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Lift Operator
Reports to: Head of Technical Operations
Location: Cairngorm Mountain
Role Overview
Purpose of job
The Lift Operator plays a key role in the safe and efficient operation of Cairngorm Mountain’s surface lift network, including T-bar, Magic Carpet and Poma lifts. The Lift Operator is responsible for maintaining safe and customer-friendly lift areas, and supporting wider mountain operations through duties such as snow clearing around buildings and along the funicular track.
The role is hands-on, outdoors, and customer-facing, requiring a strong commitment to safety, teamwork and service delivery in a challenging mountain environment. Please note, we require candidates to be at least intermediate level skiers or snowboarders.
Pay Rate: £12.98 per hour
Full-time seasonal positions available, applications for part-time and weekend relief may be considered.
Roles and Responsibilities
The Lift Operator is accountable to the Head of Technical Operations and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of allocated surface lifts. The role ensures lifts are operated safely, efficiently and in line with all health and safety and operational protocols, while providing a positive experience for all mountain users.
Lift Operators contribute to the overall running of the Resort by maintaining lift areas, assisting with snow management and supporting other operational tasks as required.
The Lift Operator is responsible for:
Duties and Responsibilities
- To operate T-bar, Magic Carpet, and Poma surface lifts safely and efficiently in accordance with company procedures and manufacturer guidelines.
- To monitor lift users, provide clear instructions and assist customers of varying abilities when loading and unloading.
- To maintain lift queues, loading areas and surrounding terrain in a safe, tidy and customer-friendly condition.
- To understand and observe the protocols when using the 2-way radio system and communicate effectively regarding lift status, weather conditions, and operational issues.
- To undertake snow clearing and preparation around lift stations, buildings and on the funicular track as required.
- To respond appropriately to lift stoppages, incidents, or emergencies, following established procedures.
- To assist with other mountain operational duties when required, including general snow management and site maintenance tasks.
- To observe and comply with all Health & Safety requirements, risk assessments, safe systems of work and mountain operation protocols.
- To undertake any other reasonable duties as may, from time to time, be required.
People Management
- Be polite, approachable and professional with all customers, mountain users and colleagues.
- Provide clear, calm and helpful communication to ensure a positive visitor experience.
- Work positively as part of a team, supporting colleagues during busy or challenging conditions.
- Attend team briefings, training sessions and operational updates.
- Participate in annual performance management and development processes such as Performance and Development (PAD) Reviews.
Other
- Ensuring full compliance with Health & Safety procedures, operational protocols and company policies.
- Maintaining continued professional development and willingness to learn new operational skills.
- Working outdoors in a changeable mountain environment in all weather conditions.
Person Specification
Experience
This role would suit someone who enjoys working outdoors, has a practical, safety-focused mindset and is comfortable working in a physically demanding mountain environment. The successful candidate will be reliable, customer-focused and able to work as part of a close-knit operational team.
The role requires flexible working to meet business needs, including a 7-day operation, early starts, variable hours and working during adverse weather conditions.
- An interest in snowsports, mountain operations or outdoor work.
- Experience in a customer-facing role is desirable but not essential.
- Willingness to undertake required lift operation and safety training.
Skills
- Good communication skills, particularly when giving clear instructions to customers.
- Strong awareness of health and safety.
- Ability to follow procedures and work to operational guidelines.
- Practical, hands-on approach to work.
- Ability to work independently when required and as part of a wider team.
Personal Attributes/Behaviours
- Reliable, punctual and safety-conscious.
- Calm under pressure with a responsible attitude.
- Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in winter conditions.
- Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced operational environment.
- Willing to learn and develop new skills.
- A positive team player committed to company values.
Company Background and Culture / Location Overview
Cairngorm Mountain, managed by Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Ltd, is a popular snowsports destination in Scotland, located within the Cairngorms National Park, and has been offering snowsports for over 50 years. In winter, the Resort operates as a commercial ski area, welcoming up to 120,000 skiing and snowboarding visitors during peak periods.
The Resort covers 1,418 hectares and is an internationally recognised area of scientific interest, with unique natural habitats and wildlife protected by legislation. In summer, the mountain becomes a major visitor attraction, offering guided walks, family activities and access to the mountain environment, attracting circa 200,000 visitors annually.