Grooming Equipment Operator - Winter 26-27

Alterra Mountain Company; Sandpoint (ID); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free pass

Employee housing

Discounted onsite childcare

Paid sick leave

401(k) match

Pro deals

Medical benefits

Vacation time

Parental leave

Job summary

Alterra Mountain Company at Schweitzer is seeking a Seasonal Groomer to operate grooming equipment and maintain ski slopes and terrain parks. The role involves overnight or early-morning shifts in varying weather, ensuring safe, smooth surfaces for skiers and snowboarders.

The position requires operating snow cats, building features, and coordinating with mountain operations. Candidates should be able to lift up to 50 lbs, have a Driver's License, and be prepared for seasonal work at Schweitzer.

Qualifications

• License/Certifications: Driver's License preferred.
• Technical: Operate heavy machinery.
• Physical: capable of lifting up to 50 lbs (up to 100 lbs with assistance).
• Education/Related Experience: English reading/writing, basic math.

Responsibilities

• Operate snow cats and grooming machinery safely in extreme weather.
• Maintain consistent snow surfaces across areas.
• Build and shape terrain park features as needed.
• Perform routine equipment checks and minor repairs.
• Communicate with mountain operations to prioritize grooming needs.
• Must know Schweitzer terrain.
• Use two-way radio and log shift activity, hours, fuel, and issues.

Skills

Driver's License

Operate heavy machinery

Education

English literacy

Basic math

Job description

Seasonal

Welcome to Schweitzer-where passionate mountain recreation pros work hard and play harder. Known for our friendly, inclusive culture, we're growing thoughtfully to enhance mountain access and village life. Join the Schweitzer difference and help shape our future.

Perks include:

• Free Alterra Mountain Resort pass
• Employee housing
• Discounted onsite childcare
• Accrued paid sick leave
• 401(k) match
• Great discounts and access to pro deals
• Depending on employment status you could qualify for full medical benefits, vacation time, and paid parental leave.

Employment Status: Full Time or Part Time Seasonal

Wage Range: $20.00 to $28.00

Minimum Age: 18

Background Check Required: No

Driver Verification Required: No

Drug Screen: Yes

Position Summary:

The Groomer is responsible for operating specialized grooming equipment to maintain ski slopes, trails, and terrain parks in optimal condition. This role ensures a safe, smooth, and enjoyable surface for skiers and snowboarders by grooming snow, building features, and managing snow distribution. Groomers work independently but as part of a strong team, often during overnight or early morning shifts, in varying weather conditions.

Essential Functions and Major Responsibilities

• Operating snow cats and grooming machinery safely and efficiently in extreme weather conditions, on snow and ice.
• Maintaining consistent snow surfaces across designated areas.
• Building and shaping terrain park features as needed.
• Performing routine equipment checks both pre and post shift and basic maintenance including minor repairs.
• Communicating with mountain operations teams to prioritize grooming needs.
• Must know Schweitzer terrain.
• Will operate a two-way radio; will assist other departments to transport people, materials and refuse; will log in shift activity reports, hours, fuel, and problems on shift.

Specific Job Skills:

License/Certifications - Driver's License preferred

Technical - Operate heavy machinery

Physical Capabilities - Will lift up to 50 lbs. and up to 100 lbs. with assistance. Standing and/or walking for extended lengths of time on uneven terrain. Ability to work in all weather conditions.

Additional - None

Education/Related Experience:

Minimum education required - English reading, writing, communication; basic math .

Minimum time in related position - Experience with Hydrostatic drives / Hydraulic controls helpful.