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Snow Groomer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hilltop Ski Area

Snow Groomer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20/hr

In order to choose the proper groomer settings, the driver also needs to have a solid awareness of snow conditions and the ability to predict changing weather. To guarantee that the trails are kept ...

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BIG SNOW AMERICAN DREAM

Big Groomer

East Rutherford, NJ · On-site

$19.50 - $21.50/hr

Big SNOW- Groomer Location: East Rutherford, NJ SNOW Partners Mission Statement: "To Enhance the Lives of our Team, Guests and Partners by Building Lasting Connections." About Big SNOW: Big SNOW is ...

Crystal

Groomer II - Winter 26/27

Enumclaw, WA

Snow SurfacesManager, Grooming Shift Supervisor, Grooming Shift Lead Location: Crystal Mountain, WA Wage Range: 26.00-28.00/hour D.O.E. RESORT OVERVIEW, CULTURE AND VISION Crystal Mountain is the ...

Powdr

Winter 26/27: Terrain Park Groomer Level 1

Frisco, CO · On-site

$20.50 - $22.80/hr

Performs utility-oriented tasks-i.e.starting snow cat and preparing for operators * Front line grooming basics * Creates a finished product that is ready to ride * Understands fleet grooming and ...

Brundage Mountain Company

Groomer

Mccall, ID · On-site

In the grooming department, you will be part of the team operating snow cats at night safely and efficiently. We strive for a top quality and safe snow surface that exceeds our guests' expectations.

BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT LLC

Groomer

Mccall, ID

In the grooming department, you will be part of the team operating snow cats at night safely and efficiently. We strive for a top quality and safe snow surface that exceeds our guests' expectations.

Powdr

Terrain Parks Grooming Supervisor

Bend, OR · On-site

Must be able to perform all job duties in any type of snow. * Responsible for all promotional ... Understand general grooming machine maintenance (oil, hydro fluid, coolant, tracks, belts, fuses ...

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All JobsSnow Groomer Jobs

Snow Groomer information

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$9

$18

$27

How much do snow groomer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for snow groomer in the United States is $18.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Snow Groomer Do?

A snow groomer works at a private or public park, mountain resort, or another recreational site that has a dedicated trail system for winter activities. In this role, your duties include maintenance of cross-skiing trails or downhill slopes. You use heavy equipment to move snow and create pre-formed tracks. You also take care of snowmobile tracks to ensure the proper signage is present. You identify potential hazards and close portions as necessary. Duties often extend to keeping walkways open on other property grounds. The work is seasonal with some employees opting to stay on during the off-season and take on landscaping or groundskeeping responsibilities.

What are snow groomers called?

Snow groomers are specialized vehicles used to maintain ski slopes and snow-covered trails. They are commonly called snowcats or grooming machines and are operated by trained personnel to ensure safe and smooth surfaces for winter recreation.

How much do snow groomers get paid?

Snow groomers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and employer, and the job often requires operating specialized equipment and working in outdoor winter conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Snow Groomer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snow Groomer, you need experience in heavy equipment operation, a valid driver’s license, and basic mechanical knowledge, often acquired through on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with grooming machines like PistenBully or Prinoth, GPS systems, and snow management tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to work independently and in challenging weather conditions are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient preparation of ski slopes, contributing to guest safety and resort operations.

What are snow groomers?

Snow groomers are skilled operators who use specialized vehicles, called snowcats, to maintain and prepare ski slopes, cross-country trails, and snowmobile paths. Their main job is to smooth, compact, and reshape snow to ensure safe and enjoyable conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. Snow groomers often work at night or early in the morning, navigating challenging weather and terrain to deliver high-quality snow surfaces. The role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and a good understanding of snow behavior.

Do you need a CDL to drive a snow cat?

Snow groomer operators typically do not need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate snow grooming equipment, as these machines are often classified as specialized or non-commercial vehicles. However, some employers or regions may require a CDL or specific certifications, and operators should have training in equipment operation and safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by snow groomers, and how are they addressed on the job?

Snow groomers often work in challenging weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, low visibility, and extreme cold, which can make equipment operation more difficult. Navigating steep slopes and ensuring consistent snow quality across the ski resort requires attention to detail and strong technical skills. To address these challenges, snow groomers typically receive thorough training on machinery and safety protocols, and they work closely with other grooming team members and mountain operations staff to coordinate efforts and communicate about changing conditions.

How do you become a snow groomer?

To become a snow groomer, individuals typically need a valid driver's license and experience operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers or loaders. Many employers require completion of specialized training or certification in snow grooming equipment, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding nature of the work and outdoor environment.

What is the difference between Snow Groomer vs Snowcat Operator?

AspectSnow GroomerSnowcat Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly specialized snow grooming certificationsDriver's license, snowcat operation training
Work EnvironmentSnow-covered terrains, ski resorts, mountain areasSnow-covered terrains, ski resorts, mountain areas
Industry UsageCommonly used term for snow grooming machines and their operatorsOften used interchangeably with Snow Groomer, but can imply the operator of a snowcat

Both roles involve operating snow grooming machines in winter resort environments. The term "Snow Groomer" is more commonly used to describe the equipment and its operator, while "Snowcat Operator" emphasizes the operator's role. In practice, they often refer to the same job, with slight variations in terminology depending on the employer or region.

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Snow Groomer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snow Groomer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,438 per year, or $19 per hour.

Snow Groomer/Winch Cat Operator

SNOW KING MOUNTAIN RESORT LLC

Jackson, WY

Other

Posted 25 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

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