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Avalanche Control Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Avalanche Control information

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$12

$24

$38

How much do avalanche control jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for avalanche control in California is $24.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an avalanche control?

An Avalanche Control job involves assessing, preventing, and mitigating avalanche risks in mountainous areas. Professionals in this field use explosives, specialized equipment, and forecasting techniques to trigger controlled avalanches or stabilize slopes. They often work for ski resorts, transportation agencies, or government organizations to ensure the safety of people and infrastructure. This job requires knowledge of snow science, weather patterns, and mountain safety, as well as training in explosives handling and rescue operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed for avalanche control?

To thrive in Avalanche Control, a solid background in snow science, meteorology, and mountaineering is essential, typically supported by specialized avalanche safety certifications. Proficiency with technical equipment such as explosives, weather monitoring tools, and avalanche forecasting software is required. Strong decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills are critical for coordinating rapid responses and ensuring crew safety. These abilities are vital, as avalanche control work involves high-risk environments where accurate analysis and effective collaboration protect lives and infrastructure.

What are the typical working conditions and schedule for avalanche control?

Avalanche Control professionals often work in mountainous or alpine environments where weather conditions can be unpredictable and challenging. The role typically involves early morning starts, variable hours, and the need to be on-call during heavy snowfall or adverse weather periods. Work is conducted outdoors, sometimes in remote areas, and involves both solo and team-based tasks, such as snowpack assessment and controlled avalanche release. Collaboration with ski patrols, highway maintenance teams, and emergency services is common, making communication and teamwork essential parts of the job. This dynamic and physically demanding role is well-suited to those who enjoy working in outdoor, high-stakes environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Avalanche Control jobs in California?

The most popular types of Avalanche Control jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Avalanche Control jobs in California?

For Avalanche Control jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Avalanche Control jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Avalanche Control jobs in California are:

Avalanche Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Avalanche Control job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,160 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Manager, Avalanche Forecasting, Winter 26-27

Alterra

Mammoth Lakes, CA

$85K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 hours ago

Job description

Seasonal

At Mammoth Mountain, you will live the dream!

Work and play in the majestic mountains with a free season pass that opens the doors to adventure at all Alterra Resorts. Your whole family can share this excitement with free skiing for dependents and a range of valuable discounts. It is more than a job; it is an opportunity to embrace the beauty of Mammoth Lakes, California.

Benefits and perks of your adventure here:

  • Ski passes for dependents (spouse/child(ren)/domestic partners) includes free skiing at other Alterra Resorts
  • Free skiing at all Alterra Resorts
  • Ski/snowboarding lessons discounts
  • Equipment Rental discount
  • Friends and Family vouchers
  • Retail & Food discount
  • 401k with company match

*Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check

A little about this position:

  • Working under the direction of the Assistant Director Snow safety, collect and analyze weather and snowpack data to support avalanche forecast products at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. Collaborate with Assistant Director Snow Safety and Ski Patrol Leadership to make avalanche risk management decisions for avalanche workers and ski area operations at Mammoth. Provide avalanche safety training to the Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol under the dirextion of the Assistant Director, Snow Safety. Mentor and assist front line Patrol staff with daily duties when appropriate.
  • This role combines field leadership with administrative oversight and requires strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, expert skiing ability, strong downhill mountain biking ability, and the ability to lead effectively. The Patrol Manager works closely with the Assistant Director, Snow Safety and Director of Patrol to coordinate staffing, training, avalanche mitigation support, operational priorities, and emergency response readiness across the mountain.

Requirements:

  • EMT, EMR, WFR or equivalent to 80-hour minimum first aid certification
  • Current CPR training and certification
  • Meet or exceed expectations and experience of/or equivalent to Master Patroller at MMSP
  • Extensive avalanche mitigation experience utilizing explosives, artillery and/or remote avalanche control systems
  • Current licensed blaster in State of California or eligibility and willingness to obtain
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze snowpack and weather information to make safety sensitive decisions
  • Ability to make operational and forecasting decisions in the absence of the Assistant Director Snow Safety
  • Advanced computer skills with familiarity performing tasks using MS Office products, database management and mapping products
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Expert skiing skills with comfort skiing in avalanche terrain in all snow conditions
  • Minimum of 5 winter seasons working as an avalanche professional
  • Pro 2 or equivalent avalanche course certification recognized by the American Avalanche Association or Canadian Avalanche Association
  • Minimum 5 years avalanche forecasting experience for a ski area operation, mechanized skiing operation, highway or industrial operation
  • Expert level skills operating a snowmobile in inclement weather conditions
  • Experience as an avalanche educator or in a training role within an avalanche operation
  • Experience in avalanche search and rescue, including having participated in organized rescue practice annually
  • Demonstrated commitment to annual continuing professional development

Pay: $85,489.17 - $90,916.88 per year

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations.

Mammoth Mountain is an equal opportunity employer.

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