Experienced Terrain Park Snowcat Operator
Truckee, CA - USA
Job Summary
Create Your Experience of a Lifetime!
Come work and play in the mountains! Whether its 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 youll 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).
Employee Benefits
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
To Learn More please review the Benefits Eligibility Summary
Job Summary:
The Terrain Park Snowcat Operator is responsible for the construction maintenance and grooming of terrain park features and riding surfaces to provide a safe progressive and high-quality guest experience. This position operates snowcats and specialized grooming equipment to build shape and maintain terrain parks in accordance with resort design standards risk management practices and operational goals. Operators work closely with Terrain Park and Grooming leadership to support daily park operations and maintain feature consistency throughout the season.
Job Specifications:
- Starting Wage:$22.00/hr - $27.70/hr
- Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
- Shift Type: Full Timehours available
- Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age
- Housing Availability: No
Job Responsibilities:
Terrain Park Construction & Maintenance
- Build shape and maintain terrain park features including jumps rails boxes transitions rollers and progression areas
- Execute terrain park build plans and feature layouts as directed by Terrain Park leadership
- Shape and groom jump takeoffs landings knuckles and transition zones to established standards.
- Perform routine touch-ups and snow management to maintain feature integrity and rideability
- Assist with park rebuilds feature moves and seasonal terrain park construction projects
- Maintain feature spacing flow and progression consistent with resort objectives
Equipment Operation
- Safely operate snowcats equipped with tillers blades winches and terrain park attachments.
- Conduct pre-operational and post-operational equipment inspections.
- Monitor equipment condition and promptly report mechanical concerns.
- Maintain accurate grooming logs operator reports and equipment documentation.
- Operate snow grooming equipment on variable terrain snow conditions and weather conditions
Safety & Risk Management
- Ensure all work complies with resort Terrain Park Design and Risk Management standards.
- Identify and report hazards feature deterioration snow condition concerns and operational risks.
- Maintain awareness of guest traffic and mountain operations while working.
- Assist with daily feature inspections and corrective maintenance.
- Follow all company OSHA and resort safety procedures.
Teamwork & Communication
- Collaborate with Terrain Park Managers Supervisors Attendants and Grooming teams.
- Participate in daily operational briefings and planning meetings.
- Communicate feature conditions construction updates and operational challenges effectively.
- Assist with special events competitions photoshoots and training sessions when required.
- Support mountain operations during high-priority snow management projects.
Job Requirements:
- Valid drivers license with an acceptable driving to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively.
- Advanced skiing or snowboarding knowledge with a strong understanding of terrain park design and progression.
- Ability to work independently during overnight shifts.
- Strong communication and problem-solving to work nights weekends holidays and extended hours as operational needs require.
- Commitment to safety quality and guest experience.
Preferred Skills:
- Previous snowcat operating experience.
- Terrain park building and design experience.
- Experience with park construction equipment and specialty attachments.
- Familiarity with SMS Smart Style and terrain park risk management -equipped grooming system experience.
- Knowledge of snowmaking and mountain operations.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit and operate equipment for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to climb into and out of equipment multiple times per shift.
- Ability to shovel rake and perform manual snow maintenance tasks when required.
- Ability to work overnight in winter weather conditions including snow wind and low visibility.
- Ability to maintain focus during long shifts in remote mountain environments.
The expected pay range is$22.00/hr - $27.70/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 517489
Reference Date:09/12/2026
Job Code Function:Grooming
Required Experience:
Senior IC
About Company
Receive $20/hr. starting wage and perks/benefits that allow you to discover a passion for the outdoors. With 40+ resorts, you can join for a season or stay for a career.