SnowCAT Operator

Lone Mountain Ranch (LMR), situated on 148 acres in beautiful Big Sky, Montana, was first homesteaded in 1915 and has long been recognized as one of the premier guest ranch resorts in the country. The property consists of 30 rooms located within 24 unique cabins as well as the Horn & Cantle Restaurant and Saloon, the Ranch Hall, the Outpost, equestrian facilities, event venues and meeting spaces. A National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, LMR is listed on the National Registry of the Historic Places, a member of the Dude Rancher’s Association, and once voted the #1 Nordic Ski Resort in North America by Cross Country Skier Magazine, LMR offers authentic luxury accommodations, genuine Montana cuisine, exceptional service, and a stunning array of outdoor recreational pursuits. Combine these attributes with proximity to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky Resort, as well as Bozeman Airport, and we believe the LMR guest experience is unlike any other in the American West.

SUMMARY

The Nordic Snowcat Operator is responsible for grooming and maintaining Nordic trails to the highest quality standard, creating a smooth, consistent, and safe experience for skiers. This role involves operating and maintaining the snowcat and other trail maintenance equipment, performing snow and trail repairs, and collaborating with the Activities Department to ensure trails are well-prepared, scenic, and safe throughout the season.

The ideal candidate is a skilled equipment operator who takes pride in their work, communicates clearly with teammates, and contributes to a culture of respect and positivity. They understand the nuances of snow conditions, enjoy working outdoors in all weather, and value being part of a team that brings outdoor recreation to life for guests. Reliability, attention to detail, and adaptability are key.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Groom Nordic ski trails using snowcats, snowmobiles, and other equipment with precision and care.
• Maintain all equipment, including snowcats, snowmobiles, trail grooming tools, and snowmaking gear.
• Operate grooming implements (blades, tillers, track setters, etc.) to create a consistent trail surface.
• Cut and fill terrain irregularities including ruts, holes, and other hazards to ensure skier safety.
• Maintain and clear trails using chainsaws and other trail maintenance equipment.
• Communicate trail conditions and grooming reports with theActivities Supervisorand Activities team daily.
• Monitor machine service hours and coordinate maintenance or repairs with the Engineering Manager.
• Keep all vehicles clean, fueled, and in good operating condition; perform minor repairs and inspections.
• Complete grooming logs, reports, and timecards accurately and on time.
• Practice safe operating procedures at all timesand follow company SOPs and safety standards.
• Be adaptable to changing schedules and start times based on guest needs, weather, and snow conditions.
• Must be comfortable working overnight in dark,cold conditions—most grooming shifts occur at night.
• Treat all guests and team membersencounteredon the trails with kindness, courtesy, and respect, promoting a safe and welcoming environment for all.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 3 years of experience operating snowcats or heavy equipment.
• Solid understanding of snow composition and snow grooming techniques.
• Intermediate to advanced mechanical knowledge of grooming equipment and machinery.
• Strong snowmobile handling skills in a variety of snow conditions.
• Working knowledge of Nordic skiing, including both classic and skate disciplines.
• Ability tooperatechainsaws and perform trail maintenance duties safely.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Reliable transportation to and from work.
• Positive attitude and willingness to collaborate and communicate effectively with teammates and leadership.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work is performed primarily outdoors in winter weather, including snow, wind, and temperatures down to -30°F.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50lbsfrequentlyand occasionally up to 75lbs(e.g., grooming equipment, trail supplies).
• Requires regular bending, kneeling, climbing, and working on uneven, icy, or snowy terrain.
• Work schedule may include early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on operational needs.
• Must be comfortable working alone at night and in low-visibility conditions with minimal supervision.
• Ability to stay focused in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing weather and trail conditions.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time or without notice. 

Seasonal employees are hired to work for a pre-determined period of less than 12 months. At the end of the temporary period, employment is terminated. If a seasonal employee wishes to be considered for future employment, they may reapply but will be considered a new employee for all purposes.

HOURLY EMPLOYEE & SEASONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

In addition to a competitive hourly wage, seasonal employees at Lone Mountain Ranch enjoy the following benefits:

 Seasonal Bonus Program

All hourly seasonal employees are eligible to participate.

• $1 per regular hour worked
• $1.50 per overtime hour worked
• Applies to hours worked within defined seasonal dates
• Short-term contracted roles are eligible

Employees who resign or are terminated prior to season completion are not eligible. If the season ends early due to business levels, eligible employees will still participate.

 Ranch Gratuity

• Collected on all guest stays and ranch bookings
• Added on to base hourly rate
• Distributed to eligible employees 

 Employee Housing

• Offered based on availability
• Priced at a subsidized rate
• Dorm style, single family homes, ranging in distance from the Ranch

 Staff Cafeteria

• Three meals daily
• Grab-and-go options
• Snacks and hydration selections

 Employee Discounts

• 50% off food in Horn & Cantle for employee and one guest (alcohol excluded)
• 35% off retail purchases
• One discounted employee cabin stay per season (maximum two nights)

 Ranch Activities (Based on Availability)

Summer Access:

• Archery
• Axe throwing
• Hiking
• High ropes course
• Yellowstone tours

Winter Access:

• 50 miles of cross-country ski trails accessible from the Ranch