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Snow Groomer Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hilltop Ski Area

Snow Groomer

Anchorage, AK

$20/hr

... grooming and snow conditions. Effective operation of a ski path groomer requires a certain skill ... operating instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals, as well as record data ...

Nashoba Valley Ski Area

Mechanic

Westford, MA

$20 - $35/hr

Possibly operating a snow groomer Requirements: * Mechanical skills - Looking for Junior, Mid-Level and Experienced Mechanics. * Experience operating heavy equipment, similar to bull dozer, excavator ...

Nashoba Valley Ski Area

Mechanic

Westford, MA

$20 - $35/hr

Possibly operating a snow groomer Requirements: * Mechanical skills - Looking for Junior, Mid-Level and Experienced Mechanics. * Experience operating heavy equipment, similar to bull dozer, excavator ...

Marquette Mountain

Snow Surfaces Manager

Marquette, MI · On-site

$24/hr

Responsible for leading the development, the grooming, the snowmaking, the terrain park, teams ... standard operating procedures * Maintain accurate up-to-date logs on equipment used * Report and ...

BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT LLC

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 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.

Pae

Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Reads and understands the manufacturer's operating manual for each piece of equipment before ... Movement, stockpiling, and loading of aggregate, snow plowing, snow removal, snow grooming, loading ...

Amentum Services, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Reads and understands the manufacturer's operating manual for each piece of equipment before ... Movement, stockpiling, and loading of aggregate, snow plowing, snow removal, snow grooming, loading ...

Mt. Baker Ski Area, Inc.

Snowcat Operator

Glacier, WA

$23/hr

Description Position Summary The Snowcat Operator is responsible for the safe and effective ... Perform snow grooming, tilling, and surface preparation to established mountain standards * Operate ...

Mt Baker Ski Area

Snowcat Operator

Deming, WA · On-site

$23/hr

Position Summary The Snowcat Operator is responsible for the safe and effective operation of ... Perform snow grooming, tilling, and surface preparation to established mountain standards * Operate ...

Mt. Baker Ski Area

Snowcat Operator

WA · On-site

$23/hr

Position Summary The Snowcat Operator is responsible for the safe and effective operation of ... Perform snow grooming, tilling, and surface preparation to established mountain standards * Operate ...

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Snow Groomer Operator information

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How much do snow groomer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for snow groomer operator 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 snowcat operator make?

A snowcat operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can also include benefits such as lodging or seasonal bonuses, especially at ski resorts or mountain resorts. Compensation may increase with certifications and years of experience in snow grooming and equipment operation.

What are some common challenges faced by Snow Groomer Operators during peak season, and how are they addressed?

During peak ski season, Snow Groomer Operators often face demanding schedules, rapidly changing weather conditions, and the need to work overnight to ensure slopes are ready for guests by morning. Navigating low visibility and icy terrain can be challenging, requiring strong attention to safety and equipment maintenance. Communication with other team members and mountain operations staff is essential to coordinate grooming priorities and respond to unexpected issues. Operators typically rely on training, detailed shift handovers, and support from supervisors to manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Snow Groomer Operator vs Snowcat Driver?

AspectSnow Groomer OperatorSnowcat Driver
CertificationsOperator licenses, safety trainingOperator licenses, safety training
Work EnvironmentResorts, ski areas, snow parksResorts, ski areas, snow parks
Job DutiesOperating snow grooming machines to prepare trailsDriving snowcats for trail maintenance and transportation

Both roles involve operating snow grooming machinery in similar environments, requiring comparable certifications. The main difference is that Snow Groomer Operators focus on trail grooming and snow preparation, while Snowcat Drivers may have broader responsibilities including transportation and general machine operation. These roles are often used interchangeably but can vary by employer.

How do you become a snow groomer operator?

To become a snow groomer operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and training on operating snow grooming machines, which may be provided by employers or through specialized courses. Experience with heavy equipment, good mechanical skills, and safety certifications are often required, along with the ability to work in outdoor winter conditions and operate machinery for extended periods.

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

To thrive as a Snow Groomer Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with heavy equipment operation, and a valid driver's license, often supported by specialized training. Familiarity with grooming vehicles like snowcats, GPS-based terrain management systems, and routine maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient work. These competencies ensure that ski slopes and trails are properly maintained for safety and optimal guest experience.

What is the highest paying job at a ski resort?

At a ski resort, the highest paying jobs often include resort managers, general managers, or executive positions such as director of operations, which can earn six-figure salaries. Specialized roles like ski patrol supervisors or head lift operators may also have higher pay, especially with experience and certifications, but executive and management roles typically top the pay scale.

What are snow groomer operators?

Snow groomer operators are skilled professionals who operate specialized machinery to maintain and prepare ski slopes, trails, and other snow-covered surfaces. They use snow grooming vehicles, commonly known as snowcats, to smooth, compact, and reshape snow for optimal skiing and snowboarding conditions. Their work is essential to ensure both the safety and enjoyment of winter sports enthusiasts. Operators typically work during nighttime or early morning hours to prepare the slopes before they open to the public. The role requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and knowledge of the terrain.

How much do ski mountain groomers make?

Ski mountain groomers, or snow groomer operators, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Many operators work full-time during the winter season and may require certification or training in equipment operation and safety protocols.
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Snow Groomer Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snow Groomer Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote 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 2 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

Apply