Advanced Snow Cat Operator

Vail Resorts; Fairfield (PA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ski passes for employees

Employee lift discounts for friends &2

Free ski lessons

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Training & development

Referral Program

Job summary

Vail Resorts in Fairfield, PA is hiring Snow Cat Operators and other winter-season roles for 2026/27. Starting wage ranges from $22.96 to $30.61 per hour, with full-time and part-time shift options during winter, and night shifts available. This seasonal opportunity emphasizes safety, equipment operation, and teamwork on a world-class mountain resort.

Applicants should have 2–4 years of snow grooming experience, a valid driver’s license, and fluency in English. Housing is not provided.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of snow grooming experience required.
• Valid driver’s license with no restrictions.
• Must be able to communicate fluently in English.
• Ability to work in small groups as well as independently.

Responsibilities

• Operate snow/slope grooming equipment to maintain resort snow trails.
• Understand operation and maintenance of heavy equipment used for grooming.
• Maintain knowledge of the mountain and safety regulations.
• Perform basic inspections and preventative maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Communicate clearly via 2-way radio and coordinate with shop staff.
• Collaborate with coworkers and other departments to support operations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Snow grooming experience

Valid driver’s license

English fluency

Teamwork

Independent work

Tools

SnowCat

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

Service is the foundation of everything we stand for at Vail Resorts and our Snow Cat Operation team is no exception to creating this experience of a lifetime. Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface for thrill seekers.

Job Specifications

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

Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027

Shift Type: Full Time and Part Time hours available

• Night shifts only

Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age

Housing Availability: No

Job Responsibilities

Understand the use, operation, and maintenance of heavy equipment used for snow/slope grooming

Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible.

Maintain a general knowledge of the mountain and adhere to safety regulations

Perform basic routine inspections and preventative maintenance, on equipment to minimize downtime

Communicate clearly and effectively via 2-way radio

Communicate advanced mechanical problems or maintenance needs with shop mechanics

Communicate effectively with coworkers and other departments to provide direction, support and maintain good working relationships

Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements

2-4 years of snow grooming experience required

Valid driver's license with no restrictions

Must be able to communicate fluently in English

Ability to work in small groups as well as independently

Able to sit for extended periods of time while operating the snowcat as well as climb on and off frequently

Knowledge in 2-way radio use and various codes

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.

Requisition ID 517776
Reference Date:09/21/2026
Job Code Function:Grooming