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Mountain Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Director, Ski Patrol

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$123K - $133K/yr

Works closely with the VP of Mountain Operations and the patrol leadership group to set operational objectives. * This role combines field leadership with administrative oversight and requires strong ...

Collaborate with station personnel, Patrol Management, Snow Safety leadership, Grooming, Mountain Operations, and other departments to achieve operational objectives. * Maintain accountability for ...

Lead Ski Patrol

Kirkwood, CA · On-site

$24 - $30.61/hr

Collaborate with station personnel, Patrol Management, Snow Safety leadership, Grooming, Mountain Operations, and other departments to achieve operational objectives. * Maintain accountability for ...

Race & Events Crew

CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

... Mountain Operations, and other resort departments • Perform additional duties that help create safe, successful events and exceptional guest experiences Physical Requirements: • Able to ski ...

Race & Events Crew

Norden, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

... Operations, Patrol, Grooming, Mountain Operations, and other resort departments Perform additional duties that help create safe, successful events and exceptional guest experiences Physical ...

The ideal candidate will have a passion for terrain park innovation and a strong background in snow grooming and mountain operations What's in it for you? * Proposed hourly rate of $27.00 actual pay ...

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Showing results 1-20

Mountain Operations information

See California salary details

$9

$23

$48

How much do mountain operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for mountain operations in California is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mountain operations?

A Mountain Operations job involves maintaining and managing the daily functions of a ski resort or mountain recreational area. Duties can include lift maintenance, snowmaking, grooming trails, and ensuring guest safety. Employees in this role often work in various weather conditions and may operate heavy machinery. It's a hands-on job that requires teamwork, problem-solving, and a strong understanding of mountain environments.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working in mountain operations?

Mountain Operations professionals are responsible for maintaining slopes, operating and servicing lifts and grooming equipment, managing snowmaking systems, and ensuring safety protocols are followed throughout the mountain environment. Daily tasks may include inspecting and repairing equipment, clearing hazardous areas, monitoring weather and avalanche risks, and coordinating with ski patrol and other departments. The work often involves early mornings, variable hours, and being outdoors in all weather conditions. Working closely with other team members, Mountain Operations staff play a crucial role in delivering a safe and enjoyable experience for all mountain visitors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in mountain operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Mountain Operations, you need a solid understanding of terrain management, equipment operation, basic maintenance skills, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant certifications such as avalanche safety or snowcat operation. Familiarity with specialized tools and machinery like snow groomers, chairlift systems, and weather monitoring technology is essential. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you adapt to changing conditions and work efficiently with diverse crews. These capabilities ensure the safe, smooth, and efficient functioning of mountain recreation areas, directly impacting guest experience and operational success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mountain Operations jobs in California?

The most popular types of Mountain Operations jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Mountain Operations job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,581 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Soda Springs Mountain Operations Crew Member - Housing Available

Powdr

Truckee, CA

$18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Woodward Tahoe (Boreal and Soda Springs), located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountain range, is a year-round world-class action sports facility with a culture that comes straight from our main product: Fun. If this sounds like the kind of place you'd like to work, progress, and play, we'd love to hear from you!

Join the Soda Springs Mountain Operations team and become an essential part of delivering the fun and family-friendly experience our guests love. This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to learn the many sides of mountain operations while working in a supportive, small-team environment.

Mountain Operations Team Members will work across a variety of departments-including lift operations, tubing park operations, parking, and ticket checking. We'll work with you to place you in a position that best suits your interests and strengths while offering opportunities to learn and grow in other areas.

If you're looking for a dynamic, hands-on role where no two days are the same, this is the spot for you!

This is a Full-Time or Part Time, Seasonal position with employee housing available starting at $325/month.

Perks:

  • Starting pay: $18/hour

  • Health insurance options for ALL employees

  • Employee housing available - starting at just $325/month

  • Free season pass to Boreal, Soda Springs, and all POWDR resorts

  • Full access to the Bunker-Woodward Tahoe's indoor training facility with trampolines, foam pits, skateparks, and more

  • Discounts on food, retail, and gear

  • Discounts for friends and family

  • Work in a fun, supportive, mountain-town environment

  • Career advancement opportunities across the Woodward and POWDR network

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Assisting guests and operating lifts safely and efficiently.

  • Supporting tubing park operations including helping guests, maintaining lanes, and ensuring safe usage.

  • Directing traffic and maintaining safe, organized parking during busy days.

  • Scanning or checking tickets to ensure valid access to the resort.

  • Jumping in to help wherever needed within Mountain Ops - snow removal, signage, queue setup, etc.

  • Working with a small, tight-knit crew that supports each other across departments.

  • Learning the ins and outs of how a mountain resort runs, from frontline guest service to behind-the-scenes operations.

Work Environment:


You'll be working outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow, wind, and cold temperatures. Positions may involve standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and interacting with guests in fast-paced or high-traffic areas. A positive attitude, adaptability, and willingness to learn are essential.

Qualifications:

  • No prior experience required - we'll train the right people.

  • Strong communication and guest service skills.

  • Willingness to work outside in varying conditions.

  • Team-player attitude and an eagerness to learn multiple aspects of mountain operations.

  • Must be reliable and able to show up ready to work during all weather conditions.

Come be part of the small but mighty team at Soda Springs. Whether you're scanning tickets one day, helping families tube the next, or learning how our lifts run behind the scenes - you'll gain hands-on experience and be part of what makes winter happen.

You make us Woodward. We are a welcoming community that celebrates individual stories, backgrounds, experiences, and identities where we all have "different" in common. We believe in the strength of representing all voices and having space for everyone. We believe in pushing boundaries and bringing our authentic selves to work while embracing uniqueness, creativity, and different points of view. Even if you don't think you meet all the qualifications listed for a job, we'd love to hear from you.


If you need assistance with your application, please reach out to talentandculture@woodwardmountaincenters.com


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About Powdr

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Amusement, gambling, and recreation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Park City, UT, US

Year founded

1993