Rikert Trail & Surface Operation Lead (S01441)

Middlebury Snowbowl; Middlebury (VT); On-site; USD 29,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Middlebury College seeks a seasonal, full-time Rikert operations support role focused on grooming and snowmaking. You will assist in staffing, scheduling, and training, and lead start-up and shutdown of snowmaking systems to ensure safe, high-quality surfaces for skiing.

You will coordinate with Snowbowl teams, coaches, and volunteers, oversee equipment and water usage, and contribute to trail maintenance and reporting. Prior ski-area experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience in snowmaking and grooming required or highly skilled.
• Staff management experience with scheduling and training preferred.
• Proficient Nordic skiing ability or knowledge is expected.
• 3–5 years of ski area experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Rikert Manager with oversight of in-season operations, including snowmaking and grooming staff scheduling and training.
• Lead grooming and snowmaking operations, starting up and shutting down systems.
• Oversee equipment needs and maintenance with mechanics and the Rikert Manager.
• Manage water usage for snowmaking and perform trail maintenance as needed.
• Coordinate with coaches, race officials, and volunteers for events.

Skills

Snowmaking & grooming

Staff management

Nordic skiing knowledge

Customer service

Ski area experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

College degree preferred

Tools

Snowmaking equipment

Job description

Assists the Rikert Manager in all areas of grooming, snowmaking, and trail maintenance operations, planning, and staffing. Provides direct oversight of all Rikert surfaces which focuses on snowmaking and grooming strategies, while ensuring thoughtful delivery and transparent communication with Ski Patrol, Ski Teams and clubs.

The minimum starting rate for the position is $25.20 per hour. This is a full-time, seasonal (non benefited) position that will work 40 hours per week during peak season at Rikert. Expected months of work will be November through March.

Core Responsibilities:

• Assists Manager with oversight of in season Rikert operations, specifically in snowmaking and grooming, and scheduling and training snowmaking and grooming staff
• Serves as the lead in grooming and snowmaking, including overseeing the start up and shutdown of snowmaking systems.
• Oversees equipment needs and maintenance and works directly with Snowbowl mechanics and Rikert Manager.
• Oversees water usage for snowmaking.
• Performs other trail maintenance activities as necessary, including but not limited to, snow removal, construction projects, trail mowing, and trail cleanup.
• Provides information for trail reports and assists in developing and implementing strategies for safe skiing.
• Coordinates with coaches, race officials, and volunteers surrounding events to prepare surface and courses.
• Assists in other areas of operation as needed.

• High school diploma or equivalent is required / college degree preferred.
• Highly experienced and skilled in snowmaking and grooming.
• Experience in staff management, and able to provide a high level of customer service.
• Proficient Nordic skiing ability or knowledge.
• 3-5 years of employment at a ski area strongly preferred.
• Experience putting on community and sanctioned ski races preferred.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions:

• Willing to work flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, evening shifts, and occasional overtime.
• The ability to work in outdoor environment, including exposure to cold temperatures, snow, and inclement weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry 50lbs or more. Must be able to stand, walk, and move around on uneven terrain for extended periods.
• Criminal Background Check.

As an employee of Middlebury College, you will enjoy being part of a vibrant supportive community.

Middlebury College is an equal-opportunity employer where diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values. To this end, the College recruits talented and diverse faculty, staff, and students from across the United States and around the world. Middlebury College encourages applications from women, people of color, people with disabilities, and members of other protected classes and historically underrepresented communities. The College also invites applications from individuals who demonstrate an ongoing commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.