About Company
For over a century, AAA has been a trusted name, synonymous with reliability, service, and peace of mind. As a division of The Auto Club Group, AAA Travel is dedicated to helping our members explore the world with confidence and convenience. We pride ourselves on creating unforgettable travel experiences, offering expert advice, exclusive benefits, and unparalleled support. Joining AAA means becoming part of a legacy of service, working with a team committed to excellence, and helping thousands of individuals and families fulfill their travel dreams. We foster a supportive environment where innovation and customer satisfaction are at the forefront of everything we do.
Job Description
Are you passionate about travel and possess a talent for crafting seamless, memorable itineraries? AAA Travel is seeking an experienced and customer-focused Travel Planner to join our dynamic team. This exciting role offers a hybrid work model, providing the flexibility of remote work coupled with the opportunity for collaborative engagement at our Downtown Fort Lauderdale location for team meetings, training, and strategic planning sessions as needed. As a Travel Planner, you will be instrumental in turning our members’ travel aspirations into reality. You will consult with clients to understand their unique needs, research diverse destinations, and meticulously plan every aspect of their journey, from flights and accommodations to activities and excursions. We are looking for an individual who is not only a travel expert but also a proactive problem-solver with exceptional communication skills and a commitment to delivering outstanding service. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and are dedicated to making every trip an extraordinary adventure, we invite you to apply and contribute to AAA’s enduring legacy of member satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
- Consult with AAA members to understand their travel preferences, budget, and desired experiences for both domestic and international destinations.
- Research, recommend, and book comprehensive travel components, including flights, hotels, cruises, car rentals, tours, and excursions, utilizing various booking platforms and Global Distribution Systems (GDS).
- Design and present customized, detailed itineraries that cater to individual, family, and group travel needs, ensuring all preferences are met.
- Provide expert advice on travel regulations, visa requirements, passport necessities, destination-specific health advisories, and travel insurance options.
- Process payments, manage bookings, and handle all travel documentation accurately and efficiently, ensuring timely delivery to clients.
- Offer exceptional pre-travel, during-travel, and post-travel customer service, addressing any inquiries, changes, or unforeseen issues promptly and professionally.
- Stay continuously updated on global travel industry trends, emerging destinations, supplier offerings, and technological advancements.
- Actively participate in professional development and training sessions to enhance product knowledge and sales techniques.
- Proactively identify opportunities to cross-sell and upsell AAA travel products and services to maximize member value.
- Maintain meticulous client records and ensure compliance with all company policies and industry regulations.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 2 years of proven experience as a Travel Agent, Travel Advisor, or Travel Planner.
- Extensive knowledge of domestic and international travel destinations, regulations, and industry best practices.
- Proficiency in using at least one major Global Distribution System (GDS) such as Sabre, Amadeus, or Worldspan.
- Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and sales skills, with a strong client-centric approach.
- Highly organized with meticulous attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple complex bookings simultaneously.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently in a remote setting while also contributing effectively to a team.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and grace under pressure when handling unexpected travel disruptions.
- High school diploma or equivalent; relevant travel certifications are a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Tourism, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
- Travel industry certifications such as Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC).
- Experience with CRM software and other travel-related technology platforms.
- Multilingual capabilities, particularly Spanish or Portuguese, to assist a diverse clientele.
- Familiarity with cruise line booking engines and major tour operator platforms.
- Prior experience working with a membership-based organization.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary combined with an attractive commission structure.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contributions.
- Generous paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- Exclusive travel discounts, incentives, and opportunities for familiarization (FAM) trips.
- Ongoing professional development, training programs, and career advancement opportunities.
- Flexible work arrangements with a remote option, fostering work-life balance.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment focused on member success.
- Access to exclusive AAA member benefits and services.
How to Apply
To embark on this exciting journey with AAA, please submit your application through our official careers portal by clicking the link below. We encourage you to highlight your relevant experience, proficiency with GDS, and your passion for travel in your resume and cover letter. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and potentially welcoming you to our dedicated team of travel experts.