Grooming Winch Operator

Grooming Winch Operator

Job Description

Class/Group: Hourly/Non-Exempt, Group III or IV

Reports to: Grooming Manager/Snow Surfaces Director

Pay Range: $21.75-$25.90

Supervises: N/A

Status: Winter Seasonal, Full-Time or Part-Time

CENTRAL PURPOSE: To enrich the lives of our community by providing joy and freedom through exploration

CORE VALUES: Seek first to help - Dedicated to results - Optimism in action - Solution seekers

GROOMING TEAM LEAD JOB SUMMARY

World-class grooming is essential to delivering a world-class ski surface. As a Groomer/Winch Groomer at Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort, you will bring your grooming experience, problem-solving skills, and teamwork to ensure the mountain is prepared nightly to the highest standards. This position plays a key role in delivering an exceptional guest experience and maintaining a strong foundation for a winter season filled with joy, freedom, fun, and exploration.

Qualifications

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES/TASKS:

Grooming/Winch Operations:

• Operate snowcats and winch cats safely and in accordance with Mission producing exceptional skiable surfaces across various slopes including steep-terrain locations.
• Operate snowcats to assist with Terrain Park work and Alpine grooming.
• Operate in dynamic environments with inclement weather at night while ensuring surfaces remain safe and consistent.
• Operate additional heavy equipment as needed
• May occasionally fulfill other roles

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Grooming Experience: At least 4 years experience alpine grooming and winch grooming. An extensive knowledge of snow types and grooming techniques.
• Equipment Operation: Proficient with a variety of grooming equipment; heavy machinery and mechanical aptitude is a plus.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to effectively communicate and maintain effective working relationships with employees and public.
• Problem-Solving: Capable of making sound decisions under pressure; detail-oriented work ethic
• Work Conditions: Able to work nights, extended long shifts in severe winter weather.
• Preferred: Valid WA Driver’s License; skiing/snowboarding ability preferred, but not required.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required. A minimum of 4 years of grooming experience is required. Additional related training or certifications and experience operating heavy machinery in mountain environments are highly beneficial.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position requires working outdoors in a high-alpine environment during winter conditions, including cold temperatures, wind, snow, and limited visibility. Grooming shifts typically occur overnight and can extend beyond normal working hours, especially during weather events. The Grooming Team works independently and collaboratively with other departments and must be prepared to manage both physical and mental demands in a remote mountain setting.

PHYSICAL DEMAND:

The role demands the ability to lift 80 pounds, operate grooming equipment for 10+ hours, and perform duties that require sitting, bending, kneeling, and climbing in snowy or icy conditions. Visual attention to detail and hearing sufficient to communicate via radio are essential. The job also requires completing documentation and reading technical instructions under varying light conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Rarely (0–12%), Occasionally (12–33%), Frequently (34–66%), Regularly (67–100%)

• Seeing: FREQUENTLY

-Must be able to read reports and use computer

• Hearing: FREQUENTLY

-Must be able to hear well enough to communicate with coworkers.

• Standing/Walking: REGULARLY

-Consistent and constant standing and walking while in operation.

• Climbing/Stooping/Kneeling: REGULARLY

-The position requires the ability to stand, walk, climb, balance, kneel, stoop, and crouch for extended periods.

• Lifting/Pulling/Pushing: REGULARLY

-Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds

• Fingering/Grasping/Feeling: REGULARLY
• Sitting: FREQUENTLY

-Must be able to write, type, and use phone system

Note: The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skill required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.