Assistant Avalanche Forecaster

Assistant Avalanche Forecaster

Job Description

Class/Group:Hourly / Non-Exempt / Group 3

Reports to:Patrol Director / Snow Safety Supervisor / Mt. Operations Director

Pay Range: $22.50-$27.00/hr

Supervises:Assigned Staff / Avalanche Control Crew

Status:Winter Seasonal

To enrich the lives of our community by providing joy and freedom through exploration

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JOB SUMMARY:

The Assistant Avalanche Forecaster is responsible for monitoring avalanche potential around the resort, conducting avalanche control, recording weather and snowpack conditions, and producing daily hazard forecasts using InfoEx. This seasonal position assists in training and supervising crews, enforcing mountain safety, and maintaining operational readiness across all ski patrol and avalanche mitigation functions.

Qualifications

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES/TASKS:

• Avalanche Forecasting & Control: Monitor avalanche potential around the resort, determine when control work is necessary, implement control processes, assess terrain closures, and produce daily avalanche hazard forecasts using InfoEx.
• Weather & Snowpack Documentation: Monitor and record weather and snowpack conditions through accepted best practices; complete all required documentation (patroller route history, control route sheets, inventory) and update digital resources for staff.
• Personnel Training & Supervision: Provide proper training and coordination for employees involved in avalanche work, demonstrate safe avalanche control practices, and supervise assigned crews.
• Explosives Handling & Interagency Collaboration: Assist with the use and storage of explosives and interact with external agencies such as NWAC and the Chelan County Sheriff's Office.
• Patrol Duties & Safety Advocacy: Perform all other Ski Patroller duties, including medical response and patient transport, high-angle rescue, hill maintenance, maintain required certifications, and advocate safe mountain behavior by upholding the Skier's Responsibility Code and Guest Safety Guidelines.

SKILLS PREFERRED (OR REQUIRED):

• Terrain & Route Knowledge: Extensive knowledge and history of avalanche path terrain around the resort, particularly within operational boundaries; Mission Ridge route leader preferred.
• Skiing & Technical Proficiency: Proficient skiing ability to navigate all mountain terrain safely under varying conditions.
• Leadership & Adaptability: Demonstrated success in training, logistics, and crew supervision, with comfort navigating the changing dynamics of a seasonal business.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

Minimum 3 years of patrol experience at Mission Ridge or equivalent. Pro 1 Avalanche Certification or higher preferred. Must possess or have the ability to obtain a Washington State Blasters License. Current medical certification required (WFR, OEC, EMT, Medic, RN). Be insurable to operate company vehicles/machinery.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Requires high physical endurance and proficient skiing ability across steep and rugged off-piste mountain terrain. Must be capable of lifting and transporting heavy explosives/equipment (minimum 50 lbs), standing/walking for extended periods, and maintaining sharp mental focus and clear communication during hazardous, high-stress field conditions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Outdoor alpine mountain environment subject to extreme cold, high winds, heavy snowfall, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Involves early morning shifts, intense physical labor, exposure to explosive materials, and collaborative teamwork across patrol and mountain operations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Assign each category:Rarely (0–12%),Occasionally(12–33%),Frequently(34–66%),Regularly(67–100%)

Seeing: [Regularly]

-Must be able to read reports and use computer

Hearing: [Regularly]

-Must be able to hear well enough to communicate with coworkers.

Standing/Walking: [Regularly]

-Consistent and constant standing and walking while in operation.

Climbing/Stooping/Kneeling: [Regularly]

-The position requires the ability to stand, walk, climb, balance, kneel, stoop, and crouch for extended periods. 

Lifting/Pulling/Pushing: [Regularly]

-Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds

Fingering/Grasping/Feeling: [Regularly]

-Must be able to write, type, and use phone system

Note:  The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skill required of personnel so classified.  Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer. Final candidates may be subject to background screening.