Groomer Operator

Swain Resort; Northern, New York (KY, NY); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Swain Resort is seeking a Groomer Operator to maintain high-quality snow surfaces across the mountain by operating grooming equipment safely and efficiently.

The role focuses on creating smooth trails and terrain features to enhance guest experience, with seasonal/full-time/part-time status and a pay range of $16.50-$19.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• Grooming or heavy equipment experience preferred; training may be provided.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic maintenance skills.
• Ability to work overnight and early morning shifts, including weekends.
• Able to lift up to 75 lbs; physically demanding tasks.
• Comfortable in challenging weather and low visibility.
• Must be at least 18 years old.

Responsibilities

• Operate snow grooming machines to maintain ski trails, terrain parks, and base areas.
• Push, pack, and level snow to achieve optimal trail conditions.
• Assist with snowmaking distribution and coordination when needed.
• Inspect, maintain, and report mechanical issues or safety concerns related to grooming equipment.
• Work closely with the Mountain Operations team to prioritize grooming assignments and maintain communication.
• Monitor weather, snow, and surface conditions to adjust grooming techniques as needed.
• Uphold all safety protocols for machine operation, including lights, radios, and visibility procedures.
• Perform daily pre- and post-shift inspections of grooming machines.
• Assist with setup and teardown of special events, races, and terrain park builds.
• Maintain professionalism and care when operating heavy machinery around resort guests and property.

Skills

Grooming equipment operation

Mechanical aptitude

Snow condition awareness

Overnight/early shifts

Weather resilience

Age 18+

Physical fitness

Team oriented

Tools

Snow grooming machines (cats)

Job description

Reports To: Grooming Supervisor / Mountain Operations Manager

Location: Swain Resort - Swain, NY

Status: Seasonal / Full-Time / Part-Time (depending on needs)

Pay Rate Range: $16.50 - $19.00

Position Summary

The Groomer Operator at Swain Resort is responsible for maintaining high-quality snow surfaces across the mountain by operating snow grooming equipment safely and efficiently. This position plays a crucial role in creating smooth, consistent trails and terrain park features that enhance the guest experience and overall mountain quality.

• Operate snow grooming machines (cats) to maintain ski trails, terrain parks, and base areas.
• Push, pack, and level snow to achieve optimal trail conditions.
• Assist with snowmaking snow distribution and coordination when needed.
• Inspect, maintain, and report any mechanical issues or safety concerns related to grooming equipment.
• Work closely with the Mountain Operations team to prioritize grooming assignments and maintain consistent communication.
• Monitor weather, snow, and surface conditions to adjust grooming techniques as needed.
• Uphold all safety protocols for machine operation, including use of lights, radios, and visibility procedures.
• Perform daily pre- and post-shift inspections of grooming machines.
• Assist with setup and teardown of special events, races, and terrain park builds.
• Maintain professionalism and care when operating heavy machinery around resort guests and property.

Qualifications

• Previous grooming or heavy equipment operation experience preferred, but willing to train motivated candidates.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic maintenance skills.
• Strong understanding of snow conditions and mountain terrain preferred.
• Ability to work overnight and early morning shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• Comfortable working independently in challenging weather and low-visibility conditions.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Team-oriented, reliable, and safety-focused attitude.