Snowcat Operator

Powder Mountain; Town of Eden (WI); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shuttle from Eden Park & Ride

Job summary

Powder Mountain seeks skilled Snow Cat Operators to join the Grooming Department for the winter season. You will safely operate snowcat equipment, groom priority areas, and perform complex tasks for senior roles while using SnowSat to optimize efficiency.

Responsibilities include thorough pre/post checks, basic maintenance, and timely reporting of issues. You will work night shifts in a high-altitude, outdoor environment with strict safety protocols and radio discipline.

Qualifications

• Must complete internal Snowcat Operation Training and annual refreshers.
• Strong spatial awareness and mechanical aptitude.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Shift availability for winter night shifts and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate snowcat equipment and attachments (blade, tiller, tracks, winch).
• Groom designated priority areas including beginner trails and terrain parks.
• Perform complex operations for senior/lead levels (grading, pushing snow piles).
• Use SnowSat and other grooming tech to optimize efficiency.
• Conduct pre/post operation checks and basic maintenance; log reports.
• Report mechanical issues promptly to mechanics/supervisors.
• Maintain constant radio communication with dispatch and team.
• Follow avalanche safety protocols and coordinate with Snow Safety.

Skills

Snowcat operation

Safety awareness

Radio communication

Teamwork

Mechanical aptitude

Education

Snowcat Operation Training

Pistenbully/Pro Academy Groomer Level I

Tools

SnowSat

Winch operations

Job description

Powder Mountain is seeking dedicated and safety-conscious Snowcat Operators (Levels I, II, and III) to join our Grooming Department. The Snowcat Operator is responsible for maintaining high-quality, safe, and consistent snow conditions across ski trails, beginner slopes, terrain parks, and resort infrastructure.Job Title: Snow Cat OperatorDepartment: GroomingStatus: Seasonal FTReporting To: Slopes Manager and Grooming SupervisorsShifts: Swing Shift (4:00 PM – 11:30 PM) & Graveyard Shift (11:00 PM – 9:00 AM)Key Responsibilities:Operational & Grooming DutiesSafely operate snowcat equipment and attachments (blade, tiller, tracks, winch) under varying weather and terrain conditions.Groom designated priority areas, including beginner trails, high-traffic intermediate runs, terrain parks, lodge areas, and residential loops.Perform complex operations (for senior/lead levels) such as grading mazes, pushing snow piles, shaping terrain park features, and maintaining ramp heights.Utilize grooming technologies like SnowSat to optimize efficiency and snow management.Inspections & Equipment MaintenancePerform thorough pre-operation and post-operation equipment checks (fuel, DEF, hydraulic fluid, coolant, oil levels, lights, backup alarms, track tension).Conduct basic routine maintenance including greasing, cleaning machines inside and out, and logging maintenance/shift reports.Promptly report mechanical issues, fluid leaks, or equipment damage to mechanics and supervisors.Safety & CommunicationMaintain constant radio communication with dispatch and grooming team members.Operate at safe speeds (7 MPH and under) with strict focus on low-visibility, whiteout, and blind-spot safety.Follow strict winch operations protocols, including placing top-of-run safety beacons when winch cables are deployed.Comply with avalanche safety protocols and coordinate with Snow Safety regarding restricted/avalanche control areas.Maintain 3 points of contact when entering/exiting equipment and remain at least 3 feet clear of all structures and obstacles.Requirements and/or Qualifications:Minimum age requirement of 211-2 Years Cat Operation PreferedValid Driver’s LicenseCertifications/Training: Must complete internal Snowcat Operation Training, Pistenbully/Pro Academy Groomer Level I, and annual refreshers (minimum 1-week ride-along required for new operators).Skills: Strong spatial/situational awareness, basic-to-advanced knowledge of mountain terrain and snow conditions (powder, ice), and mechanical aptitude.Communication & Teamwork: Clear communication skills, dependability, accountability, and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.Environmental Responsibility: Commitment to minimizing idling emissions and maintaining a clean work environment.Physical Requirements- Must be able to perform physical activities such as, but not limited to:Full range of body movementsReach, push, pull, lift, and carry objects that may be heavy (40+lbs)Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, bending, and twistingWalk on even/uneven/slippery terrainClimb/descend stairs/laddersManual dexterity to operate manual tools and power equipment on a constant basisSafely handle hazardous materialsLogistics:Shift Availability: Nightly shifts during winter operating months (Swing and Graveyard shifts).Transportation: Company shuttle transportation provided from the Eden Park & Ride (limited seating)Gear: High-visibility gear required at all times; operators provided with radio communication equipment.Working Environment:The work environment is primarily in an outdoor environment. You will be required to get in and out of the snowcats frequently. Work is performed outside consisting of extreme temperatures, loud sounds that may be distracting and in inclement weather (rain, snow, ice) at high altitude (9,000+ feet). This role will see sun and wind exposure on a daily basis. Poor visibility and low light nights are highly likely.Company BackgroundPowder is a year-round resort and real estate development project nestled throughout 12,000 acres in the Wasatch Mountains of Northern Utah. We are striving to be the premier place of being and doing, a destination that fuses outdoor recreation with a cultural and hospitality program that connects visitors with a deeper sense of self and purpose. Our core values come to life in a unique and natural setting of unparalleled beauty.Together we are one team, not an \"us vs. them\" mentality. We are focused on being a progressive employer with pay equity, inclusion, while building diverse teams.