Winch Snowcat Operator
About The Position
Operates winch snowcats and other grooming equipment to build, groom, and maintain ski jumps, steep terrain, and competition surfaces at Howelsen Hill. Performs highly skilled, technical snow grooming tasks in support of Alpine, Nordic, freestyle, and special event operations. This is a seasonal position with variable hours up to 40 per week depending on department need. The final day to apply is 10/02/2026. It's fun and rewarding to work for the City of Steamboat Springs! Our employees are passionate and proud to serve our community with excellence and distinction. Our teams are awesome, and we are committed to our community and the very special place that is Steamboat Springs, Colorado!
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Three (3) years of experience related to grooming and winch cat operations.
- Knowledge of winch cat operation, grooming techniques, and snow feature construction.
- Skill in operating various types of snowcats, particularly in steep terrain and jump construction.
- Ability to operate grooming equipment safely
- Ability to follow written and oral instructions
- Ability to communicate effectively
- Ability to maintain strong working relationships with co-workers, other departments, and the public.
- Valid State of Colorado driver’s license.
Responsibilities
- Serves as an ambassador of the City of Steamboat Springs and upholds City values of Service, Teamwork, Integrity, Well-being, Respect and Compassion, while practicing safety at all times.
- Operates winch snowcats safely and in accordance with Parks & Recreation and City Fleet Department standards.
- Builds, grooms, and maintains all jumps within the ski jump complex, ensuring surfaces meet FIS standards.
- Performs technical grooming on steep terrain including the Face of Howelsen Hill and additional runs as needed.
- Moves and shapes machine-made snow to create skiable surfaces and training features.
- Builds freestyle mogul courses, jumps, and additional snow features for training and competition purposes.
- Operates other snowcats to support Alpine and Nordic grooming tasks when required.
- Works daytime, nighttime, weekend, and holiday shifts to support the operational needs of Howelsen Hill.
- May assist with general mountain operations, snow management, trail preparation, or event support as assigned.
Benefits
- $1.50/hour end-of-season bonus or a Steamboat Resort Merchant Pass for employees averaging 20+ hours weekly (employee choice)
- All Howelsen Hill employees may participate in the Real Deal, allowing skiing at most Colorado ski areas.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
