Lift Technician
Position: Lift Technician
Internal Title: Mountain Mechanic
Location: Granite Peak
Department: Mountain Operations
Report To: Mountain Operations Manager
Type: Full Time Year-Round
Compensation: based heavily on experience and skill level
- Lift Tech I (Entry) Wage: $21-$24
- Lift Tech II (Intermediate) Wage: $24-$28
- Lift Tech III (Advance) Wage: $28-$34
Benefits: 401K | Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance | HSA (Health Savings Account) | PTO (Paid Time Off) | Season Pass
TO APPLY PLEASE SEND YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO Caitlin@midwestfamilyskiresorts.com
Company Overview:
Midwest Family Ski Resorts (MFSR) represents three of the Midwest’s oldest and largest mountain resorts: Granite Peak (WI), Snowriver (MI), and Lutsen Mountains (MN). As a multi-generational, family-owned and operated collection of ski areas, we pride ourselves on welcoming Midwest families, friends, and visitors to the slopes. Our culture is grounded in team-focused values, with team members who take initiative, adapt to change, and collaborate to create great experiences. Together, we make memorable moments that keep communities and guests returning year after year.
Role Overview:
This position ensures the safe and reliable mechanical operation of lifts, with emphasis on proficiency, instruction, safety, and leadership in all areas of Lift Maintenance. This department is responsible for the safe transport of guests and employees on the mountain and performs skilled work in including, maintaining and/or repairing fixed and detachable chairlifts, surface lifts, tows and conveyors and their related systems and other duties as assigned by management. Will work under the direction of the Mountain Manager but will be expected to present the knowledge and skills necessary to work independently. Duties are performed in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor environments in all weather conditions.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Lift Systems Maintenance & Repair
- Perform mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and structural inspections and repairs on all lift systems, including fixed grip and detachable chairlifts, gondolas, surface lifts, conveyors, and rope tows.
- Diagnose and resolve malfunctions in electrical control systems, VFDs, diesel engines, PLCs, and hydraulic systems.
- Conduct and document regular preventative maintenance and annual testing in accordance with ANSI B77.1 standards and manufacturer specifications.
- Read and interpret electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic schematics, service manuals, and diagrams.
- Complete required maintenance documentation, daily logs, work orders, and service records.
- Startup/Shut down and secure lift systems safely at the beginning/ end of each operational day.
Operational Response & Emergency Support
- Respond immediately to lift downtime or mechanical issues; determine root causes and perform corrective action efficiently.
- Participate in and lead lift evacuation procedures and rescue operations.
- Support lift operator and patrol teams during emergency scenarios.
Training & Leadership
- Assist with training seasonal staff and lift operators.
- Provide operational instructions on safe lift operations, including start-up and shut-down procedures.
- Maintain a safe working environment and ensure compliance with all safety protocols, PPE use, and fall protection standards.
- Assist lift operation supervisor during daily operations as needed.
Cross-Departmental Collaboration
- Coordinate with Snowmaking, Grooming, and Vehicle Maintenance teams on shared equipment and operational goals.
- Operate snowmobiles, ATVs, and other resort vehicles for transport and field service.
- Assist snowmaking crews with equipment transport, snow gun relocation, hose management, and snow quality testing during early season operations.
Additional Responsibilities
- Operate heavy machinery and off-road vehicles in rugged, snowy, and mountainous terrain.
- Keep maintenance shops, lift shacks, and building grounds clean, safe, and organized.
- Support the setup and takedown of snowmaking infrastructure and seasonal safety features.
- Perform duties in physically demanding and hazardous conditions, including at heights and in inclement weather.
- Additional duties as Assigned
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license.
- Minimum 3 years of lift maintenance or similar mechanical/electrical experience.
- Proficiency with troubleshooting low-voltage systems, VFDs, PLCs, and HMI interfaces.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with 480V and 277V high-voltage systems.
- Ability to read technical diagrams and use diagnostic tools and meters.
- Ability to lift 50–100 lbs., climb towers, and work at heights in all weather conditions.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; detail-oriented record-keeping.
- Ability to work early mornings, late nights, weekends, holidays, and during emergency situations.
Preferred
- 3+ years' experience with detachable lift systems and manufacturers such as Doppelmayr, Leitner-Poma, or Riblet.
- Graduate of a ski area management or lift maintenance training program.
- Experience with OSHA and ANSI B77.1 compliance procedures.
- Certification in electrical, hydraulic, or lift maintenance systems.
- Avalanche safety or high-angle rescue training is a plus.
Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities as needed. In addition, as we are a recreational business, availability on peak holiday timeframes and weekends is required.