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Snow Groomer Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

$17.81 - $23.39/hr

Education and experience must be in operating and maintaining snow and trail conditioning equipment, including snow-grooming tractors, bulldozers, front end loaders, ATV's and other types of heavy ...

Must be an expert operator of all Prinoth and Pistenbully machines. * Must be proficient in all ... Must be able to perform all job duties in any type of snow. * Responsible for all promotional ...

The Groomer /SnowCat Operator will operate SnowCat equipment, perform trail grooming and other ... Grade and groom trails * Assist snow-making with moving equipment * Other tasks maybe assigned by ...

An understanding of snow composition and the ability to discuss information are crucial. Prior ... being operated or worked around. Interpersonal Contacts Daily contact with the Mt. operations ...

Prior snow moving and grooming experience. * Familiarity with Microsoft Office. * Experienced in operating a commercial vehicle in compliance with all DOT regulations. * Class A CDL preferred * Prior ...

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Train customers in repairing, servicing, or operating their new or used PistenBully. Attend trade ... PistenBully snow groomers, PowerBully track carriers, and BeachTech beach cleaning machines.

... snow/dirt moving and grooming equipment, etc. * Operates heavy equipment as required, including but not limited to the following activities in both dirt and snow: Road grading, ditch cleaning, trench ...

... snow/dirt moving and grooming equipment, etc, * Operates heavy equipment as required, including but not limited to the following activities in both dirt and snow: Road grading, ditch cleaning, trench ...

This role involves working four, 10-hour graveyard shifts per week , with responsibilities that include operating slope-grooming and snow-removal equipment, as well as organizing and assigning tasks ...

Terrain Park Manager

Ludlow, VT · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Lead overall financial management of the Terrain Parks department, including labor and operating ... Snow grooming operations experience * Snowmobile operation experience The expected pay range is $50 ...

Maintain a clear level snow surface on loading and unloading ramps. * Monitor the operation of the ... grooming standards, etc. * Give verbal instructions to customers on how to load and unload the ...

Lead overall financial management of the Terrain Parks department, including labor and operating ... Snow grooming operations experience * Snowmobile operation experience The expected pay range is $50 ...

This role involves working four, 10-hour graveyard shifts per week , with responsibilities that include operating slope-grooming and snow-removal equipment, as well as organizing and assigning tasks ...

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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.
More about Snow Groomer Operator jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Snow Groomer Operator jobs? The top employers for Snow Groomer Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Snow Groomer Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Snow Groomer Operator jobs include:
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.
EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

State of New Hampshire

Portsmouth, NH • On-site

$17.81 - $23.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


State Of New Hampshire rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 50 rated states


Job description

Stateof New Hampshire Job Posting
Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services
Pease Air National Guard Base
Portsmouth, NH
EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
Position#19343
$17.81/hour - $23.39/hour
40 Hour Basic Work Week
This position offers a Trainee Status* at the following pay rate: $17.19/hour.
*See total compensation information at the bottom of announcement.
The State of New Hampshire, Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services has a full-time vacancy for Equipment Operator.
Summary:
Operates, maintains, and repairs a variety of light and heavy equipment used in performing roads and grounds maintenance tasks and snow removal operations at the Pease Air National Guard Base.
YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS: Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience and/or each additional year of approved work experience may be substituted for one year of required formal education.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education/Experience: Equivalent combination of 2 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in operating and maintaining snow and trail conditioning equipment, including snow-grooming tractors, bulldozers, front end loaders, ATV's and other types of heavy equipment.
License/Certification: Valid driver's license
Other Requirements:
1. Must be able to satisfactorily undergo a State Police records check
2. Must be in good physical condition and have sufficient strength to do heavy lifting
3. Must report to job site or be on standby during emergency situations, such as snow, inclement weather or building emergencies, as this position is designated as "Essential Personnel". Overtime in support of snow removal operations is mandatory
Trainee Option: Candidates with an equivalent combination of 1+ year of relevant education and experience after completion of high school or equivalent may be considered and hired in 'Trainee Status' for this position.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in operating heavy equipment, working knowledge and repair of diesel powered equipment, and possession of a Class A or B commercial driver's license.
AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS:
Must be able to pass a National Agency Check (NAC) in order to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC) used in the performance of assigned work duties within 12 months of hire and be eligible for renewal as a condition of employment.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
In-Band Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No
Broad Group Level Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No
DISCLAIMERS:
The supplemental job description lists the essential functions of the position and is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. An employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed on the supplemental job description provided that such duties are characteristic of that job title.
The work of an employee in trainee status in this position shall be overseen by a fully qualified individual. An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time specified on the SJD, not to exceed one year of being hired into this position.
Responsibilities:
Operates complex equipment and attachments, such as but not limited to, Oshkosh with rollover plow or blower, Oshkosh snow blowers, Timco sweeper, 20-foot snow pushers and brooms, loaders, and sanders, involved in snow and ice removal operations from pavement on airfield, roads and parking lots.
Performs specialized mechanical maintenance and repairs of assigned equipment and attachments which includes but is not limited to mounting and removing plows, chains, plow shoes, and cutting blades.
Operates light duty equipment such as snow blowers, shovels, saws, mowers, trimmers, and rakes while performing grounds maintenance tasks to include removing snow from walkways and sidewalks, chipping brush and cutting/trimming trees around 219 acres of fence line, and mowing and raking 260 acre lawns.
Performs hands-on training of all equipment used in snow removal operations with new personnel assigned to snow removal, and provides refresher training for experience personnel as needed.
Assists and participates in construction projects to include sealing and patching road surfaces, maintaining and repairing concrete and asphalt pavement, cleaning catch basins, and removing debris basewide.
Works with in-house personnel or contractors in emergency repairs of the base underground utility systems. Operating dump trucks, backhoes and excavators to find, expose, repair and return worksite back to pre-repair condition. Repairs may require heavy physical labor.
Performs pre-trip vehicle inspections and safety checks prior to equipment use and services/cleans equipment after use and as needed.
For further information please contact Cheri Fitzgerald, Human Resources: cheri.r.fitzgerald@dmavs.nh.gov or 603-227-1527.
*TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION
The State of NH total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits, including:
HMO or POS Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits:
The actual value of State-paid health benefits and the amount of employee health benefit contributions may vary depending on the type of plan selected and the bargaining unit with which a position is associated.
See this link for details on State-paid health benefits:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/benefits.aspx
Value of State's share of Employee's Retirement: 12.87% of pay
Other Benefits:
*Dental Plan at minimal cost for employees and their families ($500-$1800 value)
* Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
*State defined benefit retirement plan and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
*Work/life balance flexible schedules, paid holidays and generous leave plan
*$50,000 state-paid life insurance plus additional low-cost group life insurance
*Incentive-based Wellness Program (ability to earn up to $500)
Total Compensation Statement Worksheet:
https://www.das.nh.gov/jobsearch/compensation-calculator.aspx
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/documents/BenefitBrochure.pdf
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/index.aspx
EOE
TDD Access: Relay NH1-800-735-2964

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