Advanced Equipment Operator

Vail Resorts; Truckee (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free passes

Discount lift tickets for friends and

Free ski lessons

Discount lodging

Discount food

Discount gear

Mountain shuttles

401(k)

Employee assistance program

Training and development

Referral program

Job summary

Vail Resorts is hiring for winter seasonal roles in the mountains. Starting wage ranges from $22.96 to $30.61 per hour, with an emphasis on safety and teamwork. Positions include heavy equipment operation and general resort operations, offering benefits, training, and employee programs.

Applicants should have at least 1 year of heavy equipment experience, a valid license, and the ability to lift 100 lbs. This seasonal work supports a dynamic alpine environment served by a strong benefits package.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year heavy equipment experience.
• Experience using power tools.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Able to read, write, speak, understand and comprehend English fluently.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Able to lift and carry 100lbs.
• CDL License and/or the ability to obtain one if needed – preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide routine maintenance to slopes and operate all equipment used by the Mt. Ops team including Skid Steers, Forklifts and Backhoes.
• Monitor all equipment and address issues promptly with Vehicle Maintenance.
• Physical labor will be required due to broad scope of duties for the resort.
• Take directions and work as part of a team.
• Accurately troubleshoot equipment problems.
• Assist in training of new and developing operators.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Physical stamina

Teamwork

English fluency

Attention to safety

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Power tools

CDL license

Job description

Now hiring for winter 2026/27 - Cooks, Drivers, Instructors & more.

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

Fully competent operator responsible for (including but not limited to) operating the full range of heavy equipment, typically including snow plows and dump trucks, as well as backhoe loaders, front end loaders, dozers, fork lifts, zambonis, etc. CDL license required for dump truck operation. Requires extensive experience and training and advanced skills.

Job Specifications:

Starting Wage: $22.96/hr - $30.61/hr

Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027

Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age

Housing Availability: No

Job Responsibilities:

• Provide routine maintenance to slopes and operate all equipment used by the Mt. Ops team including but not limited to Skid Steers, Forklifts and Backhoes.
• Monitor all equipment and make sure that all issues are addressed promptly and communicated with Vehicle Maintenance.
• Physical Labor will be required due to the broad scope of the jobs that will be done for the resort.
• Take directions and work as part of a team.
• Accurately troubleshoot equipment problems.
• Plays a helpful role and constructive role in training of new and developing operators.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

• At least 1 year heavy equipment experience
• Experience using power tools.
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Able to read, write, speak, understand and comprehend English fluently
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record
• Able to lift and carry 100lbs
• CDL License and/or the ability to obtain one if needed – preferred

The expected pay range is$22.96/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.

Nearest Major Market: Sacramento
Nearest Secondary Market: Elk Grove