Experienced Terrain Park Snowcat Operator

Vail Resorts•Truckee, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability 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 skills.
Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as operational needs require.
Commitment to safety, quality, and guest experience.
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.

Nice To Haves

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 principles.
GPS-equipped grooming system experience.
Knowledge of snowmaking and mountain operations.

Responsibilities

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
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
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.
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.