Senior Manager: Ski Patrol

About the Role

At Vail Resorts, the mission is to create an “Experience of a Lifetime” for employees so they can deliver the same for guests. The Ski Patrol Senior Manager at Hunter Mountain provides strategic leadership for all ski patrol operations, ensuring top‑tier safety for guests and employees. The role oversees both professional and volunteer ski patrols, covering staffing, training, budgeting, scheduling, interdepartmental relations, guest service, emergency medical response, incident management, risk mitigation, rope rescue, lift evacuation, mountain rescue, summertime first‑aid operations, capital projects, and summer maintenance projects. Success is measured by safety performance, employee engagement, regulatory compliance, and exceptional guest service.

Responsibilities

• Lead overall financial management of the Ski Patrol department, including labor and operating budgets.
• Oversee day‑to‑day Ski Patrol operations in partnership with patrol leadership to ensure safe, efficient, and consistent mountain operations.
• Actively manage and shape the culture of the Ski Patrol team, reinforcing accountability, teamwork, professionalism, and alignment with company values.
• Champion a strong culture of guest service, safety, and professionalism across the department.
• Conduct effective daily staff meetings, reinforce safety standards, and participate in Vail‑wide Ski Patrol COE initiatives.
• Strengthen intra‑ and interdepartmental collaboration; support relationships with external agencies, including the DEC and/or applicable state entities.
• Manage winter mountain setup and spring teardown; oversee daily condition monitoring, trail openings/closures, signage, ropes, and padding.
• Oversee departmental training programs, including schedules, content, and training safety standards.
• Lead the candidate/apprentice program, including staffing levels, budgets, testing, and forecasting future patrol staffing needs.
• Collaborate with Snow Surfaces and Grooming leadership to establish daily grooming priorities.
• Participate actively in Resort Leadership Team meetings and daily operational calls.
• Provide direct oversight of the Accident Investigation team, including hiring, training, and coordination with Health & Safety.
• Engage in company‑wide leadership development programs.

Requirements

• 5+ years of ski patrol experience.
• Current OEC certification.
• Expert skiing or riding ability.
• Strong knowledge of ski area operations and mountain safety practices.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, and decision‑making skills.
• Minimum ICS‑100 certification.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Teams.
• Fluency in reading, writing, and speaking English.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Preferred: EMT or higher medical certification.
• Preferred: National Ski Patrol senior or certified alpine certification.
• 3‑4 years of patrol supervisory experience.
• Experience managing large operational teams.
• Experience managing budgets and labor resources.
• Experience with emergency management planning and incident command.
• Snowmobile or UTV experience.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in emergency management, risk management, public safety, business, recreation management, or related fields.

Benefits

• Free employee ski passes and discounted lift tickets for friends and family.
• Free ski and snowboard lessons for employees.
• 40% retail discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Comprehensive training and professional development through Epic Service.
• Referral program.
• Health, medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible seasonal employees after 500 hours (full‑time roles also receive these benefits).
• Free ski passes for dependents.
• Critical Illness and Accident plans.

Pay

Starting wage range: $72,382.00 – $103,403.00 plus annual bonus.