Vail Resorts-posted 15 days ago
$20 - $22/Yr
Full-time • Entry Level
Onsite • Keystone, CO
5,001-10,000 employees
Accommodation

The Driver - Sleigh Ride Operations at Keystone Stables is responsible for the safe operation of horse-drawn sleighs during winter dinner services and guest experiences at the Back Ranch. This position combines extensive draft horse handling with guest service and team leadership. Drivers ensure the health and wellbeing of horses through feeding, watering, and general care, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism when operating sleigh rides in challenging winter conditions. This role also supports stables operations by transporting horses to and from the Back Ranch, assisting with barn and corral maintenance, and working alongside the wrangler team and Back Ranch staff to deliver exceptional guest experiences. Drivers must demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and strong communication skills, while adhering to Keystone's strict driving standards and guest safety procedures.

  • Provide daily horse care including feeding, watering, grooming, and monitoring overall health.
  • Safely transport horses via trailer between the stables and Back Ranch.
  • Harness, hitch, and drive draft horse teams on sleigh rides in compliance with Keystone's driving standards.
  • Deliver the pre-ride guest safety speech and maintain guest safety throughout the ride.
  • Supervise guest loading/unloading, ensuring horses are always under control when guests are near.
  • Safely operate sleighs in varying winter weather and terrain conditions.
  • Respond appropriately to horse behavior with proper verbal cues and safe handling techniques.
  • Support Back Ranch operations by assisting with dinner service, coordinating with the Chef, and engaging with guests to enhance their experience.
  • Maintain clean and organized barns, corrals, sleighs, and tack areas.
  • Uphold strict post-ride procedures including feeding, re-bridling, cleanup, and returning horses safely to the stables.
  • Willingness to learn and grow; all required safety skills will be taught and reinforced.
  • Fluent verbal and written communication skills in English.
  • Ability to lift 50-85 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
  • Comfortable tacking and handling draft horses that stand 6 ft or taller.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and perform physical labor continuously for up to 8 hours.
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience working with horses; 2-3+ years of experience driving draft horses (wagon or sleigh), or extensive work with draft horses and a strong willingness to learn to drive.
  • Strong knowledge of horse care, including basic veterinary care and health monitoring.
  • Proficiency in collaborating across multiple departments, including vehicle maintenance, hospitality, and food & beverage.
  • Ability to work safely and effectively in all weather conditions, including snow, cold, and winter elements.
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Ability to safely drive a truck and trailer with horses.
  • Willingness to operate snowcats or heavy equipment for snow removal, as needed.
  • Physical resilience and capability to work in harsh winter conditions for extended periods of time.
  • 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
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