Avalanche Forecast & Snow Safety Specialist

Big White Ski Resort Ltd; Kelowna; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Seasonal employee benefits

Ski resort privileges

Job summary

Big White Ski Resort Ltd invites applications for an Avalanche Technician – Full Time Seasonal. You will support safe mountain operations through avalanche forecasting, hazard assessment, and snow safety work with Ski Patrol and Mountain Operations.

Responsibilities include monitoring conditions, conducting stability tests, coordinating with teams, and participating in emergency response when required; safety and meticulous reporting are essential in this high-altitude environment.

Qualifications

• CAA ITP 1 or actively pursuing it.
• Current First Aid Level 3 or equivalent wilderness certification.
• Valid PAL or explosives authorization, or ability to obtain.
• Strong skiing or snowboarding ability in advanced alpine terrain.
• Experience with snowpack observations and avalanche hazard assessments.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills.
• Able to work outdoors in severe winter weather.
• Valid Class 5 driver's license.
• Willingness to work early mornings, weekends, holidays during winter season.

Responsibilities

• Monitor weather, snowpack, and avalanche conditions through regular field observations and data collection.
• Conduct snow stability tests, snow profile analyses, and avalanche hazard assessments.
• Plan and carry out avalanche control operations using approved methods and explosives in accordance with provincial regulations, resort procedures, and industry best practices.
• Prepare daily avalanche hazard forecasts and communicate operational recommendations to Ski Patrol leadership and Mountain Operations.
• Assist with opening terrain following avalanche control work and confirm areas are safe for public access.
• Maintain accurate records of weather observations, snowpack data, avalanche occurrences, and control activities.
• Collaborate with Ski Patrol, Lift Operations, Grooming, and Mountain Operations to coordinate safe mountain operations.
• Participate in emergency response, search and rescue, and incident management when required.
• Inspect, maintain, and inventory avalanche control equipment, explosives storage, and safety gear.
• Contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of the resort’s Snow Safety Program.
• Participate in preseason planning, training, and operational readiness exercises.
• Maintain compliance with WorkSafeBC regulations and all applicable safety policies and procedures.

Skills

Skiing/snowboarding in alpine terrain

Snowpack observations

Avalanche hazard assessments

Communication & teamwork

Decision-making under pressure

Physical fitness

Education

CAA ITP 1 or working towards it

First Aid Level 3 or equivalent wilderness certification

PAL or explosives authorization, or ability to obtain

Valid Class 5 driver's license

Job description

Big White Ski Resort Ltd invites applications for an Avalanche Technician – Full Time Seasonal. You will support safe mountain operations through avalanche forecasting, hazard assessment, and snow safety work with Ski Patrol and Mountain Operations.

Responsibilities include monitoring conditions, conducting stability tests, coordinating with teams, and participating in emergency response when required; safety and meticulous reporting are essential in this high-altitude environment.