Title: Mercantile and Tour Manager
Exciting things are happening at the Argo Mill and Tunnel Site. The Mighty Argo Cable car is under construction and will be opening in late ’25 or early ’26. The Mill and Tunnel operation will be working hand in hand with this major new experience and there will be opportunities to co-promote and collaborate on many levels. This position will report to ownership.
The Mercantile and Tour Manager oversees the daily operations of the Argo Mercantile and tour programs at the historic Argo Mill & Tunnel. This role ensures an engaging and memorable visitor experience through effective management of retail operations and well-organized, informative tours. The Manager will supervise staff, handle inventory, design visual merchandising, and develop tour schedules that reflect the historic significance of the Argo Mill. This role also includes responsibilities for maintaining high customer service standards in both the mercantile and tour programs. The Mercantile and Tour Manager is the “face” of the Mighty Argo to the public and the keeper of the Brand.
Essential Functions:
Inventory Management
•Monitor inventory to ensure a well-stocked store, order products, and maintain accurate records.
•Source unique, historically relevant merchandise in collaboration with local vendors to enhance the Argo experience.
Customer Service
•Ensure a positive, welcoming environment for visitors and provide high-quality customer service.
•Train mercantile staff on product knowledge, upselling techniques, and customer engagement.
•Address guest inquiries and resolve complaints professionally.
Visual Merchandising
•Design and maintain displays that highlight the historic charm of Argo Mill.
•Regularly update displays to keep them fresh, seasonally relevant, and visually appealing.
Sales and Financial Management
•Track daily sales, manage the POS system, and prepare regular sales and inventory reports.
•Work with the management team to develop pricing strategies and achieve sales targets.
Staff Supervision
•Recruit, train, and supervise mercantile staff, developing schedules that align with visitor peaks.
Tour Management:
Tour Scheduling and Coordination
•Develop and manage daily and seasonal tour schedules to optimize visitor flow and meet guest demand.
•Act as Manager on Duty during peak times, ensuring smooth operations and addressing any tour-related issues.
Tour Guide Training and Supervision
•Recruit, train, and oversee Tour Guides, ensuring they follow established tour scripts to provide a consistent, high-quality visitor experience.
•Conduct regular evaluations and provide coaching to Tour Guides, enhancing their storytelling and guest engagement skills.
Visitor Experience
•Coordinate with the management team to align tours with the Argo Mill's historical significance and unique character.
•Address visitor questions and concerns, ensuring a positive and educational experience.
Marketing and Promotions
•Work with marketing to promote both the mercantile and tours, including special seasonal tours or promotional events. Social media and web page oversight.
•Engage with community partners to increase awareness and participation in tours, especially among local schools and history enthusiasts.
Qualifications:
Education
•High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s degree in Retail Management, History, Tourism, or a related field preferred.
Experience
•Minimum of 2 years in retail and/or tour management, preferably in a historical or tourist-oriented setting.
•Marketing and social media skills a plus
Skills
•Excellent organizational skills with experience in inventory, scheduling, and time management.
•Strong interpersonal and communication abilities to engage visitors and supervise staff and work with ownership effectively.
•Proficiency in using POS systems, scheduling tools, and basic financial reporting software, QuickBooks preferred.
•Knowledge of historical storytelling techniques and retail display best practices.
Other Requirements
•Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand for long periods, and navigate uneven surfaces.
•Availability to work weekends, holidays, and during peak tourism seasons as required.
Work Environment:
The position operates in both a retail and tour environment, requiring adaptability to indoor and outdoor settings, exposure to varied temperatures, and occasional noise typical of a historical site. Physical activity, including standing, walking, and lifting, is frequent.
Job Posting: Applications will be accepted until May 31, 2025.
ARGO Mill, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace free of unlawful discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, veteran status, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
•Idaho Springs, CO 80452 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
•Idaho Springs, CO 80452: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person