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Snow Cat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Operate Snow Cat equipment safely and efficiently, perform all grooming, and feature building as ... operating instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals, as well as record data ...

... operating and maintaining modern snowmaking equipment. Other responsibilities include electrical and mechanical problem-solving, heavy equipment operation, snow cat operation, and grounds ...

Wireline Engineer

Kenai, AK · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

While some fields are only minutes from our two shops, others are so remote that we have traveled to location by helicopter, bush plane, snow cat train and boat. As in much of the industry no two ...

While some fields are only minutes from our two shops, others are so remote that we have traveled to location by helicopter, bush plane, snow cat train and boat. As in much of the industry no two ...

... that include operating slope-grooming and snow-removal equipment, as well as organizing and ... Possess a valid driver's license * 2 years previous snow cat experience * Have excellent verbal ...

Able to attach and remove implements from snow cat (blades, tiller, zauggs, etc.) * Understand shop ... being operated or worked around. Interpersonal Contacts Daily contact with the Mt. operations ...

Yard Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee ... Maintains grounds including snow removal * Monitors and maintains fuel and fluid levels for shops ...

Yard Operator

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee ... Maintains grounds including snow removal * Monitors and maintains fuel and fluid levels for shops ...

... that include operating slope-grooming and snow-removal equipment, as well as organizing and ... Possess a valid driver's license * 2 years previous snow cat experience * Have excellent verbal ...

Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator to support our customers, service, and ... Maintain grounds including snow removal * Monitor and maintain fuel and fluid levels for shops and ...

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Snow Cat Operator information

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$10

$23

$37

How much do snow cat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for snow cat operator in the United States is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Snow Cat Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snow Cat Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience operating heavy machinery, often supported by a valid driver's license and safety training. Familiarity with GPS navigation, snow grooming equipment, and preventative maintenance protocols is typically required. Reliability, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality snow surface preparation in challenging and often unpredictable mountain environments.

What are the typical work hours and environment for a Snow Cat Operator?

Snow Cat Operators often work night shifts and early mornings to groom ski slopes before the resorts open, and shifts can extend into weekends and holidays during peak season. The role is primarily outdoors in mountain environments, where weather conditions can be extreme and visibility limited, so adaptability and safety awareness are crucial. Teamwork is important, as you will coordinate with other operators, maintenance staff, and ski patrol. While the work can be physically demanding and solitary at times, it is also rewarding for those who enjoy working independently in nature. Over time, experienced operators may have opportunities to advance to lead operator or supervisory roles.

What is a Snow Cat Operator job?

A Snow Cat Operator is responsible for operating a snowcat vehicle to groom and maintain snow-covered terrain, typically at ski resorts or mountainous areas. Their duties include smoothing trails, building terrain features, and ensuring safe skiing or snowboarding conditions. Operators work in varying weather conditions, often overnight, to prepare slopes for the next day. The role requires mechanical knowledge, attention to detail, and experience handling heavy machinery on snow.

More about Snow Cat Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Snow Cat Operator jobs? Cities with the most Snow Cat Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Snow Cat Operator jobs? The most popular types of Snow Cat Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Snow Cat Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Snow Cat Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Snow Cat Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Full Time, 87% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,930 per year, or $23 per hour.

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Description 

The Snow Grooming Operator position is essential to mountain operations. Grooming staff should be detail oriented, experienced with heavy equipment, and have a great work ethic. Being able to work alone and stay on task is a must.  Must have at least four years of prior experience.

Responsibilities (But not limited to)

  • Operate snow grooming equipment in a safe and efficient manner in coordination with the Mountain Operations.

  • Groom and maintain the ski runs and lift ramps.

  • Maintain snow grooming equipment.

  • Maintain snow grooming equipment and perform minor equipment maintenance and repairs; assist with major equipment maintenance as needed.

  • Perform daily pre-checks of snow cat and grooming equipment prior to operating.

  • Complete all daily operational reports pertaining to grooming conditions, assignments, and projects.

  • Operate two-way radios and other communication equipment.

  • Support all department and company policies and procedures, mission, vision, and value.

  • Other: Perform additional tasks as requested by the General Manager and other Manager Team members.

Physical demands and work environment

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit and operate heavy machinery for extended periods of time.

  • Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, and grip.

  • The employee frequently is required to talk, hear, reach with hands and arms, walk and stand, operate tools and equipment, and carry personal supplies.

  • The employee may regularly lift up to 75 pounds alone and may occasionally lift up to 100 pounds with assistance.

  • Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perceptions, and the ability to adjust focus.

  • A vision of 20 feet or more and depth perception is necessary.

  • The employee may be exposed to working near moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles and regular exposure to inclement weather and mountain environmental conditions for extended periods of time.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Minimum 5 years experience

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED), or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Willing to complete a background check.

  • Ability to deal w/ problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. Communication skills, including basic writing ability, and clarity in radio usage.

  • Experience operating heavy equipment and snow grooming equipment preferred.

  • Must be comfortable with the changing dynamics of a seasonal business.

Employee Benefits:

  • Employee season pass (free access to all activities and skiing/snowboarding on the mountain)

  • Food and Beverage discounts, Retail/Rental discounts, free equipment rentals

  • Reciprocal ski benefits and over 40 resorts across the US

  • Online Pro Deals

  • Discounted tickets for family and friends