Sugar Bowl Resort is looking for a Snowmaker III - an experienced, advanced operator ready to take on our most demanding snowmaking challenges. You’ll run complex snowmaking operations across the system, troubleshoot equipment issues that stump newer team members, and help translate weather and temperature windows into a real production plan. You’ll also mentor Snowmaker I and II team members, helping raise the skill level of the whole crew. This role is a great fit for a seasoned snowmaker ready to take the next step and act as a go-to resource on the hill.
Why Sugar Bowl?
Sugar Bowl Resort has been proudly independent for over 80 years and is one of the oldest ski resorts in California. Situated atop beautiful Donner Summit, Sugar Bowl has a storied past with ties to Austrian ski culture, Hollywood and Walt Disney. This special community helped bring skiing to “sunny California” since December 1939. Since then, it continues to attract adventurous winter sports enthusiasts alike.
Who You Are
- 3+ seasons of snowmaking experience, including work across varied conditions and terrain
- Advanced knowledge of snowmaking guns, hydrant systems, and compressor operations
- Capable of diagnosing and resolving complex equipment issues, beyond routine troubleshooting
- Advanced skill set with a snowmobile and other on snow vehicles
- Comfortable reading weather and temperature windows to inform production priorities
- A track record of mentoring or training newer team members
- Punctual, energetic, and self-motivated
- A genuine team player who works well with others
- Follows employee handbook policies and sets a professional example for fellow employees
- Available to work all times of day or night, in all conditions
- Comfortable in a sometimes high-stress, fast-paced environment
- Treats courtesy and safety as top priorities
- Open to learning new skills and supporting other departments as needed; a versatile, team-first mindset
What You’ll do
- Run complex, large-scale snowmaking operations across multiple trails and hydrant zones
- Diagnose and resolve advanced equipment issues, coordinating with the Snowmaking Supervisor on repairs beyond field-level fixes
- Help translate weather and temperature windows into a real-time production plan
- Mentor and train Snowmaker I and II team members on equipment, technique, and safety
- Oversee compressor operation, fueling, spill prevention, and clean-up procedures across the shift
- Serve as a go-to resource for trail names, hydrant locations, and system layout
- Model and reinforce all safety procedures, and never proceed where safety is in question
- Keep work areas clean and tidy, and help hold the broader team to that standard
- Follow all policies as outlined in the Sugar Bowl Employee Handbook
- Cross-train and lend a hand in other departments as needed, building a broader understanding of resort operations
- Take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills across the resort, supporting a well-rounded, team-first approach to the guest experience.
Physical Requirements
- Comfortable working outdoors in extreme, cold winter weather conditions, often during overnight and early morning hours
- Capable of lifting and carrying equipment and supplies up to 50 lbs
- Steady footing for walking and standing on snow, ice, and uneven terrain for extended periods
- Comfortable working in proximity to pressurized air/water lines and running equipment
- Manual dexterity for connecting hoses, operating valves, and handling snowmaking equipment
- Sufficient visual and auditory acuity to work safely at night and in low-visibility conditions
Winter Benefits
- Employer sponsored 401k plan after 1,000 worked hours and one (1) year of service
- Paid sick time
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Professional development opportunities
- Free ski and tubing passes for employees
- Free ski passes for dependents
- 50% off food at our restaurants
- Free group ski and snowboard lessons for employees
- Employee discounted lift tickets for family and friends
- Lift ticket discounts at multiple resorts including 24 Mountain Collective destinations
- Hotel discounts
- Employee ski reciprocal programs