Snowmaking Lead

MOUNTAIN CAPITAL PARTNERS•FLAGSTAFF, AZ

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Snowmaking Shift Lead is a critical on-hill leadership role responsible for directing the crew and driving safe, efficient, high-quality snow production across the mountain. This role coordinates workloads, responds to changing weather conditions, and communicates closely with Grooming, Lift Operations, and other departments to keep the mountain running. When the snowmaking supervisor is not on shift, the shift lead is in charge, owning all production decisions, crew management, and safety enforcement, with a direct line to the snowmaking manager when situations require escalation.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
High school diploma or equivalent
2–4 years of on-hill snowmaking experience with demonstrated competence
1–2 years of hands-on knowledge of pump operations and automated systems
Ability to ski or snowboard in all terrain types; must pass an on-hill ski/snowboard evaluation
Must pass written and driving tests for snowmobiles, ATVs, UTVs, tracked UTVs, and snowcats
Intermediate mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose and troubleshoot minor and major equipment malfunctions
Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to make independent operational decisions under pressure
Knowledge of environmental and energy-efficient snowmaking practices
Ability to work 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays; longer shifts may be required

Nice To Haves

Prior crew leadership experience in snowmaking or mountain operations
Snowcat or heavy equipment operating experience
Technical training or certifications in mountain operations or equipment maintenance
Familiarity with high-altitude work environments
CPR/First Aid certification

Responsibilities

Lead and supervise the snowmaking crew during assigned shifts, ensuring safe and efficient operations in line with resort standards
Assume full operational authority on the hill in the absence of the Snowmaking supervisor, making independent production decisions, managing crew priorities, and maintaining continuity for the duration of the shift
Contact the Snowmaking Manager directly for situations that exceed shift-level authority, including major equipment failures, safety incidents, or personnel issues
Monitor and operate SmartSnow 7 and automated/manual snowmaking systems to produce consistent, high-quality snow
Interpret wet-bulb temperature, humidity, and wind conditions in real time to adjust snowmaking strategy and maximize output
Plan, set up, relocate, monitor, and shut down snow guns and equipment based on terrain and weather needs
Maintain full knowledge of the mountain's snowmaking system layout: pumphouses, hydrants, valves, electrical boxes, and terrain
Conduct routine inspections and maintenance on all snowmaking equipment and systems
Monitor and maintain gun run conditions, including ice buildup, hose clearance, and proper padding
Lead vehicle checkouts at the start of each shift; log and coordinate any issues with Arizona Snowbowl mechanics
Operate snowmobiles, UTVs, tracked UTVs, and snowcats per Arizona Snowbowl operating manuals
Enforce all safety protocols, including PPE, Lockout/Tagout compliance, and proper equipment handling
Prevent damage to natural and resort features, including trees, lifts, buildings, and sensitive terrain
Train and mentor Snowmaker IIs and Snowmaker Is on production techniques, safety procedures, and resort protocols
Lead shift handoffs, communicating production status, equipment conditions, terrain priorities, and outstanding issues to the incoming crew
Collaborate with Grooming, Lift Operations, Terrain Parks, and Ski Patrol to maintain safe and effective mountain operations
Promote responsible use of water, electricity, and fuel in line with resort sustainability goals
Record time in Paycom at the start and end of every shift, verify entries daily, and confirm your timecard at the close of each pay period
Other duties as assigned.