Snowcat Operator

Powder Mountain is seeking dedicated and safety-conscious Snowcat Operators (Levels I, II, and III) to join our Grooming Department. The Snowcat Operator is responsible for maintaining high-quality, safe, and consistent snow conditions across ski trails, beginner slopes, terrain parks, and resort infrastructure.

Job Title: Snow Cat Operator
Department: Grooming
Status: Seasonal FT
Reporting To: Slopes Manager and Grooming Supervisors
Shifts: Swing Shift (4:00 PM – 11:30 PM) & Graveyard Shift (11:00 PM – 9:00 AM)

Key Responsibilities:

Operational & Grooming Duties

• Safely operate snowcat equipment and attachments (blade, tiller, tracks, winch) under varying weather and terrain conditions.
• Groom designated priority areas, including beginner trails, high-traffic intermediate runs, terrain parks, lodge areas, and residential loops.
• Perform complex operations (for senior/lead levels) such as grading mazes, pushing snow piles, shaping terrain park features, and maintaining ramp heights.
• Utilize grooming technologies like SnowSat to optimize efficiency and snow management.

Inspections & Equipment Maintenance

• Perform thorough pre-operation and post-operation equipment checks (fuel, DEF, hydraulic fluid, coolant, oil levels, lights, backup alarms, track tension).
• Conduct basic routine maintenance including greasing, cleaning machines inside and out, and logging maintenance/shift reports.
• Promptly report mechanical issues, fluid leaks, or equipment damage to mechanics and supervisors.

Safety & Communication

• Maintain constant radio communication with dispatch and grooming team members.
• Operate at safe speeds (7 MPH and under) with strict focus on low-visibility, whiteout, and blind-spot safety.
• Follow strict winch operations protocols, including placing top-of-run safety beacons when winch cables are deployed.
• Comply with avalanche safety protocols and coordinate with Snow Safety regarding restricted/avalanche control areas.
• Maintain 3 points of contact when entering/exiting equipment and remain at least 3 feet clear of all structures and obstacles.

Requirements and/or Qualifications:

• Minimum age requirement of 21
• 1-2 Years Cat Operation Prefered
• Valid Driver’s License
• Certifications/Training: Must complete internal Snowcat Operation Training, Pistenbully/Pro Academy Groomer Level I, and annual refreshers (minimum 1-week ride-along required for new operators).
• Skills: Strong spatial/situational awareness, basic-to-advanced knowledge of mountain terrain and snow conditions (powder, ice), and mechanical aptitude.
• Communication & Teamwork: Clear communication skills, dependability, accountability, and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Environmental Responsibility: Commitment to minimizing idling emissions and maintaining a clean work environment.

Physical Requirements- Must be able to perform physical activities such as, but not limited to:

• Full range of body movements
• Reach, push, pull, lift, and carry objects that may be heavy (40 lbs)
• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, bending, and twisting
• Walk on even/uneven/slippery terrain
• Climb/descend stairs/ladders
• Manual dexterity to operate manual tools and power equipment on a constant basis
• Safely handle hazardous materials

Logistics:

• Shift Availability: Nightly shifts during winter operating months (Swing and Graveyard shifts).
• Transportation: Company shuttle transportation provided from the Eden Park & Ride (limited seating)
• Gear: High-visibility gear required at all times; operators provided with radio communication equipment.

Working Environment:

The work environment is primarily in an outdoor environment. You will be required to get in and out of the snowcats frequently. Work is performed outside consisting of extreme temperatures, loud sounds that may be distracting and in inclement weather (rain, snow, ice) at high altitude (9,000 feet). This role will see sun and wind exposure on a daily basis. Poor visibility and low light nights are highly likely.

Company Background

Powder is a year-round resort and real estate development project nestled throughout 12,000 acres in the Wasatch Mountains of Northern Utah. We are striving to be the premier place of being and doing, a destination that fuses outdoor recreation with a cultural and hospitality program that connects visitors with a deeper sense of self and purpose. Our core values come to life in a unique and natural setting of unparalleled beauty.

Together we are one team, not an "us vs. them" mentality. We are focused on being a progressive employer with pay equity, inclusion, while building diverse teams.