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Winter Lift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hilltop Ski Area

Winter Lift Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$15/hr

Monitor the operation of the lift continually and notify the appropriate personnel of any problems or unusual conditions. * Complete all required paperwork and abide by operating procedures, i.e ...

Tamarack Resort

Lift Operator

Donnelly, ID · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

SUMMARY The Lift Operator will perform any and all activities as assigned by the Lift Operations ... Inclement weather can and will be encountered on a regular basis, especially throughout the winter.

tamarackresort

Lift Operator

Donnelly, ID · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

SUMMARY The Lift Operator will perform any and all activities as assigned by the Lift Operations ... Inclement weather can and will be encountered on a regular basis, especially throughout the winter.

Alterra

Lift Operator - Summer Season

Winter Park, CO · On-site

$18.50/hr

At 67 miles away, Winter Park is the closest ski resort to Denver. With easy access to 765,000 ... The Lift Crew Member is responsible for the high-quality and efficient operation of the aerial and ...

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How much do winter lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for winter lift operator in the United States is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Winter Lift Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ski lift machinery, two-way radios, and safety equipment is typically required, and some resorts may prefer CPR or first aid certification. Excellent customer service, strong attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure passenger safety, efficient lift operations, and a positive guest experience in challenging winter conditions.

What are some typical challenges Winter Lift Operators face during the ski season, and how can they prepare for them?

Winter Lift Operators often work in cold, snowy, and sometimes rapidly changing weather conditions, which can pose physical and mental challenges. They must remain alert for long periods to ensure the safety of guests and handle any equipment malfunctions or emergency situations calmly and efficiently. To prepare, operators should dress in proper layered winter gear, stay informed about safety protocols, and develop strong communication skills to coordinate with team members and guests. Staying proactive and adaptable helps make the role both safe and rewarding.

What is the difference between Winter Lift Operator vs Ski Lift Technician?

AspectWinter Lift OperatorSki Lift Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, sometimes first aidTechnical certifications, electrical or mechanical training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, cold weather, on the lift or at stationsIndoor/outdoor, maintenance and repair of lifts
Employer & IndustryResorts, ski areas, winter recreationResorts, ski areas, specialized lift maintenance

Winter Lift Operators primarily operate and monitor ski lifts in outdoor winter conditions, focusing on guest safety and lift operation. Ski Lift Technicians perform maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of lift systems, requiring technical skills and certifications. While both roles work in ski resorts and outdoor environments, Lift Technicians have a more technical focus, whereas Operators handle daily lift operation and guest assistance.

What are Winter Lift Operators?

Winter Lift Operators are staff members who operate and monitor ski lifts at ski resorts during the winter season. Their primary responsibilities include ensuring the safe loading and unloading of passengers, maintaining the efficient operation of lift machinery, and providing assistance or information to skiers and snowboarders. They also perform routine safety checks and may help clear snow or ice from loading and unloading areas. This role requires a strong focus on safety, good communication skills, and the ability to work outdoors in cold conditions.
More about Winter Lift Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Winter Lift Operator jobs? Cities with the most Winter Lift Operator job openings:
What states have the most Winter Lift Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Winter Lift Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Winter Lift Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Winter Lift Operator jobs are:
Winter Lift Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Winter Lift Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,182 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Winter Lift Operator

Winter Lift Operator

Hilltop Ski Area

Anchorage, AK • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
To operate lift in accordance with policies and safety procedures outlined in lift operations training manual. To ensure the safe loading and unloading of the riding public. Also ensures that all guests have valid lift tickets and provide well organized lift lines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Ensure safe operation of lifts in accordance with ANSI B-77.
  • Responsible for greeting and assisting the public in the safe loading and unloading of ski lift, including giving instruction when necessary.
  • Maintain a clear level snow surface on loading and unloading ramps.
  • Monitor the operation of the lift continually and notify the appropriate personnel of any problems or unusual conditions.
  • Complete all required paperwork and abide by operating procedures, i.e., Opening procedures, downloading procedures, last chair protocol, etc.
  • Maintaining lift area and shack: cleaning and picking up all tools, equipment, ropes, and barriers. Keep snow and ice cleared and clearances maintained. Secure job site each day in order to eliminate potential hazards.
  • Handle guest relations in a friendly and courteous manner
  • Follow and adhere all company and departmental service standards i.e., punctuality, attendance, dress, and grooming standards, etc.
  • Give verbal instructions to customers on how to load and unload the lifts and be as friendly, helpful, and courteous as possible when doing so.
  • Be alert at all times monitoring safety.
  • Provide information to riders.
  • Participate in ski lift evacuation training exercise and actual ski lift evacuations, if necessary.
  • Use proper technique for loading and unloading lifts and assist with special cases, such as children and adaptive ski equipment.
  • Monitor gate ticket system maintain orderly crowd control in lift mazes.
  • Complete all required forms legibly and accurately such as the Daily Lift Log.
  • Perform pre-operation check of the lift as well as the end of shift.
  • Professionally resolve issues during shift and communicate to supervisor.
  • Call for assistance as needed.
  • Ensure break rotation schedule is timely.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates the knowledge and ability to perform the work
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Able to work up to 40 hours per week including holidays, weekends, and evenings, as necessary.
  • Ability to operate a ski lift, load and unload guests on a ski lift, direct guests through lift lines, and maintain ramp conditions in all areas in varying types of weather.
  • Ability to ride a chairlift as a passenger.
  • Willingness and ability to perform manual work following verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to work independently and complete daily activities according to work schedule.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects 50+, walk, and stand for long periods of time and perform strenuous physical labor.
  • Ability to communicate orally and in writing.
  • Strong communication skills and good judgement skills in dealing with guests.
  • Ability to react quickly under pressure.
  • Ability to use equipment and tools properly and safely.
  • Ability to understand, follow, transmit written and oral instructions.
  • Ability to complete paperwork and keep records in an organized fashion.
  • Ability to meet attendance schedule with dependability and consistency.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands or finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The employee must be able to lift, push, pull, or carry objects, use abdominal and lower back muscles to provide support over time without fatigue and to effectively jump, sprint, or throw an object. Excellent stamina is required. The employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts and in outside conditions that include inclement weather, heat, cold and humidity, and exposure to snow/ice.

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