Equipment Operator — Mountain Operations

Job overview

The Equipment Operator — Mountain Operations role is onsite in Keystone, CO, with pay of $20–$23 per hour. It is a winter seasonal 2026/2027 position with full-time hours available. The operator supports Vail Resorts’ mountain operations and facility maintenance. The role operates equipment and vehicles for mountain and utility repair, maintenance, and construction. Routine slope maintenance, equipment monitoring, and troubleshooting help maintain resort facilities and support mountain operations.

What you'll do

• Provide routine slope maintenance
• operate equipment used by the Mountain Operations team, including skid steers, forklifts, and backhoes
• monitor equipment and communicate issues to Vehicle Maintenance
• perform physical labor
• troubleshoot equipment problems
• work as part of a team
• assist with training new and developing operators.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

equipment operator

mountain operations

keystone co

onsite

$20–$23/hr

winter seasonal 2026/2027

full-time hours available

skid steer

forklift

backhoe

weekend and holiday schedule

housing available

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Free employee passes and ski lessons
• discounted lift tickets for friends and family
• discounts on lodging, food, gear, and shuttles
• 401(k)
• employee assistance program
• training and professional development
• referral program.

Why this role

Requires a valid driver’s license, previous heavy-equipment experience, guest-service experience, English fluency, and ability to work outdoors in a high-alpine environment; housing is available.

About the employer

Vail Resorts is hiring for this role. Industry: Skiing Facilities. Sector: 71.