Ski Lift Operator

Also called: Lifty, Lift Attendant

Runs ski lifts, helps riders load and unload safely, and keeps the lift area clear.

A day in the life

You start before sunrise shoveling the lift ramp, then spend the day helping skiers onto chairs and stopping the lift if someone falls. Perks include a free season pass. Many young people spend a winter as a lifty to live in a mountain town.

Pay over a career

Starting
$26k
Typical
$33k
High
$42k

Seasonal; usually includes a free ski pass.

Training

High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. No education required; resort training.

Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.

Outlook

Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years). Grouped with amusement and recreation attendants.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk for 10 years. Lift controls are automated, but safety rules require people to load riders and watch the line.

Could start right away

Age 16+. One way to start: Apply in early fall at nearby ski areas; small local hills often hire 16-year-olds, big resorts want 18

Start now, in high school

Classes: Physical education, Health, Spanish.

Official data: O*NET occupation 39-3091.

More Adventure & Outdoor Tourism careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.