Snowmaker - Giants Ridge

guestservices; Biwabik (MN); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free employee passes

Family discounts

Discounts on food and apparel

Flexible scheduling

Job summary

Giants Ridge, managed by Guest Services, is seeking Snowmaker I to support snowmaking operations and produce quality man-made snow for the mountain. This entry-level role involves outdoor work, overnight potential, and collaboration with experienced staff to operate and move snowmaking equipment safely.

You’ll assist with setup, monitoring, and startup/shutdown of snowmaking systems, while adhering to safety procedures and working as part of a team in varying winter conditions.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• Valid Class D driver’s license may be required.
• Learn ski area and snowmaking system layouts.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude preferred.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Operates snowmaking equipment including snow guns, hoses, hydrants, valves, and related components.
• Assists with setup, movement, installation, and removal of snowmaking equipment across varying terrain.
• Performs routine inspections of equipment and reports maintenance or safety concerns.
• Monitors snow quality and production and makes basic adjustments.
• Assists with startup/shutdown and winter operation of snowmaking systems.
• Maintains safe work areas and follows safety procedures.
• Participates in shift meetings and communicates concerns to supervisors.
• Assists with fueling, housekeeping, and snowmaking support activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

High school diploma

18 years old

Valid Class D license

Learn ski area layouts

Follow written/verbal instructions

Basic mechanical aptitude

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Job description

Compensation Amount:

17.00 USD Hourly

Job Summary:

Snowmaker I is an entry-level position responsible for supporting snowmaking operations to produce quality man-made snow for the mountain. Working under the direction of experienced snowmaking staff and supervisors, this position assists with the operation, setup, monitoring, and movement of snowmaking equipment to ensure safe and efficient snow production. Duties are performed outdoors in varying weather conditions, including overnight shifts.

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Operates snowmaking equipment including snow guns, hoses, hydrants, valves, and related components.
• Assists with the setup, movement, installation, and removal of snowmaking equipment across varying terrain.
• Performs routine inspections of snowmaking equipment and reports maintenance and safety concerns to supervisors.
• Monitors snow quality and production under the direction of experienced staff and make basic adjustments as instructed.
• Assists with startup, shutdown, and winter operation of snowmaking systems.
• Mentains safe work areas and follows all company safety procedures.
• Participates in shift meetings and communicates operational concerns to supervisors.
• Assists with fueling, housekeeping, and snowmaking support activities as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• Most possess a valid Class D driver's license.
• Ability to learn ski area and snowmaking system layouts.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude preferred.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to perform physically demanding work in winter conditions.
• Ability to work extended hours, overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to walk, hike, climb, and balance on uneven and snow-covered terrain.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to safely operate snowmobiles and ATVs/UTVs after training.
• Ability to work in extreme cold, wind, and adverse weather conditions.

EQUIPMENT USED

• Snow Guns
• Hoses and Hydrants
• Snowmaking Valves and Controls
• Snowmobiles
• ATVs/UTVs
• Hand Tools
• Two-way Radio

Love winter? Love working outdoors? Come join the team that makes the magic happen!

Giants Ridge, managed by Guest Services, is looking for Snowmakers to help us create the snow that keeps our slopes in top condition all season long. This role is physically active, adventurous, and perfect for anyone who wants to be part of the action behind the scenes.

You’ll work with snow guns, hoses, and other snowmaking equipment to cover our alpine terrain with a quality base - and you’ll get to do it as part of a hardworking, fun-loving team. Snowmaking is weather dependent and can include overnight shifts, so it’s a great fit if you enjoy crisp winter nights under the stars.

Best of all? Once snowmaking wraps up, this can lead to other seasonal opportunities across the resort - from mountain operations to guest services and beyond.

Ready to turn water into winter?

Why Join Giants Ridge?

• Mountain Perks - Enjoy free employee passes and discounts for your family so you can hit the slopes and trails all season long!
• Exclusive Discounts - Save on delicious food, stylish apparel and must-have accessories while working at Giants Ridge.
• Work with Friends - Join a fun, supportive team where every day feels like an adventure.
• Flexible Scheduling - We offer flexible schedules to fit your lifestyle, but some evening, weekend and holiday shifts are required to keep up with the excitement at Giants Ridge.
• And More! - Additional perks and surprises that make Giants Ridge a great place to work!

Giants Ridge is the #1-rated family vacation destination in Minnesota. Located just north of Duluth in the heart of Minnesota's Superior National Forest, Giants Ridge is a four-season, family-oriented resort offering fun and adventure for every level of outdoor enthusiast. Summer features world-class golf and lift-served mountain biking, while winter brings incredible skiing, snowboarding, fat tire biking, and more. Guests and employees alike can enjoy the Pool & Sauna Haus, along with dining, lodging, and a variety of year-round recreational amenities. Employees also have access to discounted lesson opportunities to help them develop new skills and make the most of the Giants Ridge experience. Beyond the resort, the Iron Range region offers abundant outdoor recreation, including lakes and waterways for boating, fishing, and paddling, as well as extensive trail networks for hiking, snowmobiling, and other seasonal activities. Spring and fall provide the perfect transition between seasons, showcasing the natural beauty and outdoor adventures that make the region a great place to live, work, and play.

Founded in 1917, Guest Services has