Title: Mountain Surfaces Manager
Supervisor: Mountain Manager
Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Mountain Surfaces Manager oversees all aspects of snow surface preparation and maintenance for the ski area. During winter operations, this position manages grooming operations, snowmaking coordination, trail conditions, and surface quality to ensure safe, consistent, and enjoyable skiing and riding conditions. During summer operations, this position oversees mountain improvements and preventive maintenance. The MountainSurfaces Manager leads grooming and snowmaking staff, coordinates with mountain operations departments, and maintains equipment and operational standards.
Essential Duties
Mountain Surface Management
- Develop and implement daily grooming plans based on weather, skier traffic, and operational priorities.
- Monitor and evaluate snow conditions across all trails and terrain features.
- Maintain high-quality snow surfaces that meet resort standards for safety and guest satisfaction.
- Coordinate with the Snowmaking Department to optimize snow production and surface quality.
- Manage trail openings, closures, and condition reporting.
- Must be available to respond to operational needs and weather events outside of normal business hours.
- Coordinates with the Mountain Manager on summer trail maintenance and upgrades.
- Oversees summer upgrades and preventative maintenance on all grooming and snowmaking equipment.
- Supports summer operations as needed.
Leadership and Staff Management
- Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise grooming operators and snow surface staff.
- Ensure employees follow safety procedures and operational standards.
- Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and development.
- Foster a positive team culture focused on safety, quality, and service.
Equipment and Operations
- Oversee the operation and maintenance of snow grooming equipment.
- Coordinate preventive maintenance schedules with the vehicle maintenance department.
- Monitor fuel usage, equipment performance, and operating costs.
- Assist in evaluating and recommending equipment purchases and upgrades.
Safety and Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all company safety policies and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct safety meetings and training sessions.
- Investigate incidents involving trails, surfaces, or grooming operations.
- Maintain detailed records of operations, maintenance, and safety activities.
Budget and Resource Management
- Work with Mountain Manager to monitor labor and staffing, maintenance requirements, equipment cost trends, and department expenditures.
- Manage operational costs while maintaining quality standards.
- Recommend equipment upgrades and efficiency improvements.
Collaboration
- Work closely with Ski Patrol, Snowmaking, Lift Operations, Terrain Park, and Mountain Operations teams.
- Participate in operational planning and weather monitoring.
- Assist with special events and race preparation as needed.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required; college degree in business, recreation management, or related field preferred.
- Minimum of 3 years of ski area operations experience, including grooming and snow surface management.
- Previous supervisory or management experience preferred.
- Extensive knowledge of snowmaking, grooming practices, and mountain operations.
- Ability to analyze weather, snow conditions, and operational data.
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Experience operating snow grooming equipment preferred.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and always meet company insurability requirements. OSHA certifications and hoisting/operators' licensing are a plus.
Physical Requirements & Environment
- Ability to work outdoors in extreme winter weather conditions.
- Ability to work evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays, based on operational demands.
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, and navigate uneven terrain.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Key Performance Indicators
- Trail quality and guest satisfaction scores.
- Grooming efficiency and equipment utilization.
- Safety performance and incident reduction.
- Budget adherence and cost control.
- Employee retention and development.
Compensation
Competitive salary of $28-$30/hour based on experience, plus employee benefits, season pass privileges, and potential bonus opportunities.
Additional Information
The duties and responsibilities described above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals in this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as business needs change. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Bousquet Mountain is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to legally protected characteristics.