Cataloochee Ski Area Snow Maker -

Cataloochee Ski Area; Maggie Valley (NC); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Seasonal Bonus

Complimentary Slope Pass, Lessons &Tub

Discounts on food and retail

Housing provided

Learn from experienced snowmakers

Job summary

Cataloochee Ski Area is seeking dedicated snowmakers for the ski season. This seasonal outdoor role requires physical endurance and a passion for winter, with overtime, housing options, and the chance to learn from seasoned snowmaking professionals.

You will operate snowmaking equipment, monitor temperature and weather conditions, perform basic maintenance, follow safety protocols, log daily activities, and coordinate with mountain operations to ensure top-notch snow coverage across trails.

Qualifications

• Experience in snowmaking or outdoor maintenance is preferred but not required.
• Training will be provided.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in freezing conditions.

Responsibilities

• Snow production: Operate snowmaking equipment to cover trails and slopes.
• Monitoring & Adjusting: Observe temperature, humidity, wind, and weather conditions to optimize snow production.
• Maintenance: Perform basic maintenance on snowmaking equipment to ensure safe operation.
• Safety: Follow PPE and safety protocols; keep paths clear and communicate with team.
• Documentation: Log daily activities, equipment usage, and weather data.
• Coordination: Work with mountain operations, lift operators, and grooming crews.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Willingness to learn

Teamwork

Tools

Snowmaking equipment

Job description

Great Skiing in the Great Smokies!

Make Winter Happen. Most people see snow when they arrive at the mountain.

Snowmakers create it.

Before the lifts start turning, before the first skier drops into a trail, and before families make memories on the slopes, our Snowmaking Team is already out there building the foundation of the season. Snowmaking isn't just a job. It's one of the most respected and rewarding positions in the ski industry.

If you're looking for a physically challenging job that gets you outdoors, teaches valuable mechanical skills, offers plenty of overtime, and puts you on a team that literally creates winter, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

At Cataloochee Ski Area, you'll work alongside some of the most experienced snowmakers in the country, learn the science and technology behind snow production, and become part of a team that takes pride in transforming a mountainside into a winter playground.

No snowmaking experience? No problem. We'll train motivated individuals who are ready to work hard, learn new skills, and embrace the mountain lifestyle.

Why This Job Stands Out

• $18-$20 per hour
• Overtime opportunities available
• Housing available while it lasts
• Seasonal Bonus
• Complimentary Season Pass, Lessons & Tubing
• Food and Retail Discounts
• Learn from some of the best snowmakers in the industry
• Work where others come to vacation
• Build skills that can lead to opportunities throughout the ski industry

Position Overview

Cataloochee Ski Area is seeking dedicated, hardworking individuals to join our team as Snowmakers for the ski season. As a snowmaker, you will create and maintain high-quality snow coverage across the ski area to ensure an exceptional guest experience. This seasonal outdoor position requires physical endurance, a love for winter environments, and flexibility to work in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Snow Production: Operate snowmaking equipment to produce optimal snow coverage across trails and slopes, according to weather conditions and operational needs.
• Monitoring & Adjusting: Monitor weather data, including temperature, humidity, and wind, to determine the best times for snowmaking. Adjust equipment settings and positions to maximize efficiency and snow quality.
• Maintenance: Perform basic maintenance on snowmaking equipment to ensure continuous and safe operation. Report any technical issues to supervisors promptly.
• Safety: Adhere to all safety protocols, including personal protective equipment (PPE). Maintain clear paths and communicate effectively with other snowmaking team members and mountain operations.
• Documentation: Log daily activities, equipment usage, and weather conditions. Report snow production data to supervisors.
• Communication & Coordination: Work closely with the mountain operations team, including lift operators and grooming crews, to coordinate snowmaking efforts for optimal mountain coverage.

Qualifications

• Experience: Previous experience in snowmaking or outdoor maintenance is preferred but not required. Training will be provided.
• Skills: Mechanical aptitude with a willingness to learn equipment operations and maintenance. Familiarity with outdoor power tools and machinery is a plus.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work outdoors in freezing and snowy conditions for extended periods. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Availability: Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Snowmaking shifts are typically 12 hours and may involve both day and night work based on weather and production needs.
• Teamwork: Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team in challenging and dynamic conditions.

Housing is available while it lasts!

Perks:

• Seasonal Bonus
• Complimentary Slope Pass, Lessons & Tubing during the season.
• Discounts on food and retail.
• Opportunity to join a DYNAMIC team of SNOWMAKERS
  • Learn from some of the best snowmakers in the country - you never know where it could take you!

Few jobs allow you to look across a mountain at the end of a shift and see exactly what you've accomplished.

As a Snowmaker, you won't just work at a ski area. You'll help create the conditions that make the entire season possible. You'll develop valuable mechanical and operational skills, work with a dedicated team, and experience the pride that comes from knowing thousands of guests enjoy the mountain because of the work you and your team put in.