Hill Operations/Lift Operator

Posting number: 2026-00183

Department: Parks & Recreation

Division: Chapman Hill Ski Area - 4552

Job classification: Lift Operator-Part Time

Posting type: Open

Categories: Recreation, Parks and Recreation

Summary

Become a Hill Operations / Lift Operator at Chapman Ski Hill andsupport the overall flow, safety, and operation of rope tows. In this role, you will help provide a safe, organized, and welcoming experience for visitors by monitoring lift operations, maintaining equipment and hill work areas, and responding appropriately to issues or incidents.

City of Durango’s Trail to Excellence
The City of Durango is a purpose-driven organization with more than 400 full-time and 300 part-time and seasonal employees across 15 departments, all working together to provide a wide range of services that keep our community running every day. From public safety and utilities to parks and recreation, our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality services that enhance the lives of all who live, work, and visit here.

At the city, we focus on continually improving how we work and serve the community. This effort is called the Trail to Excellence (T2E), and every employee plays a part in it. Whether you work outdoors, in an office, or lead a team, your daily efforts connect to the city’s mission of providing excellent service and reaching the city’s vision of being a multigenerational community that is authentic, diverse, engaged, thriving, and environmentally responsible. The full details of this vision are outlined in the city’s strategic plan.

As a member of our team, your work will be meaningful because:

• Your ideas help shape citywide improvements.
• The work you do ties directly into measurable goals.
• You'll be part of a system that values collaboration, innovation, and results.

We're looking for team members who share our core values of teamwork, dependability, professionalism, service, respect, innovation, and wellbeing — and who are excited to make a difference in the community we serve.

Examples of duties

What You’ll Do in This Role:

• Prepare and maintain the lift service and loading areas to support safe rope tow operations.
• Ensure required signage is properly placed at lift loading and exit areas.
• Monitor entrance and loading areas to ensure safe use of lifts.
• Meet, greet, and check tickets for ski hill patrons.
• Inspect safety gates and ensure proper operation.
• Complete daily lift operator checklists and review daily announcements prior to scheduled shifts.
• Attend required staff meetings and training sessions.
• Report to work on time and remain on duty until all assigned tasks are completed.
• Report operational issues, safety concerns, or incidents to the Recreation Supervisor.
• Submit reports and documentation accurately and on time.
• Maintain equipment and supplies used in lift operations.
• Perform thorough cleaning of lift areas and facilities at the end of each day.
• Administer appropriate first aid when needed and complete accident reports for any accidents or emergencies.
• Dress appropriately for assigned duties and weather conditions.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

You Have:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications.
• Knowledge of ski hill operations.

You Will Succeed in This Role If You:

• Can communicate clearly and effectively with the public, coworkers, and supervisors.
• Are able to operate required equipment safely and responsibly.
• Maintain the physical condition needed for outdoor work, including periods of standing, walking, lifting, and operating equipment.
• Maintain the mental focus needed to work safely in cold temperatures and physically active environments.

View the full Lift Operator-Part Time job description here.