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Snow Grooming Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

To maintain proper and efficient levels of snow throughout the entire lift station area. To ... Maintains a professional appearance & adheres to all grooming guidelines to include a nametag

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 ...

Snow Surface - Snow Making Manager Company Overview Wasatch Peaks Ranch is developing and building ... Grooming experience is helpful or willing to learn. * High School diploma or GED required. * Driver ...

Snow Surface - Snow Making Manager Company Overview Wasatch Peaks Ranch is developing and building ... Grooming experience is helpful or willing to learn. * High School diploma or GED required. * Driver ...

This is a working/operating foreman position with support and operating responsibilities in ... dump-trucks, snow/dirt moving and grooming equipment, and more * Operates heavy equipment as ...

The Terrain Park Manager leads and schedules the terrain park crew, coordinates with grooming and ... Need experienced terrain park operators. With 5+ years of terrain park, snowcat experience

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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.
More about Snow Grooming Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Snow Grooming Operator jobs? Cities with the most Snow Grooming Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Snow Grooming Operator jobs? The top employers for Snow Grooming Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Snow Grooming Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Snow Grooming Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Snow Grooming Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Snow Grooming Operator jobs are:
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.
Winter 26/27: Lift Operator

Winter 26/27: Lift Operator

Powdr

Frisco, CO

$17.50 - $19.10/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Location: Frisco, Colorado

Copper Mountain Resort is a vacation destination located 75 miles west of Denver, Colorado in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Three vibrant, pedestrian-friendly village areas host lodging, retail outlets, restaurants, bars, and family activities. During the winter months, Copper's world-class terrain offers skiing and riding for all ages and abilities. Each summer, the mountain transforms into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone seeking a genuine Colorado experience. Copper Mountain Resort is also home to Woodward Copper action-sports camps, programs, and training facility.

Job Title: Lift Operator

Job Status: Seasonal

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Compensation: Proposed hiring rate of $17.50 to $19.10+, actual pay will be adjusted based on experience.

  • Benefits: This is a seasonal position eligible for season pass for employees/dependents and privileges at several other resorts. Several discount programs (i.e. food & beverage, retail/rental, tickets, etc.) also available.

Job Summary:

To execute the proper, efficient, and courteous loading and unloading of our guests. To inspect, record, and report the condition of all lift machinery. To provide maximum ticket security by ensuring each boarding skier/snowboarder has a valid pass product. To maintain proper and efficient levels of snow throughout the entire lift station area. To understand and promote Copper's products and services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Inspection and safe operation of lifts, mountain coaster, tubing hill, and RFID gates

  • Execute opening procedures, daily operations and closing procedures for Lift Operations

  • Loading and unloading public

  • Knowledgeably and efficiently administer emergency procedures including lift breakdowns, evacuation, fire, and accident reporting. Communicate to guests, when appropriate, the status of a lift breakdown

  • Execute opening procedures, daily operations and closing procedures for Lift Access Operations (scanning tickets)

  • Provide an active and efficient flow of guests through the maze

  • Ensure ticket security by monitoring RFID gate access for validation of passes

  • Excellent ongoing guest service and extensive snow shoveling

  • To communicate and make quick decisions and be a source of knowledgeable information in dealing with guest needs or questions as they arise

Other Duties as Assigned:

  • This job description is an overview of the scope of responsibilities for this job and is not intended to be an inclusive list of job tasks and expectations. With the evolution of POWDR-Copper, the responsibilities of this position may change. The job must be prepared to accept new responsibilities and transfer others

  • Functions as an ambassador of Copper Mountain, modeling and sharing the Copper "culture" with our guests and employees. Upholds the most professional image. Continually strives to exceed our guest's expectations and create memories for our guests and staff

  • This position is a seasonal position and may have fluctuations in hours worked based upon overall business volumes

Personal Attributes:

  • Is honest and has the highest integrity

  • Ability to show empathy

  • Is able to handle and manage confidential information

  • Maintains a professional appearance & adheres to all grooming guidelines to include a nametag

  • Follows established policies and procedures

  • Is supportive of Core Values

  • Sets the example for others and is above reproach

  • Has a friendly and outgoing demeanor

  • Is organized in tasks, and sees projects through to their finish

  • Has good follow-through and makes it a habit of getting back to people on issues

  • Can handle fast paced, potentially high-pressure environment

  • Is flexible with hours and days of work and is punctual. Expectations of no conflicts with attendance

  • Is able to work any hours of the day, any days of the week (October - May)

  • Is able to work through the end of the season

  • Prioritizes and re-prioritizes personal time and work, to have good balance in life

  • Hours of operations vary between (4:00am-12:00am / mornings, day, and night shifts available)

Basic Requirements:

  • Must be able to lift and carry items up to 50 lbs. and be able to assist picking up fallen skiers

  • Must be willing to work 5 days/week, weekends and holidays included

  • Must be willing to work as early as 4:00AM and as late as mid-night while ensuring excellent service standards with our guests

  • Must be able to meet Copper's grooming standards

  • Must have previous customer/guest relations experience

  • Must desire an outdoor job that requires manual labor

  • Must have the ability to stand outside for long periods of time in cold temperatures, the ability to shovel snow throughout the work day

  • Must follow strict safety guidelines in the operation of lift machinery

  • Must be fluent in English and be able to read and write in English

  • Must complete the required training class and pass a written test

  • Must be 18 years or older

  • Must be able to recognize and respond to audible signals (i.e. telephones, beeper system and guest questions)

  • Must be able to visually and audibly inspect terminals, motor rooms and line equipment

  • This position may require the use of a mountain radio/walkie-talkies for communication

Preferred Experience and Special Skills:

  • Intermediate skiing or riding ability

  • Owns equipment (skis/snowboard, boots, helmet, goggles)

This position will be posted and accepting applications until Wednesday, July 1st

POWDR-Copper Mountain, LLC is an equal opportunity employer and that race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability/protected veterans or any other applicable status protected by state or local law, are not taken into account in any employment decision. We offer competitive benefits, employee housing, and a unique work atmosphere. All of our job opportunities are located at Copper Mountain Resort in Summit County, Colorado. 90 miles west of Denver, we are situated in the heart of Colorado's playground. All candidates must fill out an application to be considered for employment.

Can you see yourself here- Apply now!


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About Powdr

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Amusement, gambling, and recreation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Park City, UT, US

Year founded

1993