Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Vail Resorts; Kirkwood (CA); On-site; USD 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free passes

Free ski lessons

Employee discounts

Wellness benefits

Housing available

Job summary

Vail Resorts in Kirkwood, California, is hiring for winter 2026/27 for Snow Cat Operators and other seasonal roles. Starting wage ranges from $22.26 to $27.83 per hour; positions are winter seasonal with full-time hours available.

As a Snow Cat Operator you will operate grooming equipment to prepare and maintain ski slopes, follow safety regulations, and coordinate with resort teams. Housing may be available and perks include free passes, lessons, and Lodging/retail discounts.

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 snowcat.

Responsibilities

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

Job description

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

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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: $22.26/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.

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 515716
Reference Date:07/14/2026
Job Code Function:Grooming