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Snowcat Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Make snow according to all standard operating practices and safety procedures as instructedand ... Snowcat/Heavy equipment experience * Red Cross first Aid experience * Must be in good physical ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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Snowcat Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do snowcat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for snowcat operator in Colorado is $21.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do snowcat mechanics make?

Snowcat mechanics typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled mechanics with certifications and experience in maintaining heavy equipment may earn higher wages, especially in remote or high-demand areas where snowcat operation is essential.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Snowcat operators can earn around $4,000 per week in seasonal or specialized roles, especially with experience and overtime. High-paying jobs without a degree often include skilled trades, commercial driving, or certain construction roles, but these typically require specific skills, certifications, or licenses. Income varies based on location, experience, and industry demand.

How do you become a snowcat operator?

To become a snowcat operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience operating heavy machinery. Training is often provided on the job, and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) may be required depending on the equipment and location. Skills in machinery maintenance, safety procedures, and operating in winter conditions are also important.

Do you need a CDL to drive a snowcat?

Typically, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is not required to operate a snowcat, as they are often classified as specialized equipment rather than motor vehicles on public roads. However, some employers or regions may have specific licensing or certification requirements, especially for operating large or commercial snow removal machinery. It is important to check local regulations and employer policies for specific licensing needs.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Snowcat Operator jobs in Colorado? For Snowcat Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Snowcat Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Snowcat Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Snowcat Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Snowcat Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Snowcat Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,888 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Slope Heavy Equipment Operator - Summer 2026 Seasonal - Full Time

Slope Heavy Equipment Operator - Summer 2026 Seasonal - Full Time

Steamboat Ski Resort

Phippsburg, CO • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Seasonal
Steamboat- Ski Town, U.S.A. ® is known as the friendliest mountain destination on the planet, thanks to our western heritage and welcoming staff. We pride ourselves on hiring the best employees and providing the best experience in the industry. Our culture is supportive, challenging, passionate and committed and we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are looking for unique individuals who exemplify these qualities and care about each other, our mission, our environment, and our communities.
BESIDES WORKING SOMEWHERE AWESOME, WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
  • Free Alterra Mountain Pass for all eligible employees and eligible dependents for winter and summer, and a free IKON Pass to eligible employees*
  • Discounted skiing and riding for friends and family of eligible employees*
  • Vacation and Sick Time policies for eligible employees* to rest, relax and recharge
  • Generous discounts on outdoor gear, apparel, rental cars, etc.
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, short term & long-term disability insurance, EAP, HSAs, FSAs, and more for Year Round, Flex Year Round, & Season-to-Season Employees.
  • Apex-MEC (minimum essential coverage) plan available to all seasonal employees without an offer of major medical coverage. This plan helps cover preventive visits, urgent care visits, Free Telehealth, Limited Hospitalization, Prescription Drug Benefits and Free Multilingual Behavioral Health.
  • 401(k) plan with generous company match
  • Discounted tuition with partner online university for all Alterra Mountain Company employees to further their education
  • Paid parental leave of up to 6 weeks for eligible employees*
  • Free regional bus pass

*Click HERE for more information on our employee benefits!
For information on Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation’s Social Responsibility work including our Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion actions, please see our webpage at https://www.steamboat.com/doinggood .
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations.
POSITION SUMMARY
Remove snow from parking lot and roads by operating heavy equipment.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
  • Operate heavy equipment such as Front-end Loader, Dump truck, Skid Steer, and Snowcat to remove snow and keep parking lots and roads safe.
  • Inspect vehicles and equipment for safe and dependable operation.
  • Operate equipment in compliance with the Steamboat safety policies and procedure to avoid unnecessary collisions or unsafe practices
  • Connect hydraulic hoses, belts, mechanical linkage to machinery to raise, lower, tilt blades and scoops.
  • Although defined as full time, working hours will be dictated by weather events. When not snowing, position can either help in Vehicle shop or help operate snowcats; to be discussed with Manager.
  • Perform minor repairs on equipment when necessary to continue operations.
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 2 years of previous work history/education required
  • Valid Colorado driver’s license and have satisfactory driving record and meet company’s insurance carrier standards
  • CDL license preferred
  • Mechanical aptitude and understanding equipment limitations
  • Safety oriented
  • Knowledgeable about environmental issues

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 2 years’ experience as a heavy equipment operator
  • 1 year experience in snow removal
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record

The base hourly pay range below represents the low and high end of the Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation’s hourly pay range for this position. Actual pay will vary and may be above or below the range based on various factors including but not limited to experience, education, training, location, merit system, quantity or quality of production, responsibilities, and regular and/or necessary travel. The range listed is just one component of Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation’s total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include many region-specific benefits.
Steamboat Springs area base hourly pay range: $23.00 to 28.00 per hour
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be able to sit for up to 6 hours per shift as well as stand/walk for up to 4 hours per shift.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. frequently and occasionally heavier weights with assistance.
  • Must be able to bend, squat, climb, twist and reach above shoulder level occasionally.
  • Must be able to use hands for grasping, pushing/pulling and fine manipulation operation and repair of machinery.
  • Must be able to walk on uneven slick conditions in extreme weather conditions in both summer and winter
  • Must have good night vision for winter grooming

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, talk, see, hear, and operate a computer and other office productivity machinery.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Indoor/Outdoor: While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to harsh and varying outside weather conditions.
Hazardous Materials/Noise : The noise level in the workplace is usually moderate.
This job description is not an exhaustive list of all functions and responsibilities that an employee may be required to perform in this position . Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation and its affiliates reserve the right to modify, increase, decrease, suspend, and or eliminate any of the essential duties and/or the position in its entirety.
Application Deadline: Recruiting timelines vary by position, however, all Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation positions accept applications for a minimum of 4 days from the posting date listed above. This position is open and still accepting applications.
This job description is not an express or implied contract, guarantee, promise, or covenant of employment for any set term or duration, or for termination only for cause.
Employment with Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation or any of its affiliates is “at will” meaning either party may terminate the employment relationship at any time with or without cause and with or without notice.
This position is located in Colorado, and the work is primarily in Steamboat Springs, CO and, as such, employment in this position is subject to the labor and employment laws of the state of Colorado.
Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation and its affiliates are equal opportunity employers and maintain drug-free workplaces. All employees and candidates are reminded that Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation and its affiliates adhere to all applicable labor and employment laws, and State, County, and City-specific labor and employment regulations, where applicable.