Snowmaker

Vail Resorts; Crested Butte (CO); On-site; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free employee passes

Free ski lessons

40% retail discounts

Job summary

Vail Resorts is hiring for the winter season, offering a physically demanding Snowmaking position in the Colorado mountains. Starting wage ranges from $20.00 to $23.00 per hour with full-time hours available for Winter Seasonal 2026/2027.

You must be at least 18, possess a valid driver’s license, and be able to lift up to 80 lbs. Responsibilities include operating snowmaking equipment and vehicles, basic maintenance, and creating the best skiing surface for guests in an alpine environment.

Qualifications

• Must be able to lift up to 80 lbs.
• Valid driver’s license with no restrictions.
• Must be able to communicate fluently in English.
• Able to work extended hours outdoors in an alpine environment.
• Minimum age: 18 years.

Responsibilities

• Operate snowmaking equipment safely and efficiently.
• Operate all vehicles, including snowmobiles, safely.
• Perform basic maintenance on snowmaking equipment.
• Contribute to production of snow to create optimal skiing surface for guests.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

English fluency

Physical stamina

Teamwork

Lift heavy

Tools

Hand tools

Job description

Now hiring for winter 2026/27 - Cooks, Drivers, Instructors & more.

Come work and play in the mountains! Whether it’s your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means discovering (or re-discovering!) a passion for the outdoors while building lifelong connections with teammates and guests from around the world.

With 40+ resorts across 3 continents, you can join our team for a season or stay to build a career. From day one, you'll receive some of the highest compensation rates in the industry, free pass(es) along with free ski and snowboard lessons, 40% retail discounts, the chance to grow through Epic Service - our leading training and development experience, and wellness benefits to fuel your success.

Hiring for our seasonal positions occurs on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted until December 15th or until the positions are filled (whichever is first).

• Ski/Mountain Perks! Free passes for employees, employee discounted lift tickets for friends and family AND free ski lessons
• MORE employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Excellent training and professional development
• Referral Program

As a Snowmaker, you will brave the elements and help build out the mountain for the skiing guest. Snowmaking is a physically demanding and exciting job. Work with some of the most fascinating equipment on the mountain and make it snow!

Job Specifications:

• Starting Wage: $20.00/hr -$23.00/hr
• Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
• Shift Type: Full Time hours available
• Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age
• Housing Availability: No

Job Responsibilities:

• Operate all snowmaking equipment in a safe and efficient manner
• Operate all vehicles, including snowmobiles, in a safe and efficient manner
• Perform basic snowmaking equipment maintenance
• Work on the production of snow to create the best skiing surface for our guests.
• Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements:

• Valid driver's license with no restrictions
• Must be able to communicate fluently in English
• Able to lift & carry up to 80 lbs.
• Basic hand tool knowledge and skill
• Able to work extended hours outdoors in an alpine environment

The expected pay range is$20.00/hr -$23.00/hr. This is the pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

In completing this application, and when submitting related documentation, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, and/or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

We follow all federal, state, and local laws including restrictions on child/minor labor. Minors hired into this position will not be asked or permitted to engage in any activities restricted to adult workers.

Vail Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Requisition ID 516875 Reference Date:08/25/2026 Job Code Function:Snowmaking