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Snow Groomer Jobs in Rutland, VT (NOW HIRING)

KILLINGTON PICO SKI RESORT

Patrol Manager

Killington, VT · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Manage year-round mountain safety and operational readiness through trail and terrain evaluations, inspection of grooming, snowmaking, and trail maintenance activities, oversight of snow safety ...

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Snow Groomer information

See Rutland, VT salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do snow groomer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for snow groomer in Rutland, VT is $19.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $22.60 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 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 is a snow groomer?

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.

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.

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 Rutland, VT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,171 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Winter 26/27: Grooming Operator

KILLINGTON PICO SKI RESORT

Killington, VT • On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Compensation: Hourly wage, adjusted based on experience.
  • Benefits: Seasonal position eligible for a season pass for employee/dependents and privileges at several other resorts. Several discount programs (i.e. food & beverage, retail/rental, tickets, etc.) also available.

Job Summary:
Grooming 1 Operators play a critical role in the overall guest experience by keeping trails well maintained and improving the quality of the snow surface. Entry level Grooming Operators are responsible for preparing and maintaining the snow surface on beginner and intermediate ski trails using specialized snow grooming equipment on a variety of terrain. This position requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a focus on safety.
Summary of Key Responsibilities:
Responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:
  • Inspect equipment at the start and finish of each shift to ensure it is in proper working order to minimize equipment downtime
  • Groom ski trails in designated areas under the Supervision of Shift Supervisor and Hill Chiefs
  • Ability to learn how to operate Snow Grooming Equipment and develop general mountain knowledge
  • Perform regular equipment maintenance tasks. Check fluid levels, bolts, belts, crossbars, track tension, etc.
  • Assist with minor equipment repairs
  • Prepare daily driver's logs and reports on grooming activities, ensuring accuracy and completeness
  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures
  • Maintain good working relationships and communicate work instructions with co-workers
  • Change equipment implements as necessary during the shift
  • Learn to navigate the mountain unassisted
  • Communicate any mechanical problems to Vehicle Maintenance Department via work requests
  • Provide superior service to our customers (internal and external) at all times
  • Follow Resort Etiquette Guidelines while interacting with guests and other employees
  • Perform other tasks as assigned

Basic Qualifications:
  • High school education or equivalent
  • Valid US driver's license
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Ability to sit for extended periods of time while operating snow grooming equipment
  • Willing to work overnight shifts

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Previous experience operating heavy equipment preferred but not required. We will train the right candidate
  • Must have the ability to operate equipment
  • Good communication skills via two-way radio required

It is the policy of Killington/Pico Ski Resort Partners, LLC to provide equal opportunity and employment to all staff and applicants. No person shall be discriminated against in any condition of employment because of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, place of birth, age, physical or mental condition, or any qualified individual with a disability or veteran status.
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