Lift Operations Lead, Winter 26/27

About the Role

Seasonal work and play in the mountains. Join our team of big mountain adventurers at the largest ski resort in Washington. At Crystal, it's more than our work — it's our passion for the guest experience, the outdoors, and the community that bring us together at the end of the tree-lined road. We come from near and far to be up on the mountain because it's an experience you just don't get anywhere else. Work in the beautiful National Forest, neighboring Mt. Rainier, as a premier Ikon Pass destination.

Just like the trees, we are growing. Whether you are looking to escape the city, expand your skills, or progress in the ski industry, we have a variety of roles for hard-working and enthusiastic team-players.

Position Title: Lead Lift Operator
Business Unit: Mountain Operations
Reports to: Lift Operations Manager, Lift Operations Supervisor
Positions Reporting to this Role: Lift Operators
Location: Crystal Mtn, Washington
Wage: $22.00 - $23.50

Resort Overview, Culture and Vision

Crystal Mountain is the Pacific Northwest's premier destination for skiers, snowboarders, and summer adventurers. We are part of the Alterra Mountain Company family of resorts. A career with Crystal Mountain is more than what you do today; it's being part of creating a community rooted in the spirit of the mountains, united by a passion for adventure, and celebrating legendary adventures and enduring memories that mountains bring everyone.

Crystal Mountain's Mission is to deliver exceptional service and adventures worthy of our extraordinary mountain terrain and beauty.

• We appreciate effort but value performance
• We build relationships by acting with integrity
• We communicate & decide through collaboration
• We protect our environment to ensure our future
• We have fun doing what we do

Job Summary

The Lead Lift Operator assists Lift Operators at multiple lifts in daily duties, identifies and delegates tasks and projects for Lift Operators, gives Lift Operators breaks, trains and assists new employees, comprehends how each individual lift operates, as well as performs the duties of an operator.

Essential Duties

• Perform all duties of a Lift Operator
• Assist guests of all ages and abilities loading and unloading chairlifts
• Enthusiastically interact with guests at every opportunity while providing the best customer experience
• Set up, run, and break down multiple lifts every day and quickly develop a working knowledge of those lifts and work area
• Lead and assist your team of Lift Operators in assigned tasks and projects
• Must be able to adhere to all company and department policies and procedures and set the example for others
• Assist in training new employees
• Ensure all breaks are completed in accordance with Department of Labor policies
• Be responsible for the overall appearance of assigned lift stations and staff, as well as auditing station supplies and lift documentation
• Assist in physically demanding tasks
• Perform and manage crowd control at lift lines
• Have a professional appearance and demeanor
• Be respectful to all employees and guests at all times
• Must be dependable and reliable
• Encourage a safe work environment

This job description is an overview of the scope of responsibilities and is not intended to be an inclusive list of job tasks and expectations. With the evolution of this resort and position, the responsibilities of this position may change.

Knowledge, Skill and Ability 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
• Must be self-motivated and able to maximize use of time and resources

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• This position is required to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and long hours
• Be able to work flexible schedules
• Be able to lift, carry, or otherwise move a minimum of 50 pounds on an occasional basis
• Perform repetitive tasks
• Have the ability to work for extended periods of time standing, bending, reaching, speaking, and sitting on a constant basis
• Work outside in extreme cold, rain, and changing weather conditions for long periods of time
• Be comfortable with riding all chairlifts and working at heights

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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 100s of brands
• Discount Marketplace — deals on 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