Entry Level First Responder Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Create Your Experience of a Lifetime!

Come work and play in the mountains!  Whether it’s your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means discovering (or re-discovering!) a passion for the outdoors while building lifelong connections with teammates and guests from around the world.

With 40+ resorts across 3 continents, you can join our team for a season or stay to build a career. From day one, you'll receive some of the highest compensation rates in the industry, free Epic pass(es) along with free ski and snowboard lessons, 40% retail discounts, the chance to grow through Epic Service - our leading training and development experience, and wellness benefits to fuel your success.

Candidates for year-round positions are reviewed on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted up to 90 days after the posting date, or until the position is filled (whichever is first).
 

Job Benefits

• Ski/Mountain Perks! Free passes for employees, employee discounted lift tickets for friends and family AND free ski lessons 
• MORE employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles
• 401(k) Retirement Plan 
• Employee Assistance Program
• Excellent training and professional development
• Referral Program
   

Full Time roles are eligible for the above, plus:

• Health Insurance; Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, and Vision Insurance plans (for eligible seasonal employees after working 500 hours)
• Free ski passes for dependents
• Critical Illness and Accident plans

Job Summary:  

We are seeking a motivated and safety-focused Entry-Level Ski Lift Maintenance Assistant/Mechanic to join our mountain operations team. This role provides a hands-on opportunity to work alongside experienced lift maintenance personnel to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all aerial and surface lift systems. No prior lift maintenance experience is required—just a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and mechanical aptitude. 

Job Specifications:  

• Starting Wage: $21.47/hr - $26.29/hr  

• Employment Type: Year Round  

• Shift Type: Full Time hours available 

• • Early mornings, weekends, holidays, nights and overtime shifts may be required 

• Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age  

• Housing Availability: No 

• Working Conditions:  

• • Physically demanding tasks including lifting, climbing, and kneeling 

• • Outdoor alpine environment with exposure to extreme weather 

Job Responsibilities: 

• Assist in routine maintenance and inspections of chairlifts, gondolas, and surface lifts 

• Support mechanics with daily start-up procedures and pre-operational checks 

• Perform basic tasks such as cleaning equipment, tightening bolts, and monitoring equipment under supervision 

• Learn to identify and report signs of mechanical wear or abnormal operation 

• Transport tools, materials, and equipment to and from lift locations 

• Maintain clean and organized workspaces in lift shacks and maintenance areas 

• Adhere to all safety policies, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) 

• Participate in on-the-job training and technical instruction to develop skills and advance to higher-level mechanic roles 

• Assist with snow removal around lift terminals and access areas as needed 

• Respond to lift stoppages and assist with mechanical troubleshooting under supervision 

Job Requirements: 

• Mechanical aptitude or experience with tools, equipment, or outdoor machinery 

• Comfortable working outdoors in alpine weather and at heights 

• Able to lift and carry 50 pounds 

• Able to follow instructions and communicate effectively with team members 

• Must have or ability to obtain a valid US driver’s license 
• Intermediate ski/snowboard ability preferred 

The expected pay range is $21.47/hr - $26.29/hr. This is the pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

In completing this application, and when submitting related documentation, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, and/or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. 

We follow all federal, state, and local laws including restrictions on child/minor labor. Minors hired into this position will not be asked or permitted to engage in any activities restricted to adult workers.

Vail Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Requisition ID  514759
Reference Date: 05/08/2026 
Job Code Function: Lift Maintenance