ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Snowcat Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Powdr

Groomer / Cat Driver Level 2

Truckee, CA · On-site

$25/hr

The Groomer /SnowCat Operator will operate SnowCat equipment, perform trail grooming and other ... A valid driver's license is required. * Physical Capabilities: bend, twist, push, pull, stand, lift ...

Alterra

Snowcat Mechanic

Mammoth Lakes, CA

$20.70 - $34.17/hr

Must have a valid Class C California Drivers License with less than 3 points. * High School graduate with auto shop or trade school experience. * Ability to deal with standardized situations, with ...

Mammoth Mountain

Snowcat Mechanic

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$20.70 - $34.17/hr

Must have a valid Class C California Drivers License with less than 3 points. * High School graduate with auto shop or trade school experience. * Ability to deal with standardized situations, with ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Kirkwood, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of ... Valid driver's license with no restrictions * Must be able to communicate fluently in English

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Truckee, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of ... Valid driver's license with no restrictions * Must be able to communicate fluently in English

Vail Resorts

Snow Cat Operator

Kirkwood, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to ... Valid driver's license with no restrictions * Experience working with and operating heavy machinery

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

Snow Cat Operator

Kirkwood, CA

$20 - $23/hr

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to ... Valid driver's license with no restrictions * Experience working with and operating heavy machinery

All JobsSnowcat Driver JobsSnowcat Driver Jobs in California

Snowcat Driver information

See California salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do snowcat driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for snowcat driver in California is $18.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Snowcat Driver vs Snowmobile Operator?

AspectSnowcat DriverSnowmobile Operator
Required CertificationsOften requires specialized vehicle operation licenses or certificationsTypically requires a snowmobile safety certification
Work EnvironmentOperates large tracked vehicles in ski resorts, snow parks, or remote areasOperates smaller snowmobiles in recreational or patrol settings
Industry UsageCommon in ski resorts, snow maintenance, and transportation servicesCommon in recreation, patrol, and guiding services

Snowcat Drivers and Snowmobile Operators both work in snowy environments, but Snowcat Drivers operate large tracked vehicles for snow grooming and transportation, often requiring specialized certifications. Snowmobile Operators typically handle smaller vehicles for recreation or patrol, with different certification needs. While their work environments overlap in snowy terrains, their roles and equipment differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a snowcat driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snowcat Driver, you need a valid driver's license, mechanical aptitude, and experience with heavy equipment operation, often gained through training or certification programs. Familiarity with GPS systems, radio communication devices, and snow grooming machinery is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently in harsh conditions help set top performers apart. These skills ensure safe and efficient snow grooming operations, which are critical for maintaining ski slopes and ensuring guest safety.

What are some common challenges a snowcat driver faces during a typical shift?

Snowcat Drivers often work in demanding weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, low visibility, and extreme cold. Navigating steep or icy terrain while maintaining safety for both themselves and others on the mountain can be challenging. Additionally, drivers must ensure their equipment is well-maintained and respond quickly to any mechanical issues. Effective communication with ski patrol, mountain operations, and other team members is essential for coordinating safe and efficient grooming of the slopes.

What is a snowcat driver?

Snowcat Drivers are specialized operators who drive snowcats—tracked vehicles designed to move over snow. They are mainly responsible for grooming ski slopes, maintaining trails, and transporting equipment or personnel in snowy environments. These drivers ensure that ski runs are safe and accessible by smoothing out snow and sometimes assisting with mountain operations. Snowcat Drivers typically work at ski resorts or in other mountainous regions that require regular snow management. The role requires strong driving skills, attention to safety, and often the ability to work overnight or in extreme weather conditions.
What are popular job titles related to Snowcat Driver jobs in California? For Snowcat Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Snowcat Driver jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Snowcat Driver jobs in California are:
Snowcat Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snowcat Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,484 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Groomer / Cat Driver Level 2

Powdr

Truckee, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Location:Soda Springs, California

Woodward Tahoe (Boreal and Soda Springs), located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountain range, is a year-round world-class action sports facility with a culture that comes straight from our main product: Fun. If this sounds like the kind of place you'd like to work, progress, and play, we'd love to hear from you!

The Groomer /SnowCat Operator will operate SnowCat equipment, perform trail grooming and other grooming tasks. The ideal candidate can successfully achieve tasks such as trail grading, grooming and other push projects.

What's in it for you?

  • Proposed hourly rate of $25.00 actual pay will be adjusted based on experience.
  • On-Site Employee Housing and Meals available.
  • A work culture based on fun and progression.
  • Full access to our world-class facilities. Work and play in the same innovative environments as professional and Olympic athletes.
  • Enough free time to enjoy the Woodward lifestyle.
  • Retail Discounts on Apparel and Equipment
  • Complimentary access to most POWDR owned resorts!

While every day is different and our roles may shift based on business needs, here is what you can expect to dive into in this role as a

Groomer /SnowCat Operator:

  • Performs daily equipment inspections at start of shift, completes log, and maintains equipment fluid levels.
  • Assists Lead Groomer in grooming ski runs to seamless corduroy using a combination of blade and tiller without unnecessary stress on the machine, as directed by the Lead Groomer.
  • Builds and maintains ski lift loading and unloading ramps as qualified and as directed by Lead Groomer.
  • Grade and groom trails
  • Assist snow-making with moving equipment
  • Other tasks maybe assigned by grooming manager

What We're Looking For

  • 3-5 grooming experience
  • Motivated and team oriented
  • Able to effectively communicate and follow grooming plans
  • Works in a detailed and methodical manner
  • A valid driver's license is required.
  • Physical Capabilities: bend, twist, push, pull, stand, lift 50lbs.
  • Must be comfortable working in an outdoor all-season environment.
  • Ability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and overnights.
  • Winch cat experience as a plus

You make us Woodward. We are a welcoming community that celebrates individual stories, backgrounds, experiences, and identities where we all have "different" in common. We believe in the strength of representing all voices and having space for everyone. We believe in pushing boundaries and bringing our authentic selves to work while embracing uniqueness, creativity, and different points of view. Even if you don't think you meet all the qualifications listed for a job, we'd love to hear from you.


If you need assistance with your application, please reach out to talentandculture@woodwardmountaincenters.com

Powdr logo

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

View All Powdr Jobs

Apply