Groomer 2026/27

Columbia Hospitality, Inc.; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 25,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Hospitality, Inc. is seeking a Seasonal Groomer to operate snow grooming machines and prepare trails and terrain parks. The role involves night or early morning shifts, ensuring smooth, safe, and skiable surfaces for guests.

You will push and shape snow, perform safety checks, and follow grooming plans under supervision. The position requires physical fitness, a valid Ontario G license, and ability to work in varied outdoor conditions.

Qualifications

• Demonstrates independent judgment in day-to-day operations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather.
• Hold a valid Ontario G Driver's License.
• Experience operating snow grooming equipment or heavy machinery.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate snow grooming machines to maintain trails and terrain parks.
• Push, spread, and shape snow for optimal surface conditions.
• Perform safety checks and follow equipment procedures.
• Complete pre-shift inspections and maintenance.
• Execute grooming plans assigned by the Grooming Supervisor.
• Maintain grooming patterns and snow depth.
• Inspect equipment daily and report issues.
• Maintain radio communications and log reports.
• Assist other departments as needed.

Skills

Independent judgment

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Valid Ontario G Driver's License

Heavy machinery experience

Mechanical aptitude

Verbal communication

Job description

Position Title: Groomer (Seasonal)

Department: Operations

Reports to: Director, Operations or designate

Our Mission: Offer unique and memorable experiences through fun-filled programs, activities, and events!

Job Summary: Groomers are responsible for creating smooth, safe, and skiable surfaces by operating snow-grooming machinery across the facilities’ terrain. Working mostly at night or early morning, you will prepare slopes, terrain parks, and trails to ensure optimal conditions for guests. You will also provide snow removal services as necessary.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Operate snow grooming machines to maintain trails, slopes, and terrain parks.
• Push, spread, and shape snow for optimal surface conditions across a variety of terrain.
• Responsible for performing and maintaining all safety checks and complying with operational procedures on equipment.
• Complete pre-shift inspections and pre-shift maintenance, per Operators Log.
• Execute grooming plans provided by the Grooming Supervisor.
• Maintain proper grooming patterns including corduroy finish, trail edges, and consistent snow depth.
• Inspect and perform basic maintenance on grooming equipment daily.
• Record and report equipment issues, trail conditions, and grooming activity logs.
• Required to maintain intercom communication and use radios for contact and emergencies.
• Required to review and ensure the completion of operating records and inspection forms and reports.
• Required to assist in other departments as needed determined by the demands of operations.

Key Qualifications:

• Demonstrates strong independent judgment, discretion, and sound reasoning in day-to-day operations
• Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Takes pride in their work and consistently delivers high-quality results
• Detail-oriented with a strong ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Holds a valid Ontario "G" Driver's License
• Physically capable of repeatedly lifting up to 50 lbs (22.68 kg)
• Comfortable performing physically demanding tasks and working in varied outdoor conditions
• Able to remain stationary for extended periods while operating machinery
• Possesses excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and concisely
• Minimum experience operating heavy machinery (e.g., snowcats, loaders, tractors, or other large equipment)
• Strong mechanical aptitude and working knowledge of equipment and systems such as hydraulics, hydrostatics, and implements

Additional Requirements:

• Genuine passion for the recreation industry and enjoy sharing that enthusiasm with others
• Possess strong interpersonal skills-approachable, empathetic, and a good listener
• Flexible and adaptable, with a schedule that can accommodate changing business needs
• Willing and available to work weekends, evenings, and occasional on-call or shift coverage
• Comfortable working outdoors in extreme and changing weather conditions
• Must provide any additional uniform items in accordance with Chicopee’s uniform policy

• You have, or can use our Human Resource platform to obtain, the following certificates: WHMIS; Ladder Safety; Ontario Health & Safety Awareness (OHSA); Workplace Violence & Harassment (Bill 168 & 132); Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA); IASR: Information and Communications Standards and Employment Standards; Understanding Human Rights; Safe Lifting; Gender and Sexual Diversity; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB); Safe Food Handling (for Food and Beverage Employees) Training.