Snowcat Operator

Description

Join the Team: Winter Snowcat Operator

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area — Boise National Forest, ID | Seasonal (Mid-October–Mid-May)

The Winter Snowcat Operator is responsible for the safe execution of grooming and trail maintenance at Bogus Basin, ensuring slopes and trails are maintained to the highest quality and safety standards.

Why Bogus Basin?

Where Mountain Life Meets City Living:

Work at a four-season mountain recreation area while living just 16 miles from Boise, enjoying all the amenities of a vibrant, thriving city.

Mission-Driven, Community-Focused:

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Bogus Basin is committed to providing accessible, affordable outdoor recreation year-round. Employees contribute directly to a mission that benefits the community and the mountain.

Hands-On Mountain Operations:

Gain hands-on experience operating snowcats and maintaining slopes while helping deliver the ultimate guest experience.

How You’ll Make a Difference

As a Winter Snowcat Operator, you’ll ensure trails are safe, smooth, and ready for guests, directly shaping the quality of their on-mountain experience.

A Day in the Life

You’ll start your shift prepping equipment and coordinating with the Nordic Center staff. Throughout your shift, you’ll groom slopes and trails, monitor conditions, and collaborate with mechanics on maintenance needs. At the end of your shift, you’ll clean your snowcat, update condition boards, and communicate trail details to staff.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience

• Maintain a professional, positive attitude toward guests and fellow staff.
• Provide accurate trail condition updates to staff and support a safe, enjoyable guest experience.

Operational Support

• Groom slopes and trails with an emphasis on quality and safety.
• Clean and maintain snowcats; report equipment conditions to appropriate staff.
• Work with mechanics on repairs and maintenance.
• Follow recommended operating procedures and service schedules.
• Promote safety by following safe practices and reporting unsafe conditions.
• Assist in mountain rescue efforts if necessary.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

What You Bring

• Passion for Bogus Basin’s mission and commitment to safety.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Ability to frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds, occasionally up to 100 pounds, and occasionally lift up to 35 pounds above shoulder level.
• Ability to operate and maintain heavy machinery safely.
• Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Physical ability to perform tasks outdoors in variable weather conditions.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, holidays, and changing schedules.
• Previous snowcat or heavy equipment experience preferred (training may be provided).

Working Conditions

• Majority of time spent outdoors in inclement weather and variable snow conditions.
• Extended periods operating heavy machinery during overnight or early morning shifts.
• Seasonal, full-time role requiring flexible scheduling.

Personal Appearance

• Maintain a professional appearance when representing Bogus Basin.
• Proper cold-weather gear and personal protective equipment required.

Be Part of Something Bigger

Join the Bogus Basin team and help create safe, memorable mountain experiences by delivering top-quality slopes and trails for our guests.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Bogus Basin provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 

Application assistance available upon request.