Grooming Lead: Snow Cat Operator (Seasonal)

Vail Resorts; South Lake Tahoe (CA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free employee passes

Discounted lift tickets for friends &

Free ski lessons

Lodging discounts

401(k) retirement plan

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Vail Resorts in the mountains is hiring for winter seasonal roles including Grooming Lead and related positions for the 2026/27 season. The roles require experience operating snowcats, a valid driver’s license, and fluency in English.

Employment runs Winter Seasonal 2026/2027 with full-time hours and housing unavailable. Starting wage ranges from $23.75 to $30.61 per hour, with benefits like employee passes, free ski lessons, and various discounts.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience operating snowcats.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable MVR.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Able to sit for extended periods of time while operating a snow cat.
• Able to read, write, speak, comprehend and understand English fluently.
• Mechanical or equipment background and experience with diesel engine/hydraulic machines (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety of crew and guests; oversee snow cat operations.
• Maintain snow cat cleanliness and preventative maintenance.
• Receive daily work instructions and report mechanical problems.
• Oversee performance and conduct of the crew during the shift.
• Maintain snowcat records and monitor time sheets.
• Coordinate with Ski Patrol and AVI control operations.

Skills

Snowcat operation

English fluency

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Two-way radios

Job description

Vail Resorts in the mountains is hiring for winter seasonal roles including Grooming Lead and related positions for the 2026/27 season. The roles require experience operating snowcats, a valid driver’s license, and fluency in English.

Employment runs Winter Seasonal 2026/2027 with full-time hours and housing unavailable. Starting wage ranges from $23.75 to $30.61 per hour, with benefits like employee passes, free ski lessons, and various discounts.