Lift Operations Manager
About The Position
The Lift Operations Manager provides strategic leadership and oversight for all Solitude lift operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and guest-focused service year-round. This role leads and develops a team that includes a Lift Supervisor, Lift Leads, and Lift Operators and is accountable for fostering a culture of safety, accountability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. As a department leader, the Lift Operations Manager is expected to model Solitude's values and leadership competencies, cultivate a positive and engaged team culture, and build a pipeline of high-performing team members and future leaders. This role ensures the consistent application of people practices, including talent selection, onboarding, development, performance management, recognition, and accountability, while establishing and monitoring departmental goals and driving operational excellence. Working closely with the Lift Operations Director and Lift Maintenance Manager, this position ensures consistent training, reliable lift performance, and the successful achievement of departmental and resort-wide objectives.
Requirements
- Strong knowledge of ski resort operations, lift systems, and operational procedures.
- Proven ability to lead through sound decision-making, effective communication, collaboration, and a commitment to exceptional guest service.
- Ability to accurately complete documentation and provide clear direction to staff, management, and cross-functional teams.
- Previous supervisory or management experience leading large seasonal teams.
- Self-motivated, dependable, and able to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, stand for extended periods, and safely lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to safely operate lift-related maintenance equipment, snowmobiles, and company vehicles.
- Ability to ski or snowboard to all lifts on the mountain.
- Flexibility to work varying schedules, including early mornings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as needed.
- Must provide personal outdoor and ski/snowboard equipment.
Nice To Haves
- 3+ years of progressive leadership experience in Lift Operations, Mountain Operations, or a related resort operations environment.
- Advanced knowledge of aerial lift operations, risk management, and industry safety standards.
- Proficiency with scheduling, payroll, and workforce management systems – Workday preferred.
Responsibilities
- Lead, develop, and manage the Lift Operations team comprised of Lift Ops Supervisor, Lift Ops Leads, and Lift Operator talent.
- Lead by example in demonstrating and reinforcing company values, fostering a positive team culture.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, professionalism, and exceptional guest service.
- Own hiring, training, coaching, performance management, corrective action, and other management processes.
- Plan and oversee staffing, scheduling, payroll, and departmental budgets to ensure efficient operations and resource allocation.
- Establish, deliver, and document operational and safety training programs in partnership with resort leadership.
- Conduct daily team meetings, communicate operational priorities, and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, operating standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate effectively with resort departments to support daily operations and achieve organizational objectives.
- Oversee lift operating areas, including loading and unloading zones, mazes, signage, equipment, and facilities, ensuring a safe and efficient guest experience.
- Manage operational documentation, including lift logs, incident reports, training records, and performance evaluations.
- Monitor departmental performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement solutions to enhance safety, efficiency, and service quality.
- Provide operational support during lift startups, avalanche mitigation periods, special events, and other critical resort operations.
- Perform frontline operational duties as needed and other responsibilities as assigned.
- Lead and oversee summer lift operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and guest-focused service delivery.
- Oversee the maintenance, organization, and readiness of lift operations equipment, signage, tools, and work areas.
- Evaluate seasonal performance and partner with the Lift Operations Director to refine training programs, operational goals, and department objectives for future seasons.
- Support summer operational projects and initiatives that advance departmental and organizational goals.
Benefits
- Access to select Alterra Mountain Company Destinations.
- Free Solitude season pass for you and eligible dependents.
- Discounts on solitude lift tickets for friends and family.
- Discounts on food, rentals, retail, and lessons.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance for eligible employees
- Pro deals with outdoor brands.
- Generous 401(k) plan with company match.
- Free counseling service through Employee Assistance Program.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
