The Lift Operator is responsible for the efficient loading and unloading of guests of all ages and abilities on chairlifts and other mountain transportation systems. As a member of the Lift Operations team, the Lift Operator plays an important role in creating a welcoming, positive, and enjoyable experience for every guest.
Lift Operators are expected to maintain a high level of awareness, follow department operating procedures, provide exceptional guest service, and work collaboratively with Lift Operations and other departments throughout the day.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Operate multiple types of mountain transportation, including chairlifts, gondolas, tows, and carpets.
- Follow all company and department policies, procedures, and operating standards.
- Complete required pre-operational procedures.
- Monitor the load and unload of guests while remaining attentive to guests who may require additional assistance.
- Provide courteous, professional, and proactive guest service.
- Anticipate guest needs and provide service that meets or exceeds expectations.
- Work independently and effectively as part of a team to complete daily operational responsibilities.
- Assist with daily lift setup, snow removal, and maintaining clean and organized work areas.
- Perform routine operational tasks and assist with basic maintenance of work areas as directed.
- Assist with lift opening and closing procedures, including required end-of-day checks.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, other Lift Operators, Ski Patrol, and other departments.
- Work respectfully and collaboratively with all departments to identify and resolve operational or guest-related issues.
- Maintain awareness of changing weather, mountain conditions, equipment, and guest activity.
- Report operational concerns, equipment issues, guest incidents, and other conditions to the appropriate supervisor.
- Attend required training, department meetings, and operational briefings.
- Perform other duties as assigned by Lift Operations leadership.
Qualifications
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Able to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to perform job responsibilities and follow department procedures.
- Ability to read and interpret documents including operating instructions, maintenance instructions, department procedures, and manuals.
- Ability to work independently and effectively as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
- Strong commitment to guest service and operational excellence.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
- Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and nights as operational needs require.
- Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in changing and extreme weather conditions.
- Skiing or snowboarding experience is a plus, but not required.
- Successful completion of Snowbasin Lift Operations Department training.
- Must be able to commit to the entire winter season.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
While performing the duties of this position, employees are regularly required to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, shovel, rake, and ice chip.
- Lift and carry materials and equipment as required.
- Work around moving mechanical equipment and mountain transportation systems.
- Perform duties in wet, humid, snowy, and extremely cold conditions.
- Work outdoors in variable and sometimes severe winter weather.
- Tolerate a work environment where noise levels may be loud.
Work Environment
Lift Operators work primarily outdoors in a mountain environment and are exposed to changing weather conditions, snow and ice, moving mechanical equipment, and varying levels of guest traffic. Employees must remain alert and focused throughout their shifts and consistently follow established operating procedures.
Training
All Lift Operators are required to successfully complete Snowbasin Lift Operations Department training before independently performing lift operating responsibilities. Training includes lift operating procedures, guest loading and unloading, emergency procedures, communication protocols, guest service expectations, and other department-specific requirements.
Guest Service Expectations
Lift Operators are among the employees’ guests encounter most frequently during their mountain experience. Employees are expected to maintain a positive and professional attitude, communicate clearly, assist guests when needed, and contribute to a welcoming and inclusive environment for guests of all ages and abilities.
Teamwork, operational excellence, and exceptional guest service are the foundation of the Lift Operations team.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
