Snowcat Ski/Board Guide - RETURNING STAFF ONLY Winter 26-27

Alterra Mountain Company; United States; On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Alterra Mountain Resort pass

Employee housing

Discounted onsite childcare

Accrued paid sick leave

401(k) match

Pro deals

Medical benefits & leave

Job summary

Schweitzer Backcountry Adventures’ guides lead full-day backcountry snowcat tours for up to 12 guests, delivering safe, high-quality experiences on Schweitzer Mountain in Idaho. You provide pre-trip briefings, friendly service, and ensure guest safety through expert terrain assessment.

Requirements include Advanced avalanche training or equivalent, CPR, and a valid outfitters license. Weekend availability and ongoing training are required, with a seasonal, part-time schedule and competitive

Qualifications

• Expert downhill skier and snowboarder in all conditions.
• Physical ability to lift 50 lbs+ and work outside in extreme winter environments.
• Careful use of rescue equipment and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-day backcountry snowcat tours for up to 12 guests.
• Provide safety briefings and instruction to guests.
• Assess snowpack, weather and terrain to adjust routes.
• Respond to emergencies and provide first aid when needed.
• Coordinate with guides and support staff for smooth operations.

Skills

Downhill skiing

Snowboarding

Physical stamina

Mechanical knowledge

Outdoor emergency care

Tools

Navigation apps

Scheduling apps

Job description

Seasonal Welcome to Schweitzer—where passionate mountain recreation pros work hard and play harder. Known for our friendly, inclusive culture, we’re growing thoughtfully to enhance mountain access and village life. Join the Schweitzer difference and help shape our future.

Perks

• Free Alterra Mountain Resort pass
• Employee housing
• Discounted onsite childcare
• Accrued paid sick leave
• 401(k) match
• Great discounts and access to pro deals
• Depending on employment status you could qualify for full medical benefits, vacation time, and paid parental leave

Employment Status

Part Time Seasonal Wage Range: $22.00-$30.00 Minimum Age: 18 Background Check Required: Yes

Guides must have a clean criminal history to be licensed.

Driver Verification Required: Yes

Essential Functions and Major Responsibilities

Schweitzer Backcountry Adventures’ (SBA) enthusiastic backcountry snowcat ski/board guides are responsible for safe, full-day downhill skiing/boarding tours outside the boundary lines of Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Schweitzer employs Pisten Bully 400 snowcats with passenger cabins for up to 12 guests to access over 4350 acres of powder bliss! Guides are responsible stewards of Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho Department of Lands, the general public, and other stakeholders delivering peak experiences through safe and top-notch customer service. Evaluate snowpack, weather conditions, and terrain conditions to make informed decisions regarding ongoing safety and daily route selections. Provide clear and concise safety orientation and instruction to guests to include but not limited to backcountry skiing/boarding safety protocol, use of rescue equipment, safe entry/exit of snowcats, selfcare in extreme environments. Select safe and appropriate downhill ski runs based on snow stability, terrain, and group ability for up to 12 guests and 1 tail guide. Be prepared to respond to emergencies, administer first aid, and execute rescue operations if necessary. Provide exceptional customer service, including pre-trip briefings, answering questions, and fostering a positive and engaging experiences for all participants. Work closely with other guides and support staff to ensure smooth operations and effective communication throughout the day. Support marketing department with gaining media shots throughout the day. Adhere to company policies, industry regulations, and best practices in all aspects of the job. Works in conditions that involve exposure to unusual elements and extreme temperatures.

Secondary Responsibilities

Shovel snow around upper lodge location. Provide basic diagnosis and repair of minor snowcat and snowmobile defects while communicating with manager and Shop Maintenance personnel for immediate resolution. Provides backup support for other SBA tours in the field. Other duties as assigned.

Availability to work weekends, holidays, and varying shifts depending on operational needs. Ongoing, paid trainings throughout season to maintain skills.

Specific Job Skills

• License/Certifications- Recreation Level 1 Avalanche Training or similar w/24hr of training and 50% in the field, and Avalanche Rescue or similar with 8 hrs of training (5hrs in the field). Current Outdoor Emergency Care or Wilderness First Responder/Aid or similar medical training, and current CPR. Holds or is eligible to apply for Idaho Outfitters and Guides License as Ski Guide.
• Technical- Expert downhill skier, snowboarder in all conditions. Technologically proficient with navigation, communication, and scheduling applications. Mechanical know-how is a bonus.
• Physical Capabilities- The ability to lift 50lbs+, shovel snow, be outside in extreme winter environments for extended periods of time.
• Additional- Knowledge of local history a bonus

Considered by many as the best skiing in Idaho and the best family-friendly resort in the Pacific Northwest, Schweitzer ranks as one of the nation’s top winter destinations with 2,900 acres of incredible terrain thanks to two massive bowls and renowned tree skiing. Located in the rugged Selkirk Mountains of the northern Idaho panhandle, and only 80 miles from Spokane, WA, Schweitzer overlooks the town of Sandpoint, ID and offers breathtaking views of three states, Canada and the impressive Lake Pend Oreille.

E-Verify Participation Right to Work