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Avalanche Forecaster Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alterra

Avalanche Mitigation Supervisor

Solitude, UT

Proficiency with weather and forecasting tools, explosives tracking systems, HR systems, patient ... Fills in for the Avalanche Mitigation Manager as assigned. * Assists with avalanche forecasting ...

Eleven Experience

Snow Safety Manager

Crested Butte, CO · On-site

$6.0K/mo

Lead avalanche forecasting, assessment, and hazard mitigation efforts * Manage the snow safety portion of AM & PM guide meetings. * Manage all run openings and closings * Work as a certified Blaster ...

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Avalanche Forecaster information

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$47K

$65.4K

$113K

How much do avalanche forecaster jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for avalanche forecaster in the United States is $65,382.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $63,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Avalanche Forecaster do?

An Avalanche Forecaster assesses snowpack stability, weather patterns, and terrain to predict avalanche risks. They collect data from field observations, remote sensors, and weather models to create public safety advisories. Forecasters work with ski patrols, highway departments, and backcountry travelers to minimize avalanche dangers. Their job helps protect lives by providing critical information for safe decision-making in avalanche-prone areas.

How much does an avalanche forecaster make?

Avalanche forecasters typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many positions require specialized training, certifications, and knowledge of snow conditions and forecasting tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Avalanche Forecaster position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Avalanche Forecaster, you need expertise in snow science, meteorology, and field observation, often supported by a degree in earth sciences or a related field. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), weather modeling software, and professional certifications such as those from the American Avalanche Association are essential. Strong communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills help forecasters excel when disseminating warnings and collaborating with emergency services or outdoor recreation organizations. These capabilities are critical for accurately predicting avalanche hazards and ensuring public safety in winter mountain environments.

What does a typical workweek look like for an Avalanche Forecaster?

A typical workweek for an Avalanche Forecaster involves a mix of fieldwork and office-based analysis. You may spend several days each week collecting snowpack data in mountainous environments, followed by time in the office analyzing weather patterns, writing forecasts, and issuing avalanche warnings. Collaboration with local authorities, ski patrols, and outdoor groups is common to ensure accurate and timely communication of hazards. The workweek can be dynamic and demanding, especially during periods of high avalanche risk, requiring both flexibility and strong time management skills.

How to become an avalanche forecaster?

To become an avalanche forecaster, typically a candidate needs a background in geology, meteorology, or related fields, along with experience in snowpack analysis and avalanche assessment. Certification from organizations like the American Avalanche Association or equivalent is often required, and field experience in snow conditions and weather patterns is essential for this role.

What is forecasting as a job?

Forecasting as a job involves predicting future conditions or events based on data analysis and models. In roles like avalanche forecasting, professionals assess snowpack stability and weather patterns to provide safety information, often requiring specialized training and tools such as weather stations and computer models.

What does an avalanche forecaster do?

An avalanche forecaster assesses snow and weather conditions to predict avalanche risk. They analyze data from field observations, weather models, and snowpack tests to issue warnings and advisories, often working in remote or mountainous environments and requiring specialized training and certifications.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Avalanche Forecaster jobs? The most popular types of Avalanche Forecaster jobs are:
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Avalanche Forecaster jobs near you
Infographic showing various Avalanche Forecaster job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,382 per year, or $31.4 per hour.
Manager, Avalanche Forecasting, Winter 26-27

Manager, Avalanche Forecasting, Winter 26-27

Alterra

Mammoth Lakes, CA

$85K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days 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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