Grooming Operations Manager - Mountain Resort

Smugglers; Jeffersonville (VT); On-site; USD 61,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Resort privileges and employee-disount

Collaborative work environment

East Coast family ski destination

Job summary

Smugglers Resort is seeking a Grooming Manager to lead and coordinate nightly grooming operations for trails, terrain parks, and mountain facilities. You will oversee staffing, training, scheduling, and performance while aligning grooming with weather, guest expectations, and resort objectives.

The role includes planning maintenance, equipment readiness, and cross‑department collaboration. The position requires 3–5 years in mountain grooming, strong leadership, and a solid understanding of

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years in mountain grooming operations.
• Previous supervisory or management experience.
• Extensive knowledge of snowcat and winching operations, snow management, and trail preparation.
• Strong understanding of mountain safety practices and risk management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to adapt and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with heavy equipment maintenance.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise all grooming department personnel, including hiring, training, scheduling, coaching, and performance management.
• Plan and execute nightly grooming operations to maintain optimal snow conditions and trail presentation.
• Coordinate grooming strategies with Snowmaking, Ski Patrol, Terrain Parks, and Mountain Operations departments.
• Monitor weather forecasts, snowpack conditions, and mountain usage to develop grooming plans.
• Ensure safe operation and maintenance of grooming equipment and associated machinery.
• Ensure established preventative maintenance schedules and equipment repair priorities are completed.
• Plan and execute summer projects and trail maintenance including coordination and oversight of outside vendors performing work.
• Work closely with other departments outside of Mountain Operations to meet their objectives regarding snow surfaces.
• Monitor departmental budgets, labor costs, fuel usage, and operational efficiencies.
• Develop and enforce safety standards, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain accurate operational records and reports.
• Respond effectively to changing weather conditions and operational challenges.
• Participate in strategic planning related to grooming operations, fleet management, and capital improvements.
• Support special events and resort initiatives as needed.

Skills

Mountain grooming operations

Supervisory experience

Snowcat operations

Safety and risk management

Leadership and communication

Heavy equipment maintenance

Driver's license

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

Prinoth

PistenBully

GPS‑assisted grooming

Job description

Smugglers Resort is seeking a Grooming Manager to lead and coordinate nightly grooming operations for trails, terrain parks, and mountain facilities. You will oversee staffing, training, scheduling, and performance while aligning grooming with weather, guest expectations, and resort objectives.

The role includes planning maintenance, equipment readiness, and cross‑department collaboration. The position requires 3–5 years in mountain grooming, strong leadership, and a solid understanding of