Snowmaker All Experience Levels

About the role

Operates and maintains the snowmaking system to create optimal skiing and snowboarding surfaces of man-made snow. Applicants must be 18 years of age.

Responsibilities

Entry Snowmaker

• Set up, tear down, and maintain snowmaking system: gun and hoses set up, machine check out, on-hill shoveling
• Manufacture snow which meets or exceeds established quality standards
• Make necessary adjustments to the computer system during operational periods
• Travel over snow on steep terrain by foot or via snowmobile to check system operation and perform adjustments and minor repairs
• Monitor quality of snow produced; make adjustments to snowmaking equipment as necessary
• Accurate record keeping regarding significant events and machine performance
• Operate and maintain snowmaking facility, ponds, compressor rooms, locker rooms, and facilities in a clean and orderly manner
• Perform general cleaning and housekeeping tasks
• Responsible for checkout and return of all small tools to original locations
• Report any malfunctions or needed repairs of operational problems to supervisor immediately
• Operate snowmaking equipment and snowmobiles in compliance with Palisades Tahoe safety policy

Experienced Snowmaker

In addition to the responsibilities listed for Entry Snowmaker:

• Assist in training and development of entry and intermediate staff
• Recommend adjustments to improve snow quality and efficiency

Requirements

• Effective communication skills, oral and written
• Strong sense of customer service and safety awareness
• Able to understand and follow verbal and written instructions
• Neat and clean appearance in compliance with company grooming standards
• Punctual, able to report at scheduled start time
• Work well as part of a team
• Required to ski or snowboard on snow and ice, uphill and downhill, while carrying equipment
• Able to work with minimum supervision
• Must possess a valid driver’s license

Qualifications

Entry Snowmaker

• High School Diploma or GED
• One year snowmaking experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience

Experienced Snowmaker

• High School Diploma or GED
• Three years snowmaking experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Extensive knowledge of mountain operations

Preferred Skills

• Welding
• Carpentry
• Plumbing knowledge
• First Aid/CPR Training

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to walk, talk, see, hear, and ski
• Capable of walking or standing 90% or more of a normal 8-hour work shift
• Capable of frequently balancing, climbing, reaching, and occasionally squatting, bending, kneeling, stooping, and crawling
• Capable of frequently carrying, lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 50 lbs, and occasionally up to 100 lbs
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus

Working Conditions

• Frequently exposed to outside weather conditions, including extreme winter cold and blizzard conditions
• May encounter hazards such as mechanical, electrical, fumes, odors, dusts, and gases
• Moderate noise level in the workplace
• Equipment used includes snow guns, hoses, hydrants, compressors, hand tools, torches, snowmobiles, skis, or snowboards

Pay

Base hourly pay range: $18.00 - $32.14 per hour. Actual pay will vary and may be above or below the range based on factors including experience, education, training, location, merit system, quantity or quality of production, responsibilities, and travel.

Benefits

• Free skiing and riding privileges at 17 iconic resorts including Palisades Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, Steamboat, and Solitude
• Healthcare options for both seasonal and year-round employees
• Generous discounts on outdoor gear and apparel
• 401(k) plan with generous company match
• Free and discounted lift tickets
• 25%-50% discount at Food & Beverage locations at Palisades and Alpine
• 40% discount at Palisades Tahoe-operated retail stores, including The North Face, Patagonia, and Oakley
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)