Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Vail Resorts; Kirkwood (CA); On-site; USD 30,665 - 38,338; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ski passes for employees

Employee discounts on lodging, food, &

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Training and development

Job summary

Vail Resorts is seeking Snow Cat Operators for the Winter Seasonal 2026/2027 period in Kirkwood, CA. Starting wage is $22.26–$27.83 per hour, with full-time hours available and housing options on site. Must be 18+, hold a valid driver's license, and be fluent in English.

Operate snowcat and related heavy equipment to groom slopes, perform inspections, and coordinate with teams via radio. This seasonal role offers benefits and professional development opportunities in a dynamic mountain

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.
• Able to sit for extended periods while operating the snowcat and climb on/off frequently.
• Knowledge in 2-way radio use and various codes.

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 slopes.
• 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 via 2-way radio and with shop mechanics as needed.
• Collaborate with coworkers and other departments to maintain good working relationships.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Snow grooming experience

English fluency

Safety minded

Tools

Snow grooming equipment

Job description

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

Job Summary

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: $22.26/hr - $27.83/hr
• Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
• Shift Type: Full Time hours available
• Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age
• Housing Availability: Yes

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 $22.26/hr - $27.83/hr. This is the pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

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.