Mountain Operations Assistant Director - FT chez Bear Creek Mountain Resort

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

The ideal Mountain Operations Assistant Director is a hands-on, high-drive leader to support the overall management and coordination of mountain operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality experiences for guests and team members. This role works closely with the Mountain Operations Director to oversee lift operations, snowmaking, grooming, terrain parks, vehicle maintenance, and ski patrol, while fostering teamwork and operational excellence across all departments.

This leadership role is primarily responsible for supporting aspects of key mountain operation. The right leader will work closely with other resort departments to assist in optimizing operations, maintaining budgetary discipline, and enhancing guest satisfaction while upholding Bear Creek and Southern Management cultural standards as well as essential environmental sustainability and safety standards.

WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU:

• Promote and foster a culture of team member engagement and active communication throughout the resort.

Operations Management

• Support the daily management of mountain operations, including lift operations, snowmaking, grooming, terrain parks, slopes and trails, ski patrol, and vehicle maintenance.
• Assist with ensuring timely and efficient opening and closing of all mountain facilities.
• Responsible for managing Base Operations to include Guest Services, Mountain Activity Center, Mountain Camp, Snowsports and Rentals.
• Help implement best practices for snow quality, terrain management, and skier flow optimization.
• Monitor and help maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including lift operations, safety codes, state inspections, and environmental policies.
• Communicate operational updates, challenges, and accomplishments to the Mountain Operations Director.

Team Leadership & Staff Development

• Assist in leading and mentoring department managers and supervisors within Mountain Operations.
• Support the development and delivery of training programs that promote safety, operational excellence, and outstanding guest service.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and professionalism.
• Participate in seasonal hiring, workforce planning, and scheduling to ensure efficient coverage and staffing levels.

Budgeting & Financial Oversight

• Assist the Mountain Operations Director with the development and management of departmental budgets, focusing on cost control and operational efficiency.
• Help monitor expenditures related to equipment, staffing, and infrastructure, and suggest improvements to enhance quality and reduce costs.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial performance across mountain departments.
• Collaborate with other resort areas to identify cross-departmental efficiencies and resource-sharing opportunities.

Equipment & Infrastructure Management

• Support the maintenance and operation of ski lifts, fleet vehicles, snowmaking systems, and other mountain infrastructure.
• Assist with planning and execution of capital improvement projects such as lift upgrades, snowmaking expansion, and terrain park enhancements.
• Help coordinate with vendors and contractors for major repairs, equipment purchases, and infrastructure projects.
• Support energy procurement and load management programs in coordination with the Mountain Operations Director, including oversight of backup power systems.
• Ensure safety standards are consistently maintained for both guests and team members.
• Work closely with Ski Patrol to assist in risk management strategies and emergency response planning.
• Help ensure compliance with OSHA, ANSI, NEC, and other applicable safety regulations.
• Monitor weather conditions and assist with implementation of safety protocols as needed.

Guest Experience & Resort Collaboration

• Partner with Ski School, Food & Beverage, Guest Services, and Lodging departments to support an exceptional and cohesive guest experience.
• Assist with mountain operations for resort events, races, and competitions.
• Collect and share guest feedback to identify and recommend improvements to grooming, terrain offerings, and lift efficiency.

Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship

• Support the implementation of sustainability initiatives focused on energy-efficient snowmaking, waste reduction, and water conservation.
• Collaborate with environmental partners and internal teams to help achieve resort sustainability goals.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by Mountain Operations Director