Experienced Terrain Park Snowcat Operator

Vail Resorts • Truckee, CA

10d • $22 - $28 • 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.

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.

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed