Assistant Manager: Snowmaking - Hourly

Vail Resorts • Truckee, CA

4d

About The Position

The Assistant Manager, Snowmaking supports the planning, operation, and maintenance of snowmaking systems to ensure safe, efficient, and timely production of quality snow. The role assists with supervising snowmaking staff, managing daily operations, maintaining equipment, and achieving snowmaking objectives that support resort business goals and the guest experience. The Assistant Manager is a key operational leader and acts on behalf of the Snowmaking Manager when needed.

This is a year-round, full-time hourly position. The stated pay range is $25.00 to $35.20 per hour. Housing is available. The position requires work outdoors in extreme winter conditions, including overnight shifts, weekends, holidays, and extended hours during snowmaking operations.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3–5 years of snowmaking experience.
• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to operate snowmobiles, ATVs, and utility vehicles.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work overnight shifts, weekends, holidays, and extended hours during snowmaking operations.
• Ability to work outdoors in extreme winter conditions.
• At least 18 years of age.

Nice To Haves

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in a related technical field.
• Experience managing large-scale automated snowmaking systems.
• Experience with pumps, compressors, electrical systems, PLC controls, and water systems.
• Previous ski resort management or supervisory experience.
• First Aid/CPR certification.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and executing snowmaking strategies to meet terrain opening and snow coverage goals.
• Monitor weather conditions, water availability, and operational data to optimize snow production.
• Coordinate snowmaking activities to maximize efficiency while managing labor, energy, and water resources.
• Monitor system performance and troubleshoot operational issues.
• Support the opening, maintenance, and expansion of snowmaking terrain throughout the season.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, and evaluating snowmaking employees.
• Provide daily direction, coaching, and support to snowmaking crews.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and professional development.
• Ensure employees follow departmental policies, procedures, and operating standards.
• Serve as the department leader during assigned shifts or in the absence of the Snowmaking Manager.
• Assist with preventative maintenance programs for pumps, compressors, hydrants, valves, fan guns, tower guns, and related infrastructure.
• Coordinate repairs and maintenance activities with other resort departments and outside vendors.
• Maintain accurate records of equipment maintenance, repairs, inspections, and inventory.
• Recommend equipment improvements and capital projects to enhance efficiency and reliability.
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and operational procedures.
• Conduct safety training, inspections, and incident reviews.
• Maintain awareness of environmental regulations and water use requirements.
• Promote safe operation of vehicles, snowmobiles, heavy equipment, and snowmaking systems.
• Assist with department budgeting, expense tracking, and operational reporting.
• Maintain labor records, operational logs, and production reports.
• Participate in pre-season planning and post-season evaluations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and operational efficiency projects.

Benefits

• Free employee ski passes.
• Discounted lift tickets for friends and family.
• Free ski lessons.
• Employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Training and professional development.
• Referral program.
• Health, medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible full-time roles; seasonal employees become eligible after working 500 hours.
• Free ski passes for dependents for eligible full-time roles.
• Critical illness and accident plans for eligible full-time roles.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED