What are the responsibilities and job description for the Snowcat Operator position at Mt. Baker Ski Area, Inc.?
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Position Summary
The Snowcat Operator is responsible for the safe and effective operation of snowcat equipment to maintain high-quality ski and snowboard surfaces across the mountain. This role requires advanced equipment operation skills, strong situational awareness, and the ability to work independently in dynamic weather and snow conditions typical of the Pacific Northwest.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Snowcat & Equipment Operation
- Operate snowcats and grooming equipment safely and efficiently on varied terrain, including beginner through expert runs
- Perform snow grooming, tilling, and surface preparation to established mountain standards
Safety & Communication
- Maintain constant situational awareness of terrain hazards, weather conditions, and other on-hill operations
- Communicate effectively with grooming team members, supervisors, patrol, and lift operations
- Follow all mountain safety protocols, equipment procedures, and radio communication standards
- Follow safety guidelines as described in the Accident Prevention Plan and as trained.
- Report safety concerns directly to the department manager, Director of Mountain Operations, and General Manager as trained.
- Actively participate in fostering a positive safety culture through words and actions.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Equipment Care & Maintenance
- Conduct pre- and post-shift inspections of snowcats and related equipment
- Perform basic troubleshooting and preventative maintenance as trained
- Accurately document equipment usage, issues, and completed work
- Maintain clean, organized, and fuel-ready equipment at the end of each shift
Starting Wage & Benefits:
- $20-$24/hr, DOE
- Employee skiing/snowboarding privileges
- Medical, Vision, Dental eligible after eligibility period is met
- Mt. Baker Profit Sharing/401k after eligibility is met
- Retail and Food Discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
Requirements:
Qualifications & Experience
Required
- Proven ability to operate snowcats in low visibility, steep terrain, and variable snow conditions
- Valid driver's license without limitation on nighttime driving
- Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in early-morning and remote conditions
Preferred
- Minimum 2 seasons of snowcat or heavy equipment operation experience in a mountain environment
- Experience grooming in high snowfall, wet snow, and mixed precipitation environments
- Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with snowcat maintenance
- Previous experience at a ski area in the Pacific Northwest or similar climate
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to work variable-hour shifts, including very early mornings, in cold, wet, and inclement winter weather
- Ability to maintain clear vision and depth perception in low-light and flat-light conditions, including during snowfall, fog, or reduced visibility, with or without reasonable accommodation
- Prolonged sitting, repetitive hand and foot movements, and sustained focus
- Ability to climb in and out of equipment multiple times per shift
- Exposure to noise, vibration, and low-light conditions
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
Core Competencies
- Safety-focused and detail-oriented
- Strong terrain awareness and judgment
- Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated
- Team-oriented with clear communication skills
- Adaptable to changing conditions and operational priorities
Salary : $20 - $24