Mountain Operations Technician - Giants Ridge

guestservices; Biwabik (MN); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

guestservices is seeking Mountain Operations Technicians to support the mountain area year-round. The role is versatile and cross-trained, covering snowmaking, grooming, trail and grounds maintenance, and equipment operation depending on the season.

Under the Mountain Manager, you will work safely, use good judgment, and perform duties independently in all weather conditions. A valid Class D license and mechanical aptitude are essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Valid Class D driver’s license required.
• Heavy equipment operation experience preferred.
• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.

Responsibilities

• Operate a variety of equipment, vehicles, and machinery to support mountain operations.
• Perform daily pre-operational inspections, safety checks, fueling, and basic maintenance of assigned equipment.
• Maintain records of equipment inspections, maintenance activities, and operational tasks.
• Operate snow grooming equipment to prepare slopes and surfaces.
• Perform snowmaking operations including setup, operation, monitoring, and maintenance.
• Monitor weather and adjust operations accordingly.
• Support seasonal opening/closing procedures for slopes and facilities.
• Communicate effectively with team members and management.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

English proficiency

Independent worker

Team player

Education

High School Diploma/G.E.D.

Job description

Compensation Amount:

19.00 USD Hourly

Job Summary:

Mountain Operations Technicians support the safe and efficient operation of the mountain area throughout the year. This versatile, cross-trained position performs a variety of mountain operations duties, with responsibilities that may include snowmaking, grooming, trail maintenance, grounds maintenance, equipment operation, and special projects depending on the season and operational needs. This position works under the direction of the Mountain Manager and are expected to work safely, exercise sound judgment, and perform assigned duties independently in all weather conditions.

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Operates a variety of equipment, vehicles, and machinery necessary to support mountain operations.
• Performs daily pre-operational inspections, safety checks, fueling, and basic maintenance of assigned equipment.
• Maintains accurate and complete records of equipment inspections, maintenance activities, and operational tasks.
• Operates snow grooming equipment to build, shape, grade, and maintain skiing snowboarding surfaces.
• Performs snowmaking operations, including setup, operation, monitoring, adjustment, maintenance, relocation, and shutdown of snowmaking equipment.
• Monitors weather conditions, snow quality, and snow production and adjusts operations as necessary.
• Assists with transporting, installing, and storing snowmaking equipment and infrastructure.
• Performs trail slope, and grounds maintenance activities including mowing, brushing, trimming, erosion control, vegetation management, and debris removal.
• Operates snowmobiles, ATVs/UTVs, and other equipment in support of daily mountain operations.
• Assist with seasonal opening and closing procedures for ski slopes, trails, lift areas, and mountain facilities.
• Identifies and report equipment deficiencies, safety concerns, operational issues, and unusual circumstances to management.
• Supports special events and mountain projects as assigned.
• Provides quality service to guests and works cooperatively with all departments.
• Communicates effectively with team members, supervisors, and management.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma/G.E.D. equivalent required.
• Must be at least 18 year of age.
• Must possess a valid Class D driver's license.
• Minimum of one year of heavy equipment operation experience preferred.
• Ability to safely operate and maintain a variety of equipment and machinery.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions with limited supervision.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills preferred.
• Snowmaking, grooming, construction, landscaping, or equipment operation experience preferred.
• Ability to work effectively and safely as part of a team in a fast-paced outdoor environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to perform a wide variety of physical activities in an alpine environment, including walking on uneven terrain, climbing, kneeling, squatting, bending, and lifting. Ability to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions and temperature extremes. Ability to work overnights shits, weekends, holidays, and overtimes as operational needs require. Ability to safely operate snowcats, snowmobiles, ATVs/UTVs, and other equipment on various terrain. Ability to lift, carry, and push up to 35 pounds regularly, 50 pounds frequently, and 70 pounds or more occasionally. Ability to enter and exit equipment repeatedly throughout a shift. Skiing or snowboarding ability preferred. Ability to communicate effectively with guests, coworkers, and supervisors. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changing operational needs. Regular and reliable attendance and physical presence at the worksite are essential functions of the position.

EQUIPMENT USED

• Snowcats/Grooming Machines
• Snowmaking Equipment
• Snowmobiles
• Skid Loaders
• Wheel Loaders
• Excavators
• ATVs/UTVs
• Mowers and Brush-Cutting Equipment
• Chainsaws and Power Saws
• Hand and Power Tools

Like working outdoors, operating equipment, and having a job where no two seasons look quite the same? Join our Mountain Operations team and play a hands‑on role in keeping the mountain ready for adventure year-round.

As a Mountain Operations Technician, you'll be part of a versatile, cross‑trained team that tackles everything from snowmaking and grooming in the winter to train and grounds maintenance, equipment operation, and mountain projects throughout the rest of the year. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working with equipment, solving problems, and taking pride in seeing the results of their work across the mountain.

What We're Looking For:

• At least 18 years of age with a valid Class D driver's license.
• Mechanical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills.
• Snowmaking, grooming, constructions, landscaping, or equipment operation experience is a plus.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions