Specialist Snow Cat Operator

Vail Resorts; Leavenworth (WA); On-site; USD 33,944 - 48,491; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ski/ Mountain Passes (free)

Free ski/snowboard lessons

40% retail discounts

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Excellent training and development

Referral Program

Job summary

Vail Resorts in Washington’s Leavenworth area is hiring for the winter 2026/27 season as an Advanced Groomer. You will create and maintain high-quality snow surfaces across trails and terrain parks, operating grooming machinery and collaborating with multiple departments to ensure optimal snow conditions for guests.

The role requires graveyard shifts, outdoor winter work, and a valid driver’s license. Housing is available, and the team offers strong benefits and opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license with clean record.
• Experience operating heavy machinery (snowcats, tractors, ATVs) preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work graveyard shifts and in harsh winter conditions.

Responsibilities

• Grooming Operations: Operate snowcats and grooming equipment safely and efficiently; execute grooming routes and patterns; use tillers to preserve snow quality; maintain lift load/unload stations.
• Terrain Park Construction: Build and maintain terrain park features; collaborate with Leads to implement grooming plans; assist with special projects.
• Equipment Maintenance: Daily checks and cleaning; report issues; fill grooming logs and shift reports.
• Safety & Communication: Stay aware of hazards; maintain communication with patrol and other departments; follow safety protocols.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Snow grooming equipment

Snowcats

Job description

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

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.

Employee Benefits

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

Job Summary

The Advanced Groomer is responsible for creating and maintaining high‑quality snow surfaces across ski trails and terrain parks. This includes operating grooming machinery, building terrain park features, and collaborating with various departments to ensure optimal snow conditions for guests.

Job Specifications

• Starting wage: $24.64/hr – $35.20/hr
• Employment type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
• Shift type: Full Time; hours available
• Minimum age: 18 years
• Housing: Available

Job Responsibilities

• Grooming Operations
  • Operate snowcats and grooming equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Execute grooming routes and patterns based on terrain layout and operational plans.
  • Use tillers and other attachments to preserve snow quality and create a superior surface.
  • Maintain level load/unload stations at ski lifts.
• Terrain Park Construction
  • Build and maintain terrain park features (jumps, rails, boxes) from start to finish.
  • Collaborate with Terrain Park Leads and Supervisors to implement grooming plans.
  • Assist with special projects and events requiring custom snow features.
• Equipment Maintenance
  • Perform daily checks and cleaning of grooming equipment.
  • Report mechanical issues promptly to Vehicle Maintenance.
  • Fill out grooming logs and shift reports accurately.
• Safety & Communication
  • Stay alert to surroundings including hydrants, trees, lift terminals, and other hazards.
  • Maintain clear communication with ski patrol, snowmaking, and other mountain departments.
  • Follow all safety protocols and company policies (e.g., no smoking/vaping in snowcats).

Job Requirements

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience operating heavy machinery (snowcats, tractors, ATVs) preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work graveyard shifts and in harsh winter conditions.

Working Conditions

• Primarily night shifts in cold, snowy environments.
• Requires appropriate winter gear (boots, gloves, insulated clothing).
• May involve outdoor work and collaboration across departments.

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 515931
Reference Date: 07/14/2026
Job Code Function: Grooming