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Snowcat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 snowcat equipment to maintain high-quality ski and snowboard surfaces across the mountain. This role ...

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 snowcat equipment to maintain high-quality ski and snowboard surfaces across the mountain. This role ...

Brundage Mountain Company

Groomer

Mccall, ID · On-site

Safe operation of a Pisten Bully 400 snowcat including: * Daily checkout and inspection of machines. * Correct start-up and shutdown procedures. * Tiller and Blade operation. * Efficient operating ...

BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT LLC

Groomer

Mccall, ID

Safe operation of a Pisten Bully 400 snowcat including: * Daily checkout and inspection of machines. * Correct start-up and shutdown procedures. * Tiller and Blade operation. * Efficient operating ...

Brundage Mountain Company

Groomer

Mccall, ID · On-site

Safe operation of a Pisten Bully 400 snowcat including: * Daily checkout and inspection of machines. * Correct start-up and shutdown procedures. * Tiller and Blade operation. * Efficient operating ...

Hilltop Ski Area

Snow Groomer

Anchorage, AK

$20/hr

... operating a snowcat or heavy equipment is a plus. · Knowledge of applicable safety standards and regulations. · Ability to communicate effectively with other staff, volunteers, and visitors. · ...

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Winter Park, CO · On-site

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Arvada, CO · On-site

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

New

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Morrison, CO · On-site

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

New

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Black Hawk, CO · On-site

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

New

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Grant, CO · On-site

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Jamestown, CO · On-site

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

New

Clear Creek County, Colorado

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

New

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Dumont, CO

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

Clear Creek County, Colorado

PARAMEDIC

Evergreen, CO · On-site

Responds via alternate response vehicles/methods, including hiking, snowmobile, UTV, snowcat, etc ... Operating Guidelines. * Work to promote a team-oriented environment with all members and other ...

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How much do snowcat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for snowcat operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Snowcat Operator job?

A Snowcat Operator is responsible for operating specialized grooming machines, known as snowcats, to maintain ski slopes, trails, and other snow-covered areas. They work primarily at ski resorts, ensuring the terrain remains smooth and safe for skiers and snowboarders. Duties include grooming snow, moving snow for terrain park features, and performing basic equipment maintenance. This job requires operating heavy machinery in varying weather conditions, often at night or early morning hours. Experience with snowcats, mechanical knowledge, and strong attention to safety are essential for this role.

What does a typical shift look like for a Snowcat Operator, and what working conditions should I expect?

A typical shift for a Snowcat Operator often begins in the late afternoon or evening, as grooming is primarily done when slopes are closed to the public, and may last 8 to 12 hours, depending on snowfall and terrain. You’ll work in varied weather conditions, including extreme cold, low visibility, and at high altitudes, mostly operating machinery alone but staying in close radio contact with supervisors and other operators. While much of your time is spent driving the snowcat to groom trails, the role also includes routine equipment checks, minor maintenance, and collaborating with ski patrol or maintenance teams. These factors combine to make the job both challenging and rewarding for those who enjoy independent work in mountain environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Snowcat Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snowcat Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery, basic mechanical aptitude, and a valid driver's license, with many employers preferring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with snow grooming equipment, hydraulic systems, and GPS or onboard navigation/controls is often required, and some resorts may require safety or equipment-specific certifications. Strong situational awareness, adaptability to changing weather conditions, and effective communication are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure both the safety and effectiveness of snow grooming operations, contributing to optimal trail conditions and seamless collaboration with mountain teams.

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Snowcat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snowcat Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 1% Physical, 23% Hybrid, and 76% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Snowcat Operator

Mt Baker Ski Area

Deming, WA • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description:

Position Summary

The Snowcat Operator is responsible for the safe and effective operation of snowcat equipment to maintain high-quality ski and snowboard surfaces across the mountain. This role requires advanced equipment operation skills, strong situational awareness, and the ability to work independently in dynamic weather and snow conditions typical of the Pacific Northwest.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Snowcat & Equipment Operation

  • Operate Pistonbully snowcats and grooming equipment safely and efficiently on varied terrain, including beginner through expert runs
  • Perform snow grooming, tilling, and surface preparation to established mountain standards
  • Operate equipment safely and reliably across varied terrain and on a flexible schedule, which includes overnight, swing, and split shifts.

Safety & Communication

  • Maintain constant situational awareness of terrain hazards, weather conditions, and other on-hill operations
  • Communicate effectively with grooming team members, supervisors, patrol, and lift operations
  • Follow all mountain safety protocols, equipment procedures, and radio communication standards
  • Follow safety guidelines as described in the Accident Prevention Plan and as trained.
  • Report safety concerns directly to the department manager, Director of Mountain Operations, and General Manager as trained.
  • Actively participate in fostering a positive safety culture through words and actions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Equipment Care & Maintenance

  • Conduct pre- and post-shift inspections of snowcats and related equipment
  • Perform basic troubleshooting and preventative maintenance as trained
  • Accurately document equipment usage, issues, and completed work
  • Maintain clean, organized, and fuel-ready equipment at the end of each shift

Scheduling Requirements:

  • Position start date: November 2026
  • This position requires a schedule that includes early mornings, overnight shifts, and scheduled split shifts. Hours will vary based on operational needs, and schedules may change over the course of the season.

Starting Wage & Benefits:

  • $23/hr and up, DOE
  • Employee skiing/snowboarding privileges
  • Medical, Vision, Dental eligible after eligibility period is met
  • Mt. Baker Profit Sharing/401k after eligibility is met
  • Retail and Food Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program


Requirements:

Qualifications & Experience

Required

  • Proven ability to operate snowcats in low visibility, steep terrain, and variable snow conditions
  • Valid driver’s license without limitation on nighttime driving
  • Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in early-morning and remote conditions

Preferred

  • Minimum 2+ seasons of snowcat or heavy equipment operation experience in a mountain environment
  • Experience grooming in high snowfall, wet snow, and mixed precipitation environments
  • Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with snowcat maintenance
  • Previous experience at a ski area in the Pacific Northwest or similar climate

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

  • Ability to work variable-hour shifts, including very early mornings, in cold, wet, and inclement winter weather
  • Ability to maintain clear vision and depth perception in low-light and flat-light conditions, including during snowfall, fog, or reduced visibility, with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Prolonged sitting, repetitive hand and foot movements, and sustained focus
  • Ability to climb in and out of equipment multiple times per shift
  • Exposure to noise, vibration, and low-light conditions
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally

Core Competencies

  • Safety-focused and detail-oriented
  • Strong terrain awareness and judgment
  • Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated
  • Team-oriented with clear communication skills
  • Adaptable to changing conditions and operational priorities