Experienced Terrain Park Snowcat Operator

Vail Resorts; Truckee (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free employee passes

Discounted lift tickets for friends/fm

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee training & development

Job summary

Vail Resorts in Truckee, CA is seeking an Experienced Terrain Park Snowcat Operator to construct, shape, and maintain terrain park features and riding surfaces. You will operate snowcats and grooming equipment to deliver safe, high-quality guest experiences while collaborating with Terrain Park leadership.

This winter seasonal role requires overnight shifts, a valid driver's license, and strong knowledge of park design and safety procedures.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Advanced skiing or snowboarding knowledge and terrain park design understanding.
• Ability to work overnight shifts, weekends, holidays.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality and guest experience.

Responsibilities

• Construct, shape, and maintain terrain park features (jumps, rails, boxes, transitions).
• Execute build plans and feature layouts as directed by leadership.
• Shape and groom takeoffs, landings, knuckles, and transitions to standards.
• Maintain grooming logs and equipment documentation.
• Collaborate with Terrain Park and Grooming teams; support events and trainings.

Skills

Snowcat operation

Terrain park design

Safety awareness

Overnight shift readiness

Tools

GPS-enabled grooming system

Job description

Experienced Terrain Park Snowcat Operator

Date: Sep 10, 2026

Location: Truckee, CA, US

Shift Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027

Create Your Experience of a Lifetime!

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

• 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

The Terrain Park Snowcat Operator is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and grooming of terrain park features and riding surfaces to provide a safe, progressive, and high-quality guest experience. This position operates snowcats and specialized grooming equipment to build, shape, and maintain terrain parks in accordance with resort design standards, risk management practices, and operational goals. Operators work closely with Terrain Park and Grooming leadership to support daily park operations and maintain feature consistency throughout the season.

Job Specifications

• Starting Wage:$22.00/hr - $27.70/hr
• Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
• Shift Type: Full Timehours available
• Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age
• Housing Availability: No

Job Responsibilities

Terrain Park Construction & Maintenance

• Build, shape, and maintain terrain park features including jumps, rails, boxes, transitions, rollers, and progression areas
• Execute terrain park build plans and feature layouts as directed by Terrain Park leadership
• Shape and groom jump takeoffs, landings, knuckles, and transition zones to established standards.
• Perform routine touch-ups and snow management to maintain feature integrity and rideability
• Assist with park rebuilds, feature moves, and seasonal terrain park construction projects
• Maintain feature spacing, flow, and progression consistent with resort objectives

Equipment Operation

• Safely operate snowcats equipped with tillers, blades, winches, and terrain park attachments.
• Conduct pre-operational and post-operational equipment inspections.
• Monitor equipment condition and promptly report mechanical concerns.
• Maintain accurate grooming logs, operator reports, and equipment documentation.
• Operate snow grooming equipment on variable terrain, snow conditions, and weather conditions

Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure all work complies with resort Terrain Park Design and Risk Management standards.
• Identify and report hazards, feature deterioration, snow condition concerns, and operational risks.
• Maintain awareness of guest traffic and mountain operations while working.
• Assist with daily feature inspections and corrective maintenance.
• Follow all company, OSHA, and resort safety procedures.

Teamwork & Communication

• Collaborate with Terrain Park Managers, Supervisors, Attendants, and Grooming teams.
• Participate in daily operational briefings and planning meetings.
• Communicate feature conditions, construction updates, and operational challenges effectively.
• Assist with special events, competitions, photoshoots, and training sessions when required.
• Support mountain operations during high-priority snow management projects.

Job Requirements

• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.Ability to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively.
• Advanced skiing or snowboarding knowledge with a strong understanding of terrain park design and progression.
• Ability to work independently during overnight shifts.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as operational needs require.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and guest experience.

Preferred Skills

• Previous snowcat operating experience.
• Terrain park building and design experience.
• Experience with park construction equipment and specialty attachments.
• Familiarity with SMS, Smart Style, and terrain park risk management principles.GPS-equipped grooming system experience.
• Knowledge of snowmaking and mountain operations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and operate equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb into and out of equipment multiple times per shift.
• Ability to shovel, rake, and perform manual snow maintenance tasks when required.
• Ability to work overnight in winter weather conditions, including snow, wind, and low visibility.
• Ability to maintain focus during long shifts in remote mountain environments.

The expected pay range is$22.00/hr - $27.70/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.

Nearest Major Market: Sacramento

Nearest Secondary Market: Elk Grove