Avalanche Technician (Winter 26/27)

Canada West Ski Areas Association; District of North Vancouver; On-site; CAD 33,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Seasonal Access Pass

Discounts at resort facilities

Referral Bonus Program

Public Transit subsidies

Discounted lift tickets

Job summary

Northland Properties seeks an Avalanche Technician to join the Safety team at Grouse Mountain. You’ll support day-to-day safety operations, perform weather observations, collect snowpack data, and assist with avalanche forecasting and control under supervision.

Expect active participation in safety training and cross-department collaboration for a strong safety culture. You will work on variable schedules, occasionally weekends/holidays, and must pass a criminal record check.

Qualifications

• Minimum: 80 hour first aid certifications (e.g., OFA Level 3 or equivalent).
• BC Licensed EMR or PCP; Canadian Avalanche Association Operations Level 1.
• Expert ski touring ability in all terrain and conditions; mountaineering/backcountry experience.
• Strong risk management skills; ability to ski tour 10km per shift.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily weather observations and communicate data to agencies.
• Calibrate weather instruments and record snowpack data.
• Contribute to avalanche forecasting and safety trainings.
• Assist in avalanche control using established techniques and tools.
• Support patrol with morning setups and first aid responses.
• Participate in safety initiatives and event days.

Skills

First aid (80 hour)

Outdoor Emergency Care

Non-Urban Emergency Care

BC EMR/PCP license

CAA Operations Level 1

Ski touring expertise

Mountaineering/backcountry experience

Endurance skiing (10km)

Job description

Proud to be 100% Canadian-owned,NorthlandProperties’are recognized as one of the most trusted names in hotels, restaurants, resorts, sports, construction, and asset management. Our well-known and loved brands have been bringing people together to celebrate unforgettable experiences across Canada, the US, Ireland, and the UK for over 50 years. As Canada’s fastest-growing hospitality group, we believe the foundation of our continued success is our people and their ability to take great care of our guests.

Job Title:Avalanche Technician

Location:North Vancouver

Department:Safety

Reports to:Manager, Patrol

Role Status:Full Time / Part Time / Seasonal / Hourly

ABOUT US

As Vancouver’s premier attraction we offer truly rewarding and memorable experiences! Our team members get to work in a challenging and cooperative environment where everyone comes together to create memories of a lifetime. We offer a professional atmosphere, fantastic growth opportunities, unlimited outdoor recreation, an inspiring setting, and many unique employee privileges. We are seeking new team members who embody our core values that focuses on people, connection, growth and challenge. We foster a work environment where diversity is valued, quality of life is enhanced, and individual aspirations are fulfilled. Applicants who thrive in a positive environment where service excellence is top priority are encouraged to apply.

JOB SUMMARY

As an Avalanche Technician, you are an integral part of the Mountain Operations team; acting as a safety resource for all staff from all other departments and assisting in creating good safety culture at Grouse Mountain. Under direct supervision from the Patrol Supervisor and Patrol Manager, Avalanche Technicians assist in the day-to-day safety operations of the Snowshoe trails and surrounding areas. Part of your duties include daily weather observations and snowpack readings, data collection and reporting, avalanche forecasting and training, and other risk management initiatives.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Completing daily weather observations
• Ensuring all weather data is being forwarded to the correct agencies
• Calibrating and maintaining weather-reading equipment such as Stevenson screens, show accumulation boards and snow depth poles
• Digging weekly snow puts and recording findings of snowpack tests
• Touring the Snowshoe Park daily to maintain trail markings and signage
• Providing weather observations to the Avalanche Forecaster
• Assisting the Avalanche forecaster issue daily weather forecasts
• Assisting in the training of patrol staff in avalanche control and avalanche rescue techniques
• Assisting Patrol crews with morning set and responding to first aid calls
• Avalanche control including ski cutting and the use of explosives
• Closing sweep of the Snowshoe Park
• Organizing Grouse’s role in the CAA’s, ‘Avalanche Awareness Days’
• Other duties as required

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position reports directly to the Patrol Supervisor and Patrol Manager, with no direct supervisory responsibilities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND ABILITIES

Minimum Qualifications:

• ≥80 Hour first aid certification such as:Occupational First Aid Level 3,
• Outdoor Emergency Care,
• Non-Urban Emergency Care,
• BC Licensed EMR or PCP
• Canadian Avalanche Association Operations Level 1
• Expert ski touring (touring set up required) ability in all terrain and conditions
• Mountaineering, rock climbing and/or back country experience and skills
• Physically able to ski tour over 10km a shift
• Strong risk management skills
• Successful candidate must complete a criminal record check once offered the position; the check must be completed prior to start date if you are 19 years and older. Grouse Mountain will assist you with the process.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Process towards CAA Operations Level 2
• CAA Intro to Weather
• CAAAvSAAR
• WorkSafe BC Avalanche Blasting Certificate

WORKING CONDITIONS

Hours of Operation are weather dependant. Due to the nature of the business, this position requires flexibility in terms of your work schedule. A variety of work schedules may include a variety of start times, including shifts on weekends and statutory holidays. Shifts require standing for long periods of time, lifting, twisting, and other forms of manual tasks.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

$24.00 – $28.07/ hour

All positions are eligible for the following benefits and perks:

• Free Seasonal Access Pass
• Discounts at the resort’s restaurants, retail, and rental outlets
• Referral Bonus Program
• Public Transit subsidies
• Free or discounted lift tickets at many other resorts (winter/summer)
• Access to free Employee and Family Assistance Program
• Excellent training and professional development
• Northland Properties friends and family discounts program including hotels, restaurants and recreation

Full-time, year-round positions are also eligible for these:

• Health Insurance, Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance and Vision Insurance plans
• RRSP matching after 6 months of service
• Free access pass for dependants

DISCLAIMER

The prior statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Northland Properties 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.
At Northland Properties, we are committed to building a network of talented professionals who can help toprovideexceptional hospitality experiences. As an equal opportunity employer, we are constantlyseekingmotivated and enthusiastic individuals to join us in various fields, including Construction, Finance, IT, HR, Marketing, and Support Center. To join our dedicated team and be a part of our thriving hospitality community, explore the exciting career opportunities available athttps://northland.ca/careers/.