Manager, Avalanche Forecasting, Winter 26-27

About the Role

Working under the direction of the Assistant Director Snow Safety, collect and analyze weather and snowpack data to support avalanche forecast products at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. Collaborate with Assistant Director Snow Safety and Ski Patrol Leadership to make avalanche risk management decisions for avalanche workers and ski area operations at Mammoth. Provide avalanche safety training to the Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol under the direction of the Assistant Director, Snow Safety. Mentor and assist front line Patrol staff with daily duties when appropriate.

This role combines field leadership with administrative oversight and requires strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, expert skiing ability, strong downhill mountain biking ability, and the ability to lead effectively. The Patrol Manager works closely with the Assistant Director, Snow Safety and Director of Patrol to coordinate staffing, training, avalanche mitigation support, operational priorities, and emergency response readiness across the mountain.

Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze weather and snowpack data to support avalanche forecast products
• Collaborate with leadership to make avalanche risk management decisions
• Provide avalanche safety training to Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol
• Mentor and assist front line Patrol staff with daily duties
• Coordinate staffing, training, avalanche mitigation, operational priorities, and emergency response readiness

Requirements

• EMT, EMR, WFR or equivalent to 80-hour minimum first aid certification
• Current CPR training and certification
• Meet or exceed expectations and experience of/or equivalent to Master Patroller at MMSA
• Extensive avalanche mitigation experience utilizing explosives, artillery and/or remote avalanche control systems
• Current licensed blaster in State of California or eligibility and willingness to obtain
• Demonstrated ability to analyze snowpack and weather information to make safety sensitive decisions
• Ability to make operational and forecasting decisions in the absence of the Assistant Director Snow Safety
• Advanced computer skills with familiarity performing tasks using MS Office products, database management and mapping products
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Expert skiing skills with comfort skiing in avalanche terrain in all snow conditions
• Minimum of 5 winter seasons working as an avalanche professional
• Pro 2 or equivalent avalanche course certification recognized by the American Avalanche Association or Canadian Avalanche Association
• Minimum 5 years avalanche forecasting experience for a ski area operation, mechanized skiing operation, highway or industrial operation
• Expert level skills operating a snowmobile in inclement weather conditions
• Experience as an avalanche educator or in a training role within an avalanche operation
• Experience in avalanche search and rescue, including having participated in organized rescue practice annually
• Demonstrated commitment to annual continuing professional development

Benefits

• Free skiing at all Alterra Resorts
• Ski passes for dependents (spouse/child(ren)/domestic partners)
• Ski/snowboarding lessons discounts
• Equipment rental discount
• Friends and Family vouchers
• Retail & Food discount
• 401k with company match

Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Pay

$85,489.17 - $90,916.88 per year