Lead Base Area Operator

Vail Resorts; United States; On-site; USD 30,307 - 37,029; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free employee ski pass

Discounted lift tickets for friends &/

Free ski lessons

Lodging discounts

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Training & development

Referral Program

Job summary

Vail Resorts in the United States is seeking a Lead Base Area Operator to oversee cleaning, roads, parking and snow removal, reporting to the BAO Assistant and Manager. The role directs frontline crews, promotes a strong team ethos, and ensures safety and quality in daily operations.

The position emphasizes hands-on leadership, operational planning, and adherence to safety procedures, with housing available. Competitive starting wage applies to a full-time winter seasonal period for 2026/2027.

Qualifications

• Demonstrate core values: Serve Others, Do Right, Drive Value, Do Good, Be Safe, Be Inclusive and Have Fun.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office platforms.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work under pressure; keen eye for detail.
• Problem solver, self-motivated/self-directed; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Required to complete a satisfactory criminal record check.

Responsibilities

• Directly supervise frontline crews including orientation, training, conflict resolution, long and short term planning of operation, maintenance of tools and equipment, daily meetings, and regular one‑on‑ones with Lead Hands.
• Provide leadership, promote team spirit and cooperative work ethics, and model outstanding guest and staff relationships.
• Show initiative in handling routine matters and exercising quick, thoughtful judgment in emergency situations.
• Understand and safely operate all aspects of cleaning, roads & parking and snow clearing operations.
• Work effectively with other department’s mountain-wide teams as part of a large and diverse group.
• Relay work orders, respond to complaints, adhere to preventative maintenance programs and monitor quality of cleaning, reporting to higher management.
• Assist with organizing waste/recycling depots and bear‑proof bins.
• Ensure proper and complete documentation of all frontline duties performed, reporting any personal incidents or damage involving a company vehicle/equipment to department managers.
• Ensure adherence to all operational and safety procedures, providing a safe environment for guests and staff.
• Assist with selection, training, and development of staff, exceeding present standards.
• Understand operational procedures and maintenance for all janitorial equipment.
• Set an excellent example and strive to improve safety, service and job satisfaction.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

Post-secondary education

Job description

Lead Base Area Operator

The Base Area Operations (BAO) Lead role will oversee all aspects of the departmental functions and employees, including cleaning, roads and parking and snow removal. The Lead will report directly to the department Assistant and Manager.

Job Specifications

• Starting Wage: $22.00/hr - $26.88/hr
• Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
• Shift Type: Full Time hours available
• Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age
• Housing Availability: Yes

Employee Benefits

• Free pass(es) for employees plus discounted lift tickets for friends and family, and free ski lessons.
• Additional employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Excellent training and professional development opportunities.
• Referral Program.

Job Responsibilities

• Directly supervise frontline crews including orientation, training, conflict resolution, long and short term planning of operation, maintenance of tools and equipment, daily meetings, and regular one‑on‑ones with Lead Hands.
• Provide leadership, promote team spirit and cooperative work ethics, and model outstanding guest and staff relationships.
• Show initiative in handling routine matters and exercising quick, thoughtful judgment in emergency situations.
• Understand and safely operate all aspects of cleaning, roads & parking and snow clearing operations.
• Work effectively with other department’s mountain-wide teams as part of a large and diverse group.
• Relay work orders, respond to complaints, adhere to preventative maintenance programs and monitor quality of cleaning, reporting to higher management.
• Assist with organizing waste/recycling depots and bear‑proof bins.
• Ensure proper and complete documentation of all frontline duties performed, reporting any personal incidents or damage involving a company vehicle/equipment to department managers.
• Ensure adherence to all operational and safety procedures, providing a safe environment for guests and staff.
• Assist with selection, training, and development of staff, exceeding present standards.
• Understand operational procedures and maintenance for all janitorial equipment.
• Set an excellent example and strive to improve safety, service and job satisfaction.

Job Requirements

• Demonstrate our core values: Serve Others, Do Right, Drive Value, Do Good, Be Safe, Be Inclusive and Have Fun.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office platforms.
• Exceptional organizational skills and ability to work under pressure; keen eye for detail.
• Problem solver, self‑motivated/self‑directed; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Required to complete a satisfactory criminal record check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Post‑secondary education an asset.
• Proven leadership skills, planning ability and vision.
• Previous cleaning experience and employment a strong asset.
• First Aid trained an asset.
• Mental Health First Aid trained an asset.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Vail Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Requisition ID: 516057
Reference Date: 07/17/2026
Job Code Function: Base Area Ops

Applicants may redact personal information such as age, date of birth, or education dates when completing applications.

We follow all federal, state, and local laws including restrictions on child/minor labor. Minors hired into this position will not be asked or permitted to engage in any activities restricted to adult workers.

Expected pay range: $22.00/hr - $26.88/hr. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.