Snow Removal Equipment Operator

Sugar Bowl; Norden (CA); On-site; USD 22,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer sponsored 401k after 1,000+?

Paid sick time

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Free ski passes for employees

Hotel discounts

Job summary

Sugar Bowl Resort seeks motivated Snow Removal Equipment Operators to safely operate plows and related equipment, keeping roads and parking lots clear for guests. Training is provided and experience level determines compensation. You’ll join a team dedicated to opening the mountain early, even on storm days.

This role requires physical stamina, reliable work during weekends/holidays, and a safety-first mindset. Cross-training across departments is encouraged to support resort operations.

Qualifications

• Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to work in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.
• Willing to provide excellent customer service to guests.
• Training and support provided for operators of all experience levels.

Responsibilities

• Operate snow removal equipment safely and efficiently to clear roads and parking lots.
• Follow Sugar Bowl policies and procedures while on shift.
• Work weekends and holidays, especially during snow events.
• Work the graveyard shift during storms to ensure access by morning.
• Cross-train and assist other departments as needed to support resort operations.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Teamwork

Safety-minded

Training provided

Tools

Snow removal equipment

Job description

Sugar Bowl Resort is seeking motivated, safety-minded Snow Removal Equipment Operators to safely and efficiently operate snow removal equipment and keep our roads and parking lots clear, accessible, and ready for guests. Whether you’re new to operating equipment or bring seasons of experience behind a plow, we’ll provide the training and support to help you succeed. When the storms roll in, you’ll be part of the team making sure the mountain is open and ready for business by morning.

Note: Experience level and corresponding compensation will be determined by management based on experience and demonstrated skill.

Why Sugar Bowl?

Sugar Bowl Resort has been proudly independent for over 80 years and is one of the oldest ski resorts in California. Situated atop beautiful Donner Summit, Sugar Bowl has a storied past with ties to Austrian ski culture, Hollywood and Walt Disney. This special community helped bring skiing to “sunny California” since December 1939. Since then, it continues to attract adventurous winter sports enthusiasts alike.

Who You Are

• Previous experience operating snow removal or comparable heavy equipment is helpful; operators at all experience levels are welcome, and training is provided
• Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills
• Able to work in a sometimes high-stress, fast-paced environment
• Works effectively with other departments
• Able to start and complete routine job tasks with limited supervision, or eager to build toward that with training and guidance
• Treats courtesy and safety as top priorities
• Willing and able to provide excellent customer service to all people at all times
• Willing to share your experience and help guide newer operators, or eager to learn from those who do
• Open to learning new skills and supporting other departments as needed — a versatile, team-first mindset

What You’ll do

• Operate snow removal equipment safely and efficiently to clear snow from roads and parking lots, with training and guidance as needed
• Be familiar with and follow Sugar Bowl policies and procedures
• Work weekends and holidays, which are required work days, especially when it is snowing
• Work the graveyard shift during most storms to ensure roads and parking areas are cleared and ready for business in the morning
• Minimize damage to equipment and facilities due to snow removal operations; if damage does occur, alcohol and drug testing procedures must be conducted and disciplinary action will be taken
• Ensure all equipment check-out sheets are completed each shift
• Share experience and help guide newer operators as needed
• Assist other departments when required, such as with parking
• Attend orientation and complete required equipment training
• Cross-train and lend a hand in other departments as needed, building a broader understanding of resort operations.
• Take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills across the resort, supporting a well-rounded, team-first approach to the guest experience.

Physical Requirements

• Sit constantly (6–8+ hours per day) while operating equipment
• Walk and stand frequently (3–6 hours per day)
• Perform frequent bending (neck and waist), squatting, climbing, kneeling, and crawling
• Perform frequent twisting of the neck and waist
• Engage in repetitive hand and arm motions, including simple and power grasping, fine manipulation, pushing, pulling, and reaching above shoulder level
• Frequently lift and carry up to 50 lbs (heights and distances vary), and occasionally lift and carry 51–100+ lbs
• Maintain constant use of sight, hearing, and sense of smell
• Drive and operate snow removal equipment, including plows and blowers, and work around equipment and machinery
• Operate foot controls and vehicle pedals repetitively
• Walk on uneven ground, including snow, ice, and rocks
• Work in all weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and wetness
• Work around equipment noise, using hearing protection as required
• Be exposed to gas, fumes, and liquids used for equipment maintenance

Winter Benefits

• Employer sponsored 401k plan after 1,000 worked hours and one (1) year of service
• Paid sick time
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development opportunities
• Free ski and tubing passes for employees
• Free ski passes for dependents
• 50% off food at our restaurants
• Free group ski and snowboard lessons for employees
• Employee discounted lift tickets for family and friends
• Lift ticket discounts at multiple resorts including 24 Mountain Collective destinations
• Hotel discounts
• Employee ski reciprocal programs