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Snow Grooming Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hilltop Ski Area

Snow Groomer

Anchorage, AK

$20/hr

... snow conditions. Effective operation of a ski path groomer requires a certain skill level. The ... grooming equipment safely and efficiently. · Prior experience operating a snowcat or heavy ...

BIG SNOW AMERICAN DREAM

Big Groomer

East Rutherford, NJ · On-site

$19.50 - $21.50/hr

Learn company and industry grooming practices for slope and terrain parks as directed: grooming theory and techniques, changing snow, operating techniques and working around building features, lifts ...

Alterra

Snowcat Operator, Winter 26-27

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$20.70 - $29.51/hr

Operator must be able to complete PistenBully Pro-Academy; Entry- Level Snow Grooming. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with ...

Pae

Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$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 · On-site

$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 ...

Powdr

Terrain Parks Grooming Supervisor

Bend, OR

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 ...

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, 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

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 ...

POWDR Corp.

Terrain Parks Grooming Supervisor

Bend, OR · On-site

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 ...

Pae

TDY Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

All Heavy Equipment Operators: * Implements andmaintainsa safe workplace program and ensures that ... Snow grooming, moving experience. * Prior experience working in austere environments. * Prior ...

Amentum

TDY Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

All Heavy Equipment Operators: * Implements and maintains a safe workplace program and ensures that ... Snow grooming, moving experience. * Prior experience working in austere environments. * Prior ...

State of New Hampshire

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 ...

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Snow Grooming Operator information

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How much do snow grooming operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for snow grooming 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 are some common challenges faced by Snow Grooming Operators during peak winter season?

Snow Grooming Operators often encounter challenges such as working long or overnight shifts in harsh weather conditions to ensure trails and slopes are ready for guests by morning. Rapidly changing weather can require frequent adjustments to grooming plans, and operators must be vigilant to avoid obstacles and maintain safety. Additionally, collaborating with ski patrol and maintenance teams is essential for responding quickly to on-mountain issues, ensuring a smooth and safe skiing experience for everyone.

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

AspectSnow Grooming OperatorSnowcat Driver
CertificationsOften requires snow grooming or machinery operation certificationsRequires snowcat operation licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates grooming equipment on ski slopes or resortsDrives snowcats in ski areas, resorts, or snow-covered terrains
Industry UsageCommonly used in ski resorts, winter recreation areasUsed in similar settings, often interchangeable in job listings

Both Snow Grooming Operators and Snowcat Drivers work in ski resorts or winter recreation areas, operating snow grooming equipment to maintain ski slopes. The roles often overlap, with the main difference being job titles used by employers. Certifications and work environments are similar, making these roles closely related in the winter sports industry.

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

To thrive as a Snow Grooming Operator, you need experience with heavy machinery operation, knowledge of snow maintenance techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming equipment such as snowcats, GPS systems, and basic mechanical tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work independently at night set top operators apart. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and high-quality preparation of ski slopes for guests, directly impacting their safety and enjoyment.

What are Snow Grooming Operators?

Snow Grooming Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating specialized machinery, such as snowcats or groomers, to maintain and prepare ski slopes, trails, and other snow-covered areas. They ensure that the snow surface is smooth, safe, and enjoyable for skiers and snowboarders by leveling, compacting, and redistributing the snow. Their work is essential for resort operations, especially during the ski season, and often takes place at night or early in the morning. Operators must be familiar with the equipment, safety protocols, and varying snow conditions to perform their duties effectively.
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Snow Grooming Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snow Grooming Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person 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 19 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