Grooming Winch Operator

Mission Ridge Ski Resort; Wenatchee (WA); On-site; USD 29,962 - 35,679; Full time

Job summary

Mission Ridge Ski Resort is looking for a Groomer/Winch Groomer to join our team. This role is crucial for maintaining exceptional ski surfaces to enhance guest experiences. You will be responsible for operating snowcats and ensuring all grooming operations meet our high standards.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 4 years of grooming experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in challenging winter conditions. If you are ready for a dynamic work environment, apply now!

Qualifications

• At least 4 years in alpine grooming and winch grooming.
• Proficient with a variety of grooming equipment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate snowcats and winch cats safely and efficiently.
• Assist with Terrain Park work and Alpine grooming.
• Work in dynamic environments during inclement weather.

Skills

Grooming Experience

Equipment Operation

Communication

Problem-Solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

4 years of grooming experience

Job description

Class/Group: Hourly/Non-Exempt, Group III or IV
Reports to: Grooming Manager/Snow Surfaces Director
Pay Range: $21.75–$25.90
Status: Winter Seasonal, Full-Time or Part-Time

Central Purpose

To enrich the lives of our community by providing joy and freedom through exploration.

Core Values

Seek first to help – Dedicated to results – Optimism in action – Solution seekers.

Position Summary

World‑class grooming is essential to delivering a world‑class ski surface. As a Groomer/Winch Groomer at Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort, you will bring your grooming experience, problem‑solving skills, and teamwork to ensure the mountain is prepared nightly to the highest standards. This position plays a key role in delivering an exceptional guest experience and maintaining a strong foundation for a winter season filled with joy, freedom, fun, and exploration.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Operate snowcats and winch cats safely and in accordance with Mission standards, producing exceptional skiable surfaces across various slopes including steep‑terrain locations.
• Operate snowcats to assist with Terrain Park work and Alpine grooming.
• Operate in dynamic environments with inclement weather at night while ensuring surfaces remain safe and consistent.
• Operate additional heavy equipment as needed.
• May occasionally fulfill other roles.

Skills Required

• Grooming Experience: At least 4 years in alpine grooming and winch grooming, with extensive knowledge of snow types and grooming techniques.
• Equipment Operation: Proficient with a variety of grooming equipment; heavy machinery and mechanical aptitude is a plus.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.
• Problem‑Solving: Capable of making sound decisions under pressure; detail‑oriented work ethic.
• Work Conditions: Able to work nights, extended long shifts in severe winter weather.
• Valid WA Driver’s License (preferred). Skiing/snowboarding ability preferred, but not required.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 4 years of grooming experience required.
• Additional related training or certifications and experience operating heavy machinery in mountain environments are highly beneficial.

Work Environment

This position requires working outdoors in a high‑alpine environment during winter conditions, including cold temperatures, wind, snow, and limited visibility. Grooming shifts typically occur overnight and can extend beyond normal working hours, especially during weather events. The team works independently and collaboratively with other departments and must be prepared to manage both physical and mental demands in a remote mountain setting.

Physical Demands

The role demands the ability to lift 80 pounds, operate grooming equipment for 10+ hours, and perform duties that require sitting, bending, kneeling, and climbing in snowy or icy conditions. Visual attention to detail and hearing sufficient to communicate via radio are essential. The job also requires completing documentation and reading technical instructions under varying light conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Seeing: Frequently – Must be able to read reports and use a computer.
• Hearing: Frequently – Must be able to hear well enough to communicate with coworkers.
• Standing/Walking: Regularly – Consistent and constant standing and walking while in operation.
• Climbing/Stooping/Kneeling: Regularly – Ability to stand, walk, climb, balance, kneel, stoop, and crouch for extended periods.
• Lifting/Pulling/Pushing: Regularly – Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Fingering/Grasping/Feeling: Regularly – Must be able to write, type, and use a phone system.
• Sitting: Frequently – Must be able to write, type, and use a phone system.

Note: The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.