Grooming Equipment Operator - Winter 26-27

Alterra Mountain Company; United States; On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Alterra Mountain Resort pass

Employee housing

Discounted onsite childcare

Accrued paid sick leave

401(k) match

Great discounts and access to pro deal

Job summary

Schweitzer in Sandpoint, Idaho, seeks a Groomer to operate snow cats and grooming machines, maintain smooth snow surfaces, and build terrain park features. You will work independently within a tight team, often during overnight or early morning shifts, in varying weather conditions.

This full-time or part-time seasonal role offers a competitive hourly wage, housing options, and access to employee benefits. If you enjoy mountain operations and crafted snow surfaces, join Schweitzer to help

Qualifications

• Must have experience or familiarity with heavy grooming equipment.
• Ability to operate in extreme weather conditions and at night.
• Comfort with lifting up to 50 lbs and working on uneven terrain.

Responsibilities

• Operate snow cats and grooming machinery safely in cold conditions.
• Maintain consistent snow surfaces across designated areas.
• Build and shape terrain park features as needed.
• Perform pre/post shift equipment checks and basic repairs.
• Coordinate with mountain operations to prioritize grooming needs.
• Log shift activity and fuel usage; follow Schweitzer procedures.

Skills

Heavy machinery

Physical fitness

Weather resilience

Communication

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.

Considered by many as the best skiing in Idaho and the best family-friendly resort in the Pacific Northwest, Schweitzer ranks as one of the nation’s top winter destinations with 2,900 acres of incredible terrain thanks to two massive bowls and renowned tree skiing. Located in the rugged Selkirk Mountains of the northern Idaho panhandle, and only 80 miles from Spokane, WA, Schweitzer overlooks the town of Sandpoint, ID and offers breathtaking views of three states, Canada and the impressive Lake Pend Oreille.

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