Lift Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sugar Bowl is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and results-driven Lift Operations Manager to lead the daily operations of our lift system. This role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and seamless lift operations across the resort, while fostering a strong team culture and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

We're looking for a strategic, hands-on, and highly organized leader who is decisive, adaptable, and team-focused, with the ability to motivate staff and manage operations in a fast-paced mountain environment. From staffing and training to safety oversight and operational execution, you'll play a critical role in keeping the mountain running smoothly.

Why Sugar Bowl?

Sugar Bowl Resort has been proudly independent for over 80 years and is one of the oldest ski resorts in California. Situated atop beautiful Donner Summit, Sugar Bowl has a storied past with ties to Austrian ski culture, Hollywood and Walt Disney. This special community helped bring skiing to "sunny California" since December 1939. Since then, it continues to attract adventurous winter sports enthusiasts alike.

Who You Are:

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Energetic, friendly, and outgoing with strong customer service skills

Collaborative and able to work effectively across departments

A proactive self-starter with sound judgment and decision-making skills

Able to manage tasks independently with minimal supervision

Positive, motivating leader with strong team management skills

Safety- and service-oriented, with a commitment to excellence

Able to ski or snowboard groomed runs (intermediate to advanced level)

What You'll do:

Oversee all daily lift operations, including setup, snow removal, ramp maintenance, and shutdown

Hire, train, schedule, and motivate Lift Operations staff

Lead the Lift Operations Supervisors, Trainers, and Leads.

Oversee the development and implementation of pre-season and in-season training programs

Ensure all team members are on time, in uniform, and meeting performance expectations

Maintain department supplies, tools, and operational readiness

Monitor staffing levels and manage expenses in alignment with budget goals

Oversee Ticket Checking and pass issue resolution

Conduct regular safety meetings and follow up on incidents and injuries

Respond to ramp-related incidents and ensure proper reporting

Address guest service situations professionally and efficiently

Oversee lift facility inspections, including ramps, shacks, and locker rooms

Ensure lifts open on schedule and operate efficiently throughout the day

Maintain ramp conditions during storms and spring melt, including rebuilds

Participate in and manage snow day operations

Operate snowmobiles and coordinate transportation as needed

Collaborate closely with Lift Maintenance, Ticketing, Security, and Resort Operations teams

Implement and oversee the Kids on Lifts Under 51" program, including monthly refresher training

Physical Requirements:

Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow, wind, and cold temperatures

Frequent shoveling and snow removal; ability to operate a snowblower (if trained)

Ability to stand and remain active for extended periods (8+ hours per shift)

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. regularly

Capability to perform physically demanding tasks, including shoveling and ramp maintenance

Ability to safely operate equipment such as snowmobiles

Employee Winter Benefits:

Employer sponsored 401k plan after 1,000 worked hours and one (1) year of service

Paid sick time

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Free ski and tubing passes

Free ski passes for eligible dependents

50% off food at our restaurants

Free group ski and snowboard lessons

discounted lift tickets for family and friends

Lift ticket discounts at multiple resorts including 24 Mountain Collective destinations

Hotel discounts

Free participating resort skiing/riding reciprocal programs

Sugar Bowl Resort believes that all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate against its employees or applicants because of race, color, hair, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender orientation, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, citizenship, veteran status, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation. Equal employment opportunity will be extended to all persons in all aspects of the employer-employee relationship, including recruitment, hiring, upgrading, training, promotion, transfer, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination.