Lift Operations Lead, Winter 26/27

Join our team of big mountain adventurers at the largest ski resort in Washington! At Crystal, it's more than just work—it's our passion for the guest experience, the outdoors, and the community that brings us together. We come from near and far to be on the mountain because it's an experience you won't find anywhere else. Work in the beautiful National Forest, neighboring Mt. Rainier, as a premier Ikon Pass destination with a whole lot of stoke to share.

Benefits

• Free Alterra season pass (unlimited, direct to lift at all Alterra resorts) + Free Alterra season pass for spouse and dependents 25 & under
• 50% off window ticket price at IKON partner resorts
• Free access to Alterra Mountain destinations during time off
• Free ski-referral letters for employees to use at other mountain resorts during time off
• Free friends & family day-ski vouchers (periodic allotment)
• Discounts on ski & snowboard lessons
• Discounts on ski & snowboard rentals
• Discounts on gear tune-ups
• Discounts on food & beverage
• Discounts at Crystal Mountain retail shops
• Free Crystal-branded swag
• Pro deals on gear with hundreds of brands
• Discount marketplace (accessories, auto, electronics, entertainment, fitness, food, home, pet supplies, travel, and more)
• Employee-only night skiing events
• Employee housing available for eligible positions
• Accrued paid time off for eligible positions
• Group health insurance for eligible positions
• 401K benefit and generous match with immediate vesting for all staff members over 18
• Opportunities for growth, advancement, and year-round employment

About the Role

Crystal Mountain, the Pacific Northwest's premier destination for skiers, snowboarders, and summer adventurers, is part of the Alterra Mountain Company family of resorts. A career with Crystal Mountain is about creating a community rooted in the spirit of the mountains, united by a passion for adventure, and celebrating legendary experiences and enduring memories.

Our mission is to deliver exceptional service and adventures worthy of our extraordinary mountain terrain and beauty. We value performance, integrity, collaboration, environmental stewardship, and fun.

Responsibilities

• Perform all duties of a Lift Operator
• Assist guests of all ages and abilities loading and unloading chairlifts
• Enthusiastically interact with guests to provide the best customer experience
• Set up, run, and break down multiple lifts daily; develop a working knowledge of those lifts and work areas
• Lead and assist your team of Lift Operators in assigned tasks and projects
• Adhere to all company and department policies and set an example for others
• Assist in training new employees
• Ensure all breaks are completed in accordance with Department of Labor policies
• Maintain the overall appearance of assigned lift stations, audit station supplies, and lift documentation
• Assist in physically demanding tasks
• Perform and manage crowd control at lift lines
• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor
• Be respectful to all employees and guests at all times
• Encourage a safe work environment

Requirements

• Must be 18 or older
• Leadership and/or Lift Lead experience required
• Ski/snowboard experience required; must be comfortable riding in all weather conditions
• Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to maximize use of time and resources

Pay

$22.00 - $23.50 per hour

Schedule

• Early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and long hours
• Flexible schedules

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Ability to lift, carry, or otherwise move a minimum of 50 pounds occasionally
• Perform repetitive tasks
• Work extended periods standing, bending, reaching, speaking, and sitting
• Work outside in extreme cold, rain, and changing weather conditions for long periods
• Comfortable riding all chairlifts and working at heights