Snow Surfaces Director

Wasatch Peaks Ranch; Morgan (UT); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Wasatch Peaks Ranch in Utah seeks a Snow Surfaces Director to lead the Snow Surface Department, oversee snowmaking, grooming, and summer trail crews, and coordinate with development on mountain expansion projects.

This senior role requires 8–10 years of ski resort operations experience, strong budgeting skills, OSHA safety expertise, and the ability to manage a diverse team across dynamic mountain environments.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years in Ski Resort Operations.
• Some College or Technical Training in Mechanics, Electrical, or Plumbing preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to work varied schedule including nights/weekends/holidays.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Snowmaking, Grooming and Summer Trail Crew departments.
• Maintain a safe work environment and provide safety training.
• Perform snow removal by mechanical or manual means.
• Operate grooming and snowmaking equipment as needed.
• Manage employee ski/ride policies and designated trails.
• Lead staff meetings and training programs for departments.

Skills

Team leadership

Budgeting

OSHA compliance

Snowmaking

Grooming

Sno-Sat

GIS

Microsoft 365

Staffing

Education

Mechanics training

Electrical training

Plumbing training

Tools

Sno-Sat

Smart Snow

Smart Mountain

GIS

Microsoft 365

Job description

Position Summary

The Snow Surfaces Director will oversee the operations and maintenance of the Snow Surface Department. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, managing snow surface equipment, staffing, scheduling, departmental budgeting, payroll, and other related mountain operations activities. The position will also coordinate with the Development Team on mountain expansion projects.

Core Competencies and Expectations

• Proven ability to develop and lead a high performing team.
• Business management and budgetary expertise.
• Ability to set and record safety and operational protocols including OSHA rules and regulations.
• Detailed experience in SMI snowmaking systems, snowmaking controls, grooming machine use/maintenance.
• Expertise in the operational principles of snowmaking/ grooming and the management of employees operating snowmaking and grooming systems as well as summer maintenance / trail crew.
• Knowledge of equipment maintenance protocols and safety standards; company, manufacturer and governmental requirements.
• Strong technology and software program knowledge, i. e. Sno-Sat, Smart Snow, Smart Mountain, GIS, and Microsoft 365.
• Working knowledge of and ability to use hand and power tools as well as other equipment.
• Knowledge of and ability to perform required role during emergency situations.
• Ability to operate in a dynamic workplace environment including new installations and ski area expansion; flexibility and problem-solving skills required.

Job Duties

• Manage Snowmaking, Grooming and Summer Trail Crew departments.
• Maintain a safe work environment for all Employees and Members including safety training throughout all aspects of the department.
• Perform snow removal by mechanical or manual means.
• Ability and willingness to operate grooming and snowmaking equipment.
• Manage all employee ski/ride policies, i.e., ski code, designated trails, skiing/riding on the clock etc.
• Pleasantly greet, make eye contact, listen and respond appropriately to member needs and or questions, in a timely and positive nature.
• Actively and efficiently manage staff who perform duties in Snowmaking, Grooming, and Trail Crew.
• Manage operating procedures, i.e., equipment procedures, Grooming routes and timing, safety, maintenance, etc.
• Assist with summer maintenance and construction projects across the entire project.
• Assist Mt. Ops Director with equipment procurement: grooming, snowmaking and trail crew equipment.
• Build and manage employee training programs for Grooming, Snowmaking, and Summer Trail Crew.
• Follow and manage all company and departmental policies and procedures i.e., punctuality, attendance, dress, and grooming standards, and all other policies outlined in the employee handbook.
• Help members, guests, and coworkers enjoy their time on the mountain.
• Plan and perform preventive maintenance on snowmaking equipment.
• Organize and attend staff meetings.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

Licenses And Special Requirements

• Valid driver’s license in good standing.
• Willingness to work a varied schedule, including night shifts, weekends and holidays.
• Ability to communicate effectively and write English.

Education And/or Experience

• 8-10 years’ experience in Ski Resort Operations
• Some College or Technical Training in Mechanics, Electrical, or Plumbing preferred.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts
• Regularly exposed to outside weather conditions, including snow, rain, wind and cold/hot temperatures.
• Regularly exposed to wet and/or cold conditions; risk of electrical shock; and vibration.
• Ability to meet and perform the physical requirements and to work effectively in an environment which is typical of this position.
• Frequent lifting, bending, stooping and movement.
• Frequent repetitive motions.
• Continuous standing and walking.
• Use of appropriate personal protective equipment as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.