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Snowcat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

West Dover, VT · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

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 resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

Vail Mountain

Lead Snow Cat Operator

Vail, CO

$23.75/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

Vail Resorts

Lead Snow Cat Operator

Bartlett, NH · On-site

$23.75 - $30.61/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

Vail Mountain

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Vail, CO

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Gorham, NH · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Beaver Creek, CO · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

Vail Resorts

Lead Snow Cat Operator

Beaver Creek, CO · On-site

$23.75 - $30.61/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Vail, CO · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible. * Maintain a general knowledge of ...

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Snowcat information

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$10

$23

$44

How much do snowcat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for snowcat in the United States is $23.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Snowcat operators during peak winter season?

Snowcat operators often work long shifts in harsh winter conditions, which can be physically demanding and require strong attention to safety. Navigating poor visibility, icy terrain, and unpredictable weather are frequent challenges. Operators must also collaborate closely with ski patrol, mountain maintenance teams, and other operators to ensure trails are groomed efficiently and safely. Quick troubleshooting and basic mechanical knowledge are valuable, as minor equipment issues may need to be addressed on the spot to keep operations running smoothly.

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

To thrive as a Snowcat Operator, you generally need experience in heavy equipment operation, a valid driver’s license, and knowledge of snow grooming techniques. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, snow grooming attachments, and regular maintenance procedures is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help operators manage challenging weather conditions and coordinate with other staff. These skills are crucial to ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality grooming of ski slopes or trails for optimal user experience.

What is the difference between Snowcat vs Snowmobile?

AspectSnowcatSnowmobile
Primary UseHeavy-duty snow grooming and terrain managementRecreational riding and personal transportation
Work EnvironmentOff-road, snow-covered terrains, often in ski resorts or construction sitesOpen snow-covered areas, trails, and recreational parks
Required CertificationsOperator training, safety certifications, sometimes specialized vehicle licensesRecreational licenses, safety training
Industry UsageSnow management, ski resorts, constructionRecreation, sports, personal travel

Snowcats are specialized vehicles used mainly for snow grooming and terrain management in professional settings like ski resorts, requiring specific operator training. Snowmobiles are primarily recreational vehicles for personal use on snow, with different licensing requirements. While both operate in snowy environments, their functions and industry applications differ significantly.

What are snowcat operators?

Snowcat operators are skilled professionals who drive and operate snowcat vehicles, which are specialized tracked machines designed for traveling over snow and rough terrain. They are commonly employed at ski resorts, construction sites, or in remote areas to groom ski slopes, transport people or equipment, and maintain snow-covered roads or trails. Snowcat operators must be able to safely maneuver these vehicles in challenging winter conditions and often work irregular hours, including nights and weekends.
More about Snowcat jobs
What states have the most Snowcat jobs? States with the most job openings for Snowcat jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Snowcat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Snowcat jobs are:
Snowcat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snowcat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Temporary, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,481 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Lead Snow Cat Operator

Lead Snow Cat Operator

Stevens Pass Mountain Resort

Leavenworth, WA

$23.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Create Your Experience of a Lifetime!

Come work and play in the mountains!  Whether it’s your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means discovering (or re-discovering!) a passion for the outdoors while building lifelong connections with teammates and guests from around the world.

With 40+ resorts across 3 continents, you can join our team for a season or stay to build a career. From day one, you'll receive some of the highest compensation rates in the industry, free pass(es) along with free ski and snowboard lessons, 40% retail discounts, the chance to grow through Epic Service - our leading training and development experience, and wellness benefits to fuel your success.

Hiring for our seasonal positions occurs on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted until December 15th or until the positions are filled (whichever is first).

Employee Benefits

•    Ski/Mountain Perks! Free passes for employees, employee discounted lift tickets for friends and family AND free ski lessons 
•    MORE employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles
•    401(k) Retirement Plan 
•    Employee Assistance Program
•    Excellent training and professional development
•    Referral Program

To Learn More, please review the Benefits Eligibility Summary

Job Summary:  

Service is the foundation of everything we stand for at Vail Resorts and our Snow Cat Operation team is no exception to creating this experience of a lifetime. Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface for thrill seekers. 

Job Specifications: 

  • Starting Wage: $23.75/hr - $30.61/hr  

  • Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027  

  • Shift Type: Full Time hours available 

  • Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age  

  • Housing Availability: Yes 

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Understand the use, operation, and maintenance of heavy equipment used for snow/slope grooming   

  • Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible.    

  • Maintain a general knowledge of the mountain and adhere to safety regulations    

  • Perform basic routine inspections and preventative maintenance, on equipment to minimize downtime   

  • Communicate clearly and effectively via 2-way radio   

  • Communicate advanced mechanical problems or maintenance needs with shop mechanics     

  • Communicate effectively with coworkers and other departments to provide direction, support and maintain good working relationships     

  • Other duties as assigned 

Job Requirements: 

  • 2-4 years of snow grooming experience required   

  • Valid driver's license with no restrictions   

  • Must be able to communicate fluently in English    

  • Ability to work in small groups as well as independently   

  • Able to sit for extended periods of time while operating the snowcat as well as climb on and off frequently   

  • Knowledge in 2-way radio use and various codes 

The expected pay range is $23.75/hr - $30.61/hr. This is the pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

In completing this application, and when submitting related documentation, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, and/or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. 

We follow all federal, state, and local laws including restrictions on child/minor labor. Minors hired into this position will not be asked or permitted to engage in any activities restricted to adult workers.

Vail Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Requisition ID  515930
Reference Date: 07/14/2026 
Job Code Function: Grooming  

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