Rikert Trail & Surface Operation Lead (S01441)

Middlebury College; Town of Middlebury (NY); On-site; USD 52,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Seasonal position

Non-benefited

Job summary

Middlebury College seeks a full-time, seasonal Rikert Operations Assistant to support grooming and snowmaking, plan staffing, and coordinate with ski teams and clubs. The role focuses on ensuring quality snow surfaces, water management, and safe skiing through collaboration with coaches and volunteers.

The position runs November through March, 40 hours per week during peak season, with a starting pay of $25.20 per hour. This is a non-benefited seasonal role requiring readiness for outdoor work.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college degree preferred.
• 3-5 years of ski-area employment strongly preferred.
• Experience with community and sanctioned ski races preferred.
• Highly experienced in snowmaking and grooming.
• Experience in staff management and delivering strong customer service.
• Proficient in Nordic skiing knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Assist Manager with oversight of in-season Rikert operations, specifically snowmaking and grooming, and scheduling/training staff.
• Serve as lead in grooming and snowmaking, including startup/shutdown of snowmaking systems.
• Oversee equipment needs and maintenance with Snowbowl mechanics and Rikert Manager.
• Oversee water usage for snowmaking.
• Perform trail maintenance, snow removal, and related construction/cleanup.
• Provide trail reports and help implement safe skiing strategies.
• Coordinate with coaches, race officials, and volunteers for events to prepare surfaces and courses.
• Assist in other areas of operation as needed.
• Willing to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, evenings, and OT.

Skills

Snowmaking

Grooming

Staff management

Customer service

Nordic skiing knowledge

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.

Come join us and be a part of our team!

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.