Snowmaker

City of Streamboat Strings; Steamboat Springs (CO); On-site; USD 34,000 - 43,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift differential for overnight shift

End of season bonus option

Steamboat Resort Merchant Pass

Real Deal ski access

Job summary

City of Steamboat Springs is seeking a seasonal Snowmaking Worker to operate, set up, and maintain snowmaking equipment at Howelsen Hill Ski Area. The role involves cold-weather outdoor labor, night shifts, and weekend work, with up to 40 hours weekly and variable schedule.

Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED and the ability to perform heavy physical work in extreme conditions. This position offers a shift differential for overnight hours and potential bonuses.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent hands-on experience in outdoor manual labor.
• Experience in winter resort operations or outdoor manual labor is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operates, adjusts, and moves snowmaking equipment across Howelsen Hill.
• Monitors weather conditions to optimize snow quality and production efficiency.
• Connects, disconnects, and lays out heavy high-pressure hoses and cables on steep terrain.
• Performs manual shoveling and snow removal around hydrants, pump houses, lifts, and operational areas.
• Completes daily logs tracking snow production, weather readings, and equipment status.
• Adheres to safety policies and wears PPE.
• Works flexible schedules, including overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays during snowmaking operations.

Skills

Mechanical knowledge

Hand tools

Outdoor winter safety

Night shift capability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Snowmaking equipment

High-pressure hoses

Heavy hoses and cables

Snowmobiles/ATVs

Radios

Job description

This is a seasonal position. Hours are variable up to 40 per week depending on department need.

Job Description:

Performs a variety of semi-skilled and physical work in the operation, setup, and maintenance of snowmaking equipment, high-pressure water and air lines, and pumps to ensure optimal snow production for Howelsen Hill Ski Area.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of Howelsen Ski and Rodeo Complex Supervisor

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serves as an ambassador of the City of Steamboat Springs and upholds City values of Service, Teamwork, Integrity, Well-being, Respect and Compassion, while espousing safety at all times.

• Operates, adjusts, and moves snowmaking equipment, including fan guns, lance guns, high-pressure water hoses, and air lines safely and efficiently across Howelsen Hill.

• Monitors weather conditions (temperature, humidity, wind) to optimize snow quality and production efficiency.

• Connects, disconnects, and lays out heavy high-pressure hoses and cables on steep, icy terrain.

• Performs manual shoveling and snow removal around hydrants, pump houses, lifts, and operational areas.

• Completes daily logs tracking snow production, weather readings, and equipment status.

• Adheres to all safety policies and procedures, wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Works flexible schedules, including overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays during snowmaking operations.

PERIPHERAL DUTIES

Assists with basic grounds, facilities, or winter operations maintenance as assigned.

WORK TYPE AND SCHEDULE

Seasonal employment with daytime, nighttime and weekend work availability

PERKS

• A $1/hour shift differential will be added when working overnight shifts
• Employees who want to remain on after the snowmaking season by transferring into a Howelsen Hill Mountain Operations position and stay employed until the end of the ski season are eligible for one (1) of two (2) bonus potentials: 1. $1.50/hour end of season bonus based on total hours worked OR 2. Employees who regularly work more than 20 hours weekly may select a Steamboat Resort Merchant Pass paid for by the City of Steamboat Springs in lieu of option one (1).
• All Employees of Howelsen Hill will be eligible to participate in the Real Deal, allowing employees to ski at most ski areas in CO.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent; or

• Any equivalent combination of education and relevant hands‑on experience in outdoor manual labor or winter resort operations.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of: Basic mechanical principles, hand and power tools, and outdoor winter safety practices.

• Ability to: Perform heavy physical work under extreme cold weather conditions; navigate steep, slippery terrain safely; follow written and verbal instructions; and work effectively during night shifts as part of a team.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Snowmaking guns (fan and lance), high‑pressure water and air hoses, hydrants, control valves, snowmobiles/ATVs, hand tools, shovels, radios, and winter protective gear.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Frequently required to stand, walk, hike steep mountain terrain, reach, handle tools, and perform heavy manual labor in freezing conditions. Must regularly lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift up to 100 pounds with assistance.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed outdoors in extreme cold, snow, ice, wind, and nighttime conditions. Requires working around high‑pressure lines and machinery with moderate to loud noise levels.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview, and reference check.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

If you like serving in a role that will directly and positively impact our great community, you’ll enjoy your career with us!

Pay Range:

$25.36 - $30.83

Offers will be negotiated based on each candidate’s qualifications.