Lift Operator, Winter 26/27

About the Role

Join our team of big mountain adventurers at Crystal Mountain, the largest ski resort in Washington. Here, work is more than a job—it's a passion for the guest experience, the outdoors, and the community. As a Lift Operator, you'll safely and efficiently operate ski lifts, assist guests in loading and unloading, conduct crowd control, and interact professionally and enthusiastically with guests.

Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate a ski lift
• Be attentive at load and unload terminals, monitoring all areas around your station
• Perform opening and closing procedures for the ski lift and lift maze
• Assist guests of all ages and abilities in safely loading and unloading chairlifts
• Enthusiastically interact with guests at every opportunity
• Prepare and maintain a safe and aesthetically pleasing workspace (shoveling, raking, moving snow)
• Complete required documentation such as daily logs accurately and legibly
• Work independently or in groups to accomplish daily tasks
• Maintain lift chairs by removing snow, ice, and precipitation
• Conduct crowd control in lift mazes
• Present a professional appearance and demeanor at all times
• Follow all skiing policies and codes

Requirements

• Must be 18 or older
• Ski/Snowboard experience preferred
• Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to maximize time and resources
• Previous lift operation experience desired
• Able to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and long hours
• Able to lift, carry, or move a minimum of 50 pounds occasionally
• Perform repetitive tasks and work extended periods standing, bending, reaching, speaking, and sitting
• Comfortable working outside in extreme cold, rain, and changing conditions for long periods
• Comfortable riding all chairlifts and working at heights
• Must be dependable and reliable

Benefits

• Free Alterra season pass (unlimited, direct-to-lift access 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 use at other mountain resorts during time off
• Free friends & family day-ski vouchers (periodic allotment)
• Discounts on ski & snowboard lessons, rentals, gear tune-ups, food & beverage, and 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 with generous match and immediate vesting for all staff over 18
• Opportunities for growth, advancement, and year-round employment

Pay

Wage range: $20.00–$21.50 per hour

About Us

Crystal Mountain is the Pacific Northwest’s premier destination for skiers, snowboarders, and summer adventurers. As part of the Alterra Mountain Company family of resorts, we deliver exceptional service and adventures worthy of our extraordinary mountain terrain. Our mission is to create a community rooted in the spirit of the mountains, united by a passion for adventure and legendary experiences.