Snowmaker 2026/27

Snowmaker Position at Bousquet Mountain

Bousquet Mountain is a premier all-season resort nestled in the beautiful Berkshires of western MA. During the winter months it offers excellent skiing and snowboarding, with trails suitable for all levels. In the summer visitors can enjoy the summer concert series, along with a variety of other events and activities. Bousquet Mountain's modern lodge and delectable dining options provide a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Whether it's hitting the slopes or enjoying live music, Bousquet Mountain is the ideal destination for all seasons.

Bousquet Employees Enjoy Benefits Such as: Season Passes* Onsite Food and Beverage Discounts Outdoor Prolink Discounts Discounts on Rentals and Ski Tuning Discounts at Berkshire Bike and Board on Winter Equipment Discounted Indy Employee Pass Discounts on Family Passes, Lessons, Rentals, and Racing* Pass Availability Subject to Work Hours Commitment and Length of Employment

Job Description

Anticipated work dates: November 1 to February 1

Overview

A snowmaker plays a vital role in the operation of any ski area by ensuring that the trails and slopes are covered with quality snow throughout the winter season. This position requires not only technical knowledge and physical endurance but also a passion for working in outdoor environments, often under challenging weather conditions.

• Operating Snowmaking Equipment: Setup, operate, monitor, and shut down snow guns, air/water lines, and pumps according to weather conditions and production goals.
• Monitoring Snow Quality: Continuously assess the quality and quantity of snow being produced, adjusting equipment and operations as necessary to achieve desired snow consistency and coverage.
• Adjusting to Weather Conditions: Interpret weather data such as temperature, humidity, and wind direction to optimize snowmaking operations and ensure efficient use of resources.
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine inspections, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance of snowmaking equipment, hoses, hydrants, and electrical systems. Have a working understanding of pumphouses including instrumentation, pumps, compressors, cooling systems, after-coolers, controls, and computers. Identify when service and preventative maintenance tasks on snowmaking compressors and pumps are needed. Learn how to check valves and pressure gauges and execute them consistently. Monitor gauges based upon on-hill activity.
• Report more complex issues to the maintenance team.
• Safety Awareness: Follow strict safety protocols when working with pressurized air, high-voltage equipment, and in extreme weather conditions. Utilize personal protective equipment as required.
• Collaboration: Communicate regularly with team members, supervisors, and other departments to coordinate efforts and respond to changing priorities across the mountain.
• Physical Labor: Carry, drag, and connect hoses; move snow guns; and hike on steep, snowy slopes during all hours of the day and night.
• Documentation: Keep detailed records of snowmaking activities, including operational hours, equipment settings, production amounts, and any incidents or malfunctions.
• Environmental Responsibility: Minimize water and energy usage through efficient operation and be mindful of the environmental impact of snowmaking activities.
• Reports directly to the Bousquet Mountain Surface Manager

Job Qualifications

• Previous experience in snowmaking, mountain operations, or a related field is highly desirable but not always required.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Basic mechanical, electrical, or plumbing skills are a plus. Knowledge of compressor/pump mechanics, electrical systems, instrumentation, welding, pipe laying, and construction as well as formal training in air compressors and water pumps is desirable.
• First Aid, CPR, and other relevant safety certifications are advantageous.
• A valid driver's license and clean driving record may be required.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. (23 kg), push and pull heavy hoses, and maneuver equipment in deep snow and on steep terrain.
• Comfort working in frigid temperatures (often below freezing), high winds, and heavy snowfall for several hours at a time.
• Snowmakers typically work overnight. Work may require long periods of standing, walking, bending, and climbing in dark and isolated conditions.
• Be exposed to loud machinery, bright lights, and moving grooming vehicles.
• Risk of slips, falls, and other hazards typical of a mountain environment; strict adherence to all safety procedures is essential.

NOTE: All Bousquet Mountain employees are required to perform alternate functions, both within and outside of their assigned department, particularly during peak periods such as holiday weekends.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Bousquet Mountain Snowmakers must have the Ability to lift heavy equipment, often 4080 pounds (hoses, pipes, snow guns) and be capable of carrying and pulling hoses uphill as well as moving machinery. They must have the stamina and mobility for standing, walking, and climbing for long periods as well as having the ability to work on steep, uneven, icy surfaces. Snowmakers must be able to tolerate prolonged exposure to extreme cold as shifts may take place during storms or harsh winter weather. Snowmaking is most effective in colder temperatures, so shifts are often working overnight (e.g., 8 PM8 AM) and can include working on weekends, holidays, and emergency call-ins when weather conditions are ideal. Snowmakers must also have a willingness to flex up or down in scheduled work hours (based on business needs).

Employment Status

The holder of this position is considered to be a seasonal, part-time employee and will not be eligible for Company benefits other than those which are required by law. Other benefits, such as those outlined in the employee handbook, will be provided. This position at Bousquet Mountain will be consistent with the concept of employment At Will in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which means there is no guarantee of employment, and both the employer and employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time with or without reason and with or without notice.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

$17 - $20 per hour