Lead Snow Cat Operator

Vail Resorts; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free employee passes

Friend/family lift ticket discounts

Free ski lessons

40% retail discounts

401(k) retirement plan

Wellness benefits

Training and development

Referral program

Job summary

Vail Resorts in the United States invites applications for a Winter Seasonal Snow Cat Operator. You will operate heavy grooming equipment to maintain resort snow trails and contribute to a safe, enjoyable mountain experience.

Starting wage is $23.75–$26.88 per hour, with full-time hours. Prior grooming experience and a valid driver's license are required; strong English communication and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of snow grooming experience.
• Valid driver's license with no restrictions.
• Must be able to communicate fluently in English.
• Ability to work in small groups or independently.
• Able to sit for extended periods while operating the snowcat; climbs on/off as needed.
• Knowledge in 2-way radio use and various codes.

Responsibilities

• Understand the use, operation, and maintenance of heavy equipment used for snow grooming.
• Operate snow grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain resorts' snow trails and slopes.
• Maintain knowledge of the mountain and safety regulations.
• Perform basic routine inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment to minimize downtime.
• Communicate clearly via 2-way radio.
• Communicate maintenance needs with shop mechanics.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Snow grooming experience

English fluency

Two-way radio usage

Job description

Come work and play in the mountains! Whether it’s your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means discovering (or re-discovering!) a passion for the outdoors while building lifelong connections with teammates and guests from around the world.

With 40+ resorts across 3 continents, you can join our team for a season or stay to build a career. From day one, you'll receive some of the highest compensation rates in the industry, free pass(es) along with free ski and snowboard lessons, 40% retail discounts, the chance to grow through Epic Service - our leading training and development experience, and wellness benefits to fuel your success.

Hiring for our seasonal positions occurs on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted until December 15th or until the positions are filled (whichever is first).

Employee Benefits

• Ski/Mountain Perks! Free passes for employees, employee discounted lift tickets for friends and family AND free ski lessons
• MORE employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Excellent training and professional development
• Referral Program

Service is the foundation of everything we stand for at VailResortsand our Snow Cat Operation team is no exception to creating this experience of a lifetime. Responsible formaintainingthe picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individualsoperatingheavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface for thrill seekers.

Job Specifications

Starting Wage: $23.75/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

Job Responsibilities

• Understand the use, operation, and maintenance of heavy equipment used for snow/slope grooming
• Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, tomaintainthe appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible.
• Maintain a general knowledge of the mountain and adhere to safety regulations
• Perform basic routine inspections and preventative maintenance, on equipment to minimize downtime
• Communicate clearly and effectively via 2-way radio
• Communicate advanced mechanical problems or maintenance needs with shop mechanics
• Communicate effectively with coworkers and other departments to provide direction,supportandmaintaingood working relationships
• Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements

• 2-4 years of snow grooming experiencerequired
• Valid driver's license with no restrictions
• Must be able to communicate fluently in English
• Ability to work in small groups as well as independently
• Able to sit for extended periods of time whileoperatingthe snowcat as well as climb on and off frequently
• Knowledge in 2-way radio use and various codes

The expected pay range is$23.75/hr - $26.88/hr. This is the pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

In completing this application, and when submitting related documentation, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, and/or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

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.

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.