Snow Grooming Assistant Manager - Lead & Develop Ski Ops

Vail Resorts; Mount Crested Butte (CO); On-site; USD 40,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ski passes

Discounted lift tickets

Free ski lessons

Discounts on lodging, food, gear

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Training and development

Referral Program

Job summary

Vail Resorts in Colorado is hiring for the winter season 2026/27 as Snow Grooming Assistant Manager, supporting the Snow Grooming Manager in daily leadership and operation of the mountain grooming department. You will supervise grooming staff, coordinate fleet maintenance, plan nightly and daytime grooming, and ensure safety and high-quality trail conditions.

The role requires advanced snowcat operations, strong communication, and the ability to work overnight and weekends.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3-5 years of snow grooming experience.
• 1-2 years of leadership or supervisory experience.
• Advanced proficiency operating snowcats in varied terrain and snow conditions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work overnight, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts as operational needs require.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and make sound decisions under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, hire, onboard, training, and evaluate snow grooming staff.
• Provide direct supervision and leadership to grooming operators and shift leads.
• Schedule employees to ensure adequate staffing for all grooming operations.
• Conduct shift briefings and communicate operational priorities.
• Promote a positive team culture focused on safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
• Assist with employee coaching, performance management, and professional development.
• Serve as Manager-on-Duty for the grooming department in the Grooming Manager's absence.
• Assist in planning and executing nightly and daytime grooming plans.
• Monitor trail conditions and adjust grooming strategies based on weather and traffic.
• Coordinate grooming activities with Mountain Operations, Ski Patrol, Snowmaking, Lift Operations, Terrain Park, and Events teams.
• Ensure trails and grooming areas meet established quality standards.
• Participate in snowcat operations as needed.
• Monitor GPS and fleet systems to optimize productivity.

Skills

Snow grooming experience

Leadership experience

Snowcat operation

Communication skills

Valid driver's license

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Vail Resorts in Colorado is hiring for the winter season 2026/27 as Snow Grooming Assistant Manager, supporting the Snow Grooming Manager in daily leadership and operation of the mountain grooming department. You will supervise grooming staff, coordinate fleet maintenance, plan nightly and daytime grooming, and ensure safety and high-quality trail conditions.

The role requires advanced snowcat operations, strong communication, and the ability to work overnight and weekends.