Snowcat Operator - Trail Groomer

T-Lazy-7 Ranch; Aspen (CO); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

T-Lazy-7 Ranch in Aspen seeks an experienced Snowcat operator to maintain snowmobile and cross-country trails, ensuring safe and smooth winter rides.

You will operate grooming equipment, perform routine maintenance, log activity, and coordinate with the team to meet grooming schedules while complying with safety rules. Night, weekend, and holiday shifts are possible in this rugged mountain environment.

Qualifications

• Experience operating snowcat grooming equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in winter conditions.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and routine maintenance skills.

Responsibilities

• Daily grooming and grading of trails.
• Follow grooming routes for consistent snow quality and safety.
• Monitor trail conditions and adjust techniques for weather/terrain.
• Inspect vehicles and report issues to maintenance.
• Maintain logs of usage, hours, and maintenance actions.
• Collaborate with operations staff to meet schedules.
• Assist with snow removal operations as needed.
• Adhere to safety procedures and environmental regulations.

Skills

Snowcat operation

Trail grooming

Mechanical aptitude

Teamwork

Outdoor work

Night shifts

Job description

T-Lazy-7 Ranch is family-owned and operated for 85 years, and our snowmobile tours are in high-demand, attracting Aspen’s elite clientele. Nestled in Aspen’s Maroon Creek Valley, under the watchful gaze of the 14,000 ft. Pyramid Peak, T-Lazy-7 Ranch is just minutes by car from town and minutes by snowmobile to the Maroon Bells, one of North America’s most photographed mountain peaks.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Snowcat operator of grooming equipment to maintain snowmobile trails, cross-country ski trails, ensuring safe and smooth riding conditions.

Duties

• Daily grooming and grading of trails
• Follow designated grooming routes and patterns to ensure consistent snow quality and trail safety.
• Monitor trail conditions and adjust grooming techniques for weather, temperature, and terrain changes as needed.
• Perform routine inspection and basic maintenance basic equipment checks; checking lines, cleats, belts and fluids daily, reporting any issues to maintenance team.
• Maintain accurate logs of vehicle usage, grooming hours, and maintenance activities.\
• Work collaboratively with operations staff, supervisors, and other operators to meet grooming schedules and safety standards.
• Assist with ranch snow removal operations as needed.
• Comply with all safety procedures, operational guidelines, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, commercial or heavy equipment licensing a plus.
• Experience with specifically snowcat groomers, is required (training to be provided for specific requirements).
• Able to work outdoors in winter weather.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with vehicle maintenance.
• Excellent communication and ability to work with a team.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, holidays, and variable shifts as required by grooming schedule.

Preferred Skills

• Proficient in operating and maneuvering snowcat vehicles over varied terrain.
• Attentive to detail in grooming patterns and trail quality.
• Ability to assess snow conditions and adapt techniques accordingly.
• Problem-solving skills for handling mechanical or operational issues.
• Commitment to safety and adherence to operational protocols.
• Physical stamina for long hours and demanding outdoor work.

Working Conditions

• Snowcat Operators typically work in cold, snowy, and mountainous environments. The job often requires late evening or early morning shifts and may involve working alone or as part of a team.
• Competitive wage. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and employer.