Tow operator

Hickory Hills Recreation Area has been owned and operated as a ski area and municipal park by the City of Traverse City since 1952 and has been an iconic natural setting within the Traverse City micropolitan area. Hickory Hills offers 16 runs for skiers and snowboarders, including a bunny hill with a conveyor lift. There are a number of special qualities related to Hickory Hills, but the legacy lies within the hundreds of youth in our area who have grown up on the hill. The memories made at Hickory Hills, learning to ski, spending time with family, and meandering through the snow-covered hills with friends, are shared amongst so many and will last a lifetime. The City’s small, but mighty, hill has served as an authentic sense of home and will continue to do so for generations to come. Additional four-season recreation is offered with an existing hiking trail network and an award-winning Disc Golf course with two 18-hole layouts. This position comes with a free ski pass for the season, and it's a great place to work!

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Hickory Hills Manager or other designated staff, operates ski tow rope ensuring safe, efficient uphill transport of skiers.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Provide a safe, controlled and friendly guest experience

2. Assist guests with loading and unloading from the tow.

3. Monitor rope area for safety hazards or misuse.

4. Operate the ski tow rope safely and efficiently.

5. Maintain clear loading and unloading zones by removing snow or obstacles.

6. Communicate with other hill staff to ensure smooth operations.

7. Stop or start tow equipment as needed for safety.

8. Provide friendly, helpful customer service to skiers and riders.

9. Report equipment issues or safety concerns to a supervisor.

10. Perform light shoveling or basic maintenance around the tow area

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

- Must be at least 18 years of age, no prior experience required, training provided.

- Ability to follow safety instructions and basic operating procedures.

- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

- Reliable and punctual.

- Good communication and customer service skills.

- Must have basic mechanical knowledge and skills

- Must be able to use good judgment and make quick, sound decisions to prevent accidents or improve safety

- Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with staff and represent the Department/City in a positive, courteous, professional and friendly manner with all internal and external customers at all times

RELEVANT DETAILS

Temporary/Seasonal, any day of the week/wknd, typical ski time hours, $16–$21 per hour.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please Submit a completed application to the City of Traverse City Human Resource Office, 400 Boardman Avenue, Traverse City, MI 49684 or via email to [email protected] application link:

PHYSICAL DEMAND and WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position requires working outdoors in all weather conditions, including cold, wind, snow, and sun. Employees will frequently stand, walk, bend, and reach, and must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds, such as snow tools or light equipment. The job may involve occasional shoveling, moving snow, and working around moving machinery like the tow rope. Staff will work on uneven or slippery surfaces and need to maintain alertness during repetitive tasks. Shifts may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, and employees must be able to respond quickly to safety situations.

Traverse City is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Job Type: Temporary

Pay: $16.00 - $21.00 per hour

Work Location: In person