of $75,857.60 - $85,342.40 annually; however, an exact salary will be dependent upon the selected ...

Tourism Counselor

Spotsylvania, VA · On-site

$13.86 - $19.54/hr

Reports to the Assistant Tourism Manager. *This position is less than 20 hours per week.* Special Duties & Responsibilities * Greets visitors to the Spotsylvania Visitors Center and County Museum ...

Reports to the Assistant Tourism Manager. *This position is less than 20 hours per week.* Special Duties & Responsibilities Greets visitors to the Spotsylvania Visitors Center and County Museum ...

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Tourism Manager information

What does a tourism manager do?

A Tourism Manager is responsible for promoting and developing tourism opportunities within a specific region or organization. They coordinate marketing campaigns, collaborate with local businesses and government agencies, and manage events or packages that attract visitors. Their role often involves researching market trends, improving visitor experiences, and ensuring sustainable tourism practices. Tourism Managers also oversee budgets, staff, and partnerships to boost the economic impact of tourism in their area.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tourism manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tourism Manager, you need strong organizational skills, a background in hospitality or tourism management, and typically a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with booking systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and analytics tools is important for efficient operations. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help you manage teams and deliver exceptional guest experiences. These skills ensure smooth business operations, satisfied customers, and the ability to adapt to the dynamic nature of the tourism industry.

What are the typical challenges a tourism manager faces when balancing guest satisfaction with operational efficiency?

Tourism Managers often juggle the need to provide exceptional guest experiences while also maintaining budgetary constraints and efficient operations. Challenges may include managing staff schedules during peak seasons, handling unexpected changes such as weather disruptions, and adapting to diverse guest needs. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the role frequently requires quick decision-making and collaboration with departments like marketing, catering, and event planning. By staying organized and fostering a strong team environment, Tourism Managers can successfully balance these demands and ensure both guest satisfaction and smooth operations.

What is the difference between Tourism Manager vs Travel Coordinator?

AspectTourism ManagerTravel Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in tourism, hospitality, or related field; certifications like Certified Travel Associate (CTA)High school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications like Certified Travel Associate (CTA)
Work EnvironmentHotels, resorts, tourism boards, travel agencies, event venuesTravel agencies, corporate travel departments, tour operators
Employer & Industry UsageTourism boards, hospitality companies, event organizersTravel agencies, corporate clients, tour companies
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on managing tourism projects, marketing, and destination promotionFocuses on booking, itinerary planning, and client coordination

The main difference is that a Tourism Manager oversees tourism operations, marketing, and destination promotion, while a Travel Coordinator handles client bookings, travel arrangements, and itinerary planning. Both roles require knowledge of the travel industry, but their responsibilities and work environments differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tourism jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Tourism jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Tourism Manager jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Tourism Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Tourism Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution.

Tourism Manager

City of Harrisonburg

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Harrisonburg (pop. approximately 56,879). Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and one of the fastest-growing cities in Virginia, Harrisonburg is a thriving, multicultural university city and is home to James Madison University and Eastern Mennonite University.

With recognition as the commonwealth's first culinary district, exciting outdoor recreation activities within the city and nearby, a thriving arts community, and being known as "The Friendly City," there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Harrisonburg Department of Economic Development is currently seeking a leader who is excited to join our dedicated team of community service professionals as our next Tourism Manager. The ideal candidate will be a creative, strategic thinker with the ability to position Harrisonburg competitively.

We are seeking a collaborative relationship-builder who can strengthen our business, arts, and regional partners. This leader shall possess a passion for placemaking and enhancing the visitor experience. This is an amazing opportunity for an individual who has great attention to detail and is a good communicator and progressive innovator to make a difference.

And you'll do it in a vibrant, modern, and diverse college community boasting a happening atmosphere infused with a serious passion for local food and libations, cutting-edge arts and culture, and the historic roots that anchor it to the famous Shenandoah Valley landscape. Find out more information related to this position and the City by viewing the recruitment brochure. The Tourism Manager is an exempt, full-time position with benefits and an anticipated hiring range of $75,857.60 - $85,342.40 annually; however, an exact salary will be dependent upon the selected candidate's qualifications and experience

A detailed list of essential functions and the ideal candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities is available in the class specification. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree with coursework in marketing, tourism and/or hospitality management, public relations, communications, journalism, public administration, or related field and moderate (1-3 years) experience in marketing and tourism, including supervisory experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered for this requirement.

Valid Virginia driver's license or the ability to obtain one within a timeline deemed appropriate by the department. Bilingual abilities preferred. Click here to view the physical requirements of this position.

The selected candidate for this position will be subject to the following screenings and must receive satisfactory results: Social media screening; DMV driving record review; Credit history review; Criminal background investigation. Supplemental Information Application Requirements: In order to be considered for this position, applicants must submit the following: City of Harrisonburg online application, cover letter attachment, resume attachment, and 3 professional references. All required fields on the online employment application must be completed, including your education history and work experience.

Incomplete applications and applications with verification(s) of no prior education and/or work history will not be considered. (posted on 07/20/2026) Applicants unable to attach documents via the online application should email the missing documentation to employment@harrisonburgva.gov in order to be further considered. First Review Date: No Sooner Than August 10, 2026

Candidates will not receive an application status update until after this date. Due to the amount of information requested from candidates, please allow a minimum of 10 business days from the first review date to receive a status update. The City provides an excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement (VRS & MissionSquare), life insurance, paid leave (including upfront sick leave) and 15.5 holidays

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or veteran status. The City of Harrisonburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.