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- Tasks: Operate grooming machinery to prepare iconic ski runs and maintain Terrain Parks.
- Company: Join Vail Resorts Australia at Mount Hotham, a premier alpine destination.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff lift passes, discounts, free lessons, and wellness programs.
- Why this job: Experience the thrill of working on challenging terrain and making unforgettable mountain memories.
- Qualifications: Minimum two seasons’ experience with snow grooming machinery and strong snow awareness.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for growth and camaraderie.
The predicted salary is between 2000 - 2800 £ per month.
Location: Hotham
Employment Type: Winter Seasonal
Season Commences: June 2026 (subject to snow conditions)
Application Period: February – March 2026 (or earlier if filled)
Reach Your Peak. Shape the Steepest Terrain. Own the Night at Hotham. When the lifts stop spinning and the alpine village goes quiet, Mount Hotham’s grooming team gets to work. As part of Vail Resorts Australia, our Groomer Operators are the behind-the-scenes professionals who prepare some of Australia’s most challenging and iconic terrain. If you thrive in demanding conditions, enjoy precision machinery, and want to play a key role in delivering unforgettable mountain experiences — this is your moment.
Your Impact on the Mountain
Situated high in the Victorian Alps, Mount Hotham is renowned for its dramatic scenery, steep pistes, and technical terrain. With 320 hectares of skiable terrain — including 245 hectares of lifted terrain — Hotham operates an extensive and capable grooming fleet. This includes Prinoth Bison X and PistenBully winch cats, PB300W, PB400W, PB400 Park Pro, PB400 Free cats, and push cats supporting snowmaking operations. We are seeking Groomer Operators across all disciplines, with a strong emphasis on experienced Winch Cat Operators to prepare Hotham’s steeper runs. Operators are also required to support two Terrain Parks and a Rider/Boarder X track that attract elite training teams from both the Southern and Northern Hemispheres.
The Night Shift Legends: What You’ll Be Doing
- Groom and maintain ski runs to deliver safe, consistent, and high-quality snow surfaces for guests.
- Operate winch and non-winch grooming machinery across steep and varied alpine terrain.
- Assist in the construction, shaping, and ongoing maintenance of Terrain Parks and freestyle features.
- Apply snow management techniques to enhance snow quality and maximise longevity throughout the season.
- Work primarily overnight in challenging weather and snow conditions.
- Support snowmaking and other mountain operations as required.
- Take ownership of machine care, safe operation, and efficient grooming outcomes.
What You’ll Bring to the Cab
- Minimum two seasons’ experience operating snow grooming machinery.
- Strong snow awareness and the ability to adapt to changing weather and surface conditions.
- A safety-first mindset and commitment to established procedures.
- A sharp eye for detail and pride in producing high-quality grooming outcomes.
- The ability to remain calm, focused, and adaptable during overnight operations.
- Clear communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented approach.
Why Mount Hotham?
- Work on some of Australia’s most challenging and rewarding alpine terrain.
- Access to an extensive and diverse grooming fleet, including winch cats.
- A Vail Resorts Australia Staff Lift Pass and up to 40% off food, rental, and retail outlets.
- Free group lessons with qualified snowsports instructors.
- Staff events, training opportunities, wellness programs, and employee recognition initiatives.
- A skilled, passionate grooming team that values professionalism, safety, and camaraderie.
- A workplace where you’re encouraged to learn, contribute, and grow.
What We’re About
Vail Resorts Australia operates some of Australia’s most iconic alpine destinations. Our teams bring the mountains to life through professionalism, passion, and genuine care for every guest. Guided by our values — Be Inclusive, Do Good, Be Safe, Have Fun, Serve Others, Drive Value, Do Right — we create workplaces where people feel supported, respected, and part of something bigger.
Your Next Steps
Excited to join the team? Apply now through our Career Center! If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at human.resources@vailresorts.com.au. We’re here to support you. We love your enthusiasm — please ensure this role aligns with your interests and availability before submitting your application.
Accommodation Note
Staff accommodation may be available for successful applicants and is prioritised for full-season team members. Please indicate in your application whether you require accommodation. Apply now and be part of the crew that prepares Mount Hotham for first tracks — one night shift at a time.
Grooming Operator - Hotham (Winter 2026) employer: Hotham Skiing Company
Contact Detail:
Hotham Skiing Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Grooming Operator - Hotham (Winter 2026)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the mountain! Familiarise yourself with Mount Hotham's terrain and grooming needs. This will not only help you stand out in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or past Groomer Operators. They can provide insider tips on what it’s really like working at Hotham and might even give you a heads-up on the application process!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your snow management techniques and machinery knowledge. Being able to discuss your experience confidently will impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Hotham.
We think you need these skills to ace Grooming Operator - Hotham (Winter 2026)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your previous experience operating snow grooming machinery. We want to see that you've got the skills and know-how to handle the steep and varied terrain at Hotham.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your passion for the role shines through without any fluff!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to tailor your application to the specific role of Grooming Operator. Mention how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the job description — it shows us you’ve done your homework!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our Career Center! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hotham Skiing Company
✨Know Your Machinery
Familiarise yourself with the specific grooming machines mentioned in the job description, like the Prinoth Bison X and PistenBully models. Being able to discuss your experience with these machines will show that you’re not just a good operator, but also someone who understands the tools of the trade.
✨Showcase Your Snow Awareness
Prepare to discuss how you adapt to changing weather and snow conditions. Think of examples from your past experiences where you had to make quick decisions based on snow quality or weather changes. This will demonstrate your strong snow awareness and ability to handle challenging conditions.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since this role requires collaboration with other team members, be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team. Highlight your communication skills and how they contribute to a safe and efficient working environment, especially during night shifts.
✨Demonstrate Your Safety Mindset
Safety is paramount in this role, so come prepared to discuss your commitment to safety procedures. Share specific instances where you prioritised safety in your previous roles, and how you ensure that both you and your team operate safely while grooming.