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Cat Skiing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Winch Cat Operator - Winter Season

Winter Park, CO

$21 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Winch Cat Operator grooms Winter Park snow surfaces utilizing specialized grooming equipment ... Skiing/snowboarding ability desired * First aid desirable. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

Winch Cat Operator - Winter Season

Winter Park, CO · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Winch Cat Operator grooms Winter Park snow surfaces utilizing specialized grooming equipment ... Skiing/snowboarding ability desired * First aid desirable. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

Snow Cat Operator

Bartlett, NH

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

Bartlett, NH · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

Gorham, NH · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

Vail, CO · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Veterinarian

Erie, PA · On-site

$120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Cat-friendly design with separate feline spaces * Loyal, established client base What You'll Do ... skiing, wineries, and four beautiful seasons-small-town feel with big outdoor perks. Ready to love ...

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

Kirkwood, CA

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

West Dover, VT · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

Vail, CO · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

West Dover, VT

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Snow Cat Operator

Bennington, NH · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Cat Skiing information

See salary details

$8

$28

$71

How much do cat skiing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat skiing in the United States is $28.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cat Skiing vs Snowcat Operator?

AspectCat SkiingSnowcat Operator
CertificationsRescue, avalanche training, sometimes ski instructor certificationsOperator licenses, safety training
Work EnvironmentBackcountry, mountain terrain, snow-covered slopesResort or backcountry snowcat vehicles, mountain areas
Industry UsageRecreational skiing, ski resorts, backcountry toursTransporting guests, grooming snow, mountain maintenance

While both roles involve working with snowcat vehicles, Cat Skiing focuses on providing guided backcountry ski experiences, requiring ski and avalanche training. Snowcat Operators primarily operate snowcat vehicles for grooming or transportation, often within resorts or mountain areas. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the snowcat industry.

What is cat skiing?

Cat skiing is an off-trail, downhill skiing or snowboarding activity where a snowcat vehicle transports guests up remote, ungroomed mountains. Unlike traditional resort skiing, cat skiing provides access to fresh powder and untouched terrain far from crowded slopes. It's a guided experience, typically led by professionals who ensure safety and help guests enjoy the best runs. Cat skiing is popular among advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for adventure and deep snow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cat skiing guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cat Skiing Guide, you need strong skiing or snowboarding ability, avalanche safety training, and relevant wilderness first aid certifications. Familiarity with avalanche transceivers, GPS navigation, and snowcat operation is typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills help guides manage groups safely and create a positive guest experience. These skills are crucial for ensuring client safety, managing risks in backcountry environments, and delivering memorable ski adventures.

What are some common challenges faced by cat skiing guides and how can they be addressed?

Cat skiing guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, maintaining group safety in avalanche-prone terrain, and ensuring guests of varying skill levels have an enjoyable experience. To address these, guides must be skilled in avalanche assessment, have strong communication and leadership abilities, and be prepared with contingency plans. Regular training, clear briefings, and teamwork with fellow guides and drivers are essential for managing risks and delivering a safe, memorable adventure.
More about Cat Skiing jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cat Skiing jobs?

The most popular types of Cat Skiing jobs are:

What states have the most Cat Skiing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cat Skiing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Cat Skiing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,513 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Winch Cat Operator - Winter Season

Alterra

Winter Park, CO

$21 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Seasonal

Who We Are: At 67 miles away, Winter Park is the closest ski resort to Denver. With easy access to 765,000 acres of public land, Winter Park is home to endless adventures. Whether you are looking to have your first taste of a winter season or to build a long-term career, we have something for everyone.

Perks & Benefits:

  • Free season pass to Winter Park and all Alterra Resorts
  • Discounted friends & family tickets
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, paid parental leave and more for eligible employees
  • 401(k) plan with 100% company match - up to 4%
  • Mental health resources for all employees
  • Food & beverage and retail discounts
  • Onsite employee childcare based on availability
  • Discounted equipment rentals, pro-deals, and more

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Winch Cat Operator grooms Winter Park snow surfaces utilizing specialized grooming equipment. This person works in an efficient manner and grooms trails with the objective of providing an enjoyable surface for guests. He/she knows capability of machinery and understands terrain park maintenance.

The Groomer will follow all Winter Park policies and procedures, all applicable laws (federal, state, and local), and all health and sanitation codes.

WAGE:

The base hourly pay range below represents the low and high end of Winter Park Resorts' hourly pay range for this position. Actual pay will vary and may be above or below the range based on various factors including but not limited to experience, education, training, location, merit system, quantity or quality of production, responsibilities, and regular and/or necessary travel. The range listed is just one component of Winter Park Resorts' total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include many region-specific benefits.

Hourly pay range:$21 - $27 DOE

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • Pre-operation checkout and fueling of vehicle.
  • Receive instructions for shift from Grooming Supervisor.
  • Preform basic grooming functions from Grooming Supervisor.
  • Perform required work in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Secure work site nightly in a reasonably safe manner, (i.e. holes marked, equipment keys removed).
  • Groom/repair hazards encountered.
  • Inform Supervisor of scheduled jobs not completed.
  • Inform mechanics of necessary repairs and/or service needed.
  • Maintain accurate up-to-date logs on equipment used.
  • Maintain a friendly, congenial, and helpful attitude while effectively dealing with guests, mechanics, and other employees.
  • Report and correct, if possible, unsafe conditions regarding equipment and area of work, or elsewhere on the area.
  • Housekeeping of assigned work/shop/equipment area.
  • Perform other duties as directed.
  • Must be able to maintain a sustainable heath standard in fast changing altitudes and workloads.

This job description is an overview of the scope of responsibilities and is not intended to be an inclusive list of job tasks and expectations. With the evolution of this resort and position, the responsibilities of this position may change.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Education:

  • High School diploma or GED

Experience:

  • Snowcat operator experience - required
  • Winch grooming experience - preferred
  • Understanding the mechanics of snow movement and nomenclature of equipment - required

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Possess a valid, non-restricted motor vehicle license.
  • Able to work irregular hours and to maintain a high level of caution and common sense while performing duties
  • Have reliable transportation to work
  • Skiing/snowboarding ability desired
  • First aid desirable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

This position will be required to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

Mountain Environment:

  • The primary physical environment in which this position works is out of doors with a high exposure level to cold,snow, wind, rain, bugs, sun, high altitude, extreme heights, lightning, etc...
  • The degree of strenuous activity within the job is considered to be high. Often lifting a weight of 50 pounds throughout the day is common.
  • Additional strenuous physical activity may include walking or hiking upon uneven, challenging terrain with heavy tools or equipment.
  • Exposure to: Chemicals required for cleaning, de-greasing, andpainting Ultra Violet radiation from the sun enhanced through lack of atmospheric filtration at work altitude. Fumes produced in activities ranging from cleaning to painting to fabrication of metal products. Noise generated by snowmobiles, lift equipment, and tools may require hearing protection to be worn.
  • Talking and hearing occur continuously in the process of communicating with guests, supervisors and other employees.
  • Vision occurs continuously with the most common visual functions being those of near vision and depth perception.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily - reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED:

This position description is an overview of the scope of responsibilities for the role described above. With the evolution of Winter Park Resort, the responsibilities of this position may change as may the dates associated with many of the tasks. During these times of change, this position requires the flexibility and willingness to accept new responsibilities and potentially transfer others. It will also be the responsibility of any employee of Winter Park Resort to be a positive influence on the transformation of the resort and its associated lines of business.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
Winter Park Resort is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any term, condition, or privilege of employment.

Application Deadline: Recruiting timelines vary by position, however, all Winter Park Resort positions accept applications for a minimum of 3 business days from the posting date listed above. This position is open and still accepting applications.