What are the responsibilities and job description for the IT Director - Resort position at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions?
Welcome to the Kalahari Experience
At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, we don't just create vacations—we craft unforgettable experiences. Home to America's Largest Indoor Waterparks, our African-inspired resorts offer world-class dining, luxurious spas, thrilling entertainment, and cutting-edge convention centers that redefine hospitality.
But we're more than a resort. As a major employer, we provide thousands of jobs and career growth opportunities while delivering exceptional service. Our associates take care of millions of guests each year, making every visit special.
Beyond our walls, we're making a difference. Through our partnership with charity: water, we're committed to bringing clean water to one million people in Africa.
IT Director
We're seeking a highly skilled, on-site IT Director to join our Information Technology team at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. In this key leadership role, you will oversee the resort's IT operations, infrastructure, and support functions, ensuring a secure, reliable, and guest-ready technology experience across all departments.
This position plays a critical role in developing, implementing, and supporting a wide range of applications, devices, platforms, and IT systems while managing and mentoring a high-performing team. From system upgrades and data integrations to security standards and guest-facing technologies, your leadership will help power the entire Kalahari experience.
We're searching for a seasoned IT leader with deep technical knowledge and proven team management experience. The ideal candidate brings both strategic vision and a hands-on approach, capable of translating business needs into IT solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead day-to-day operations and long-term planning for resort IT systems and platforms.
- Manage a team responsible for application support, infrastructure, device management, and guest-facing technologies.
- Support and enhance systems such as POS, PMS, AV, CRM, and marketing platforms.
- Oversee upgrades, patches, and software rollouts across operational environments.
- Collaborate with business units to gather requirements, architect solutions, and ensure timely delivery.
- Maintain compliance with IT security protocols and data privacy standards (PCI, PII, SOX, GDPR, etc.).
- Manage third-party vendors and service providers.
- Participate in an on-call rotation and remain available to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends.
- Travel occasionally to support IT operations at other resort locations.
Qualifications & Experience
- A bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, MIS, or a related field is preferred; or equivalent professional experience (10 years).
- Proven leadership experience managing IT teams and technical projects.
- Background in hospitality, entertainment, or retail IT environments is strongly preferred.
- Experience with POS systems, property management, payment processing, guest-facing applications, and data platforms.
- Knowledge of server/workstation OS (Windows, Linux), SQL databases, APIs, and data warehousing (Snowflake, SQL Server).
- Experience with ITIL tools (ManageEngine, ServiceNow) and change management best practices.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
A Sampling of Our Benefits
Our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Career growth opportunities with promotion from within
- 401(k) matching, paid time off, and holiday compensation
- Health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time associates
- Employee appreciation events, discounts, and perks at all resorts
- Education assistance programs to help advance your career
Be Part of Something Extraordinary
At Kalahari, we're proud to be recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best Midsize Employers and by USA TODAY as the #1 Best Indoor Water Park. These awards reflect our commitment to both our guests and team members.
Here, careers thrive, innovation is encouraged, and every day brings new opportunities to create meaningful moments. Whether you're delivering incredible guest service, crafting memorable meals, or leading a team, your work makes a real impact.
Current locations include Wisconsin Dells, WI (2000), Sandusky, OH (2005), Pocono Manor, PA (2015), Round Rock, TX (2020), and Spotsylvania County, VA (2026).
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
