Lift Operations Manager

Sugar Bowl is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and results-driven Lift Operations Manager to lead the daily operations of our lift system. This role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and seamless lift operations across the resort, while fostering a strong team culture and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

We're looking for a strategic, hands-on, and highly organized leader who is decisive, adaptable, and team-focused, with the ability to motivate staff and manage operations in a fast-paced mountain environment. From staffing and training to safety oversight and operational execution, you'll play a critical role in keeping the mountain running smoothly.

Why Sugar Bowl?

Sugar Bowl Resort has been proudly independent for over 80 years and is one of the oldest ski resorts in California. Situated atop beautiful Donner Summit, Sugar Bowl has a storied past with ties to Austrian ski culture, Hollywood and Walt Disney. This special community helped bring skiing to "sunny California" since December 1939. Since then, it continues to attract adventurous winter sports enthusiasts alike.

Who You Are:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Energetic, friendly, and outgoing with strong customer service skills
• Collaborative and able to work effectively across departments
• A proactive self-starter with sound judgment and decision-making skills
• Able to manage tasks independently with minimal supervision
• Positive, motivating leader with strong team management skills
• Safety- and service-oriented, with a commitment to excellence
• Able to ski or snowboard groomed runs (intermediate to advanced level)

What You'll do:

• Oversee all daily lift operations, including setup, snow removal, ramp maintenance, and shutdown
• Hire, train, schedule, and motivate Lift Operations staff
• Lead the Lift Operations Supervisors, Trainers, and Leads.
• Oversee the development and implementation of pre-season and in-season training programs
• Ensure all team members are on time, in uniform, and meeting performance expectations
• Maintain department supplies, tools, and operational readiness
• Monitor staffing levels and manage expenses in alignment with budget goals
• Oversee Ticket Checking and pass issue resolution
• Conduct regular safety meetings and follow up on incidents and injuries
• Respond to ramp-related incidents and ensure proper reporting
• Address guest service situations professionally and efficiently
• Oversee lift facility inspections, including ramps, shacks, and locker rooms
• Ensure lifts open on schedule and operate efficiently throughout the day
• Maintain ramp conditions during storms and spring melt, including rebuilds
• Participate in and manage snow day operations
• Operate snowmobiles and coordinate transportation as needed
• Collaborate closely with Lift Maintenance, Ticketing, Security, and Resort Operations teams
• Implement and oversee the Kids on Lifts Under 51" program, including monthly refresher training

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow, wind, and cold temperatures
• Frequent shoveling and snow removal; ability to operate a snowblower (if trained)
• Ability to stand and remain active for extended periods (8+ hours per shift)
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. regularly
• Capability to perform physically demanding tasks, including shoveling and ramp maintenance
• Ability to safely operate equipment such as snowmobiles

Employee Winter Benefits:

• Employer sponsored 401k plan after 1,000 worked hours and one (1) year of service
• Paid sick time
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Free ski and tubing passes
• Free ski passes for eligible dependents
• 50% off food at our restaurants
• Free group ski and snowboard lessons
• discounted lift tickets for family and friends
• Lift ticket discounts at multiple resorts including 24 Mountain Collective destinations
• Hotel discounts
• Free participating resort skiing/riding reciprocal programs

Sugar Bowl Resort believes that all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate against its employees or applicants because of race, color, hair, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender orientation, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, citizenship, veteran status, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation. Equal employment opportunity will be extended to all persons in all aspects of the employer-employee relationship, including recruitment, hiring, upgrading, training, promotion, transfer, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination.