Advanced Snow Cat Operator

Vail Resorts; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 3,168,000 - 4,271,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free passes

Ski lessons

Discounts

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Training program

Referral program

Job summary

Vail Resorts in United States is hiring for winter seasonal Snow Grooming Operator duties including operating snowcats, maintaining trails, and safety compliance. The role requires a valid driver's license, ability to operate heavy equipment, and ability to work overnight shifts in winter conditions.

Starting wage ranges from $22.96 to $30.61 per hour, with opportunities for growth, training, and extensive employee benefits. Housing is not provided, and roles are seasonal for Winter 2026/2027.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Operate heavy equipment safely.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English.
• Ability to work overnight shifts, weekends, holidays, and during adverse weather conditions.
• Snowcat or snow grooming experience (preferred).
• Experience operating heavy equipment, construction equipment, or similar machinery (preferred).
• Familiarity with ski area operations and snow surface management (preferred).
• Mechanical aptitude and basic equipment maintenance experience (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Operate snowcats and grooming equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
• Maintain ski trails, learning areas, tubing lanes, terrain features, and other snow surfaces to established quality standards.
• Evaluate snow conditions and adjust grooming techniques based on weather, skier traffic, and operational needs.
• Conduct pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and basic servicing of grooming equipment.
• Report mechanical issues promptly to maintenance personnel.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members using two-way radio systems.
• Follow all resort safety policies, operating procedures, and mountain access protocols.
• Assist with snow surface repairs, trail preparation, and special projects as assigned.
• Maintain awareness of changing weather and snow conditions that may impact operations.
• Support other Mountain Operations activities as needed.

Skills

Valid driver's license

Operate heavy equipment

English communication

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Job description

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

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

The Snow Grooming Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of snowcats and related equipment used to maintain ski slopes, terrain features, tubing areas, and other snow surfaces throughout the resort. Operators work closely with Snowmaking, Lift Operations, Terrain Park, and Mountain Operations leadership to ensure the highest level of slope quality and guest safety.

Job Specifications:

• Starting Wage: $22.96/hr - $30.61/hr
• Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
• Shift Type: Full Time hours available
• Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age
• Housing Availability: No

Job Responsibilities

• Operate snowcats and grooming equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
• Maintain ski trails, learning areas, tubing lanes, terrain features, and other snow surfaces to established quality standards.
• Evaluate snow conditions and adjust grooming techniques based on weather, skier traffic, and operational needs.
• Conduct pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and basic servicing of grooming equipment.
• Report mechanical issues promptly to maintenance personnel.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members using two-way radio systems.
• Follow all resort safety policies, operating procedures, and mountain access protocols.
• Assist with snow surface repairs, trail preparation, and special projects as assigned.
• Maintain awareness of changing weather and snow conditions that may impact operations.
• Support other Mountain Operations activities as needed.

Job Requirements:

Required

• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English.
• Ability to work overnight shifts, weekends, holidays, and during adverse weather conditions.

Preferred

• Previous snowcat or snow grooming experience.
• Experience operating heavy equipment, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, or similar machinery.
• Familiarity with ski area operations and snow surface management.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic equipment maintenance experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
• Ability to repeatedly climb into and out of grooming machinery.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work outdoors in winter conditions, including snow, cold temperatures, wind, and limited visibility.
• Ability to remain alert and focused during overnight operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Safe operation of heavy equipment.
• Strong situational awareness and risk management skills.
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Effective radio communication skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team while maintaining individual accountability.
• Commitment to providing exceptional slope conditions and guest experiences.

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 518237
Reference Date:10/08/2026
Job Code Function:Grooming