Patrol Director - Aspen Highlands

With roots dating back to 1946, and a division of Aspen One, Aspen Skiing Company owns and operates four mountains—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Aspen Skiing Company takes pride in the coexistence of resort, community, and the environment, which exemplifies its values of living fully, honoring people and place, taking the long view, and pursuing excellence in everything it does.

Aspen Skiing Company is where guests from around the world come to renew the mind, body, and spirit through unforgettable experiences at the confluence of nature, culture, and recreation.

Aspen Skiing Company also owns and operates the award-winning Aspen Snowmass Ski & Snowboard School, Four Mountain Sports rental and retail shops, and a collection of sustainably sourced on-mountain food and beverage outlets. Aspen Snowmass encompasses 5,680 acres of skiable terrain across four mountains, more than 40 ski lifts, and more than 410 trails. For more information, visit  or follow @aspensnowmass on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

Please note that all official communications from the Talent Acquisition or Human Resources team are sent from email addresses within the noti, , , ,  &  domains.

Aspen Highlands is more than an iconic mountain. It is home to a ski patrol with a long-standing reputation for professionalism, mountain expertise, and operational excellence. From managing complex avalanche mitigation programs to stewarding legendary terrain like Highland Bowl, the Ski Patrol Director has the unique opportunity to lead an experienced team while shaping the future of one of the industry's most respected patrol organizations.

The Patrol Director provides strategic and operational leadership for all aspects of patrol on the mountain, ensuring safe, efficient, and guest focused mountain operations. This role leads, develops, and inspires a high performing team while partnering across the resort to deliver exceptional experiences, respond to changing mountain conditions, and uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and service. Through thoughtful leadership, sound decision making, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the Ski Patrol Director fosters a culture where employees thrive and guests can confidently enjoy the mountain.

This position reports to the Mountain Manager.

• The salary range for this position is $80,000 - $95,000. Actual pay will be dependent on budget and experience; all our salaried roles are eligible for bonus.

Job Posting Deadline:
Applications for this position will be accepted until August 7, 2026..

• Lead all day to day Ski Patrol operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and exceptional mountain operations
• Direct mountain response to operational issues, incidents, emergencies, and changing conditions while maintaining clear communication with resort leadership and operational partners
• Partner with local, state, and federal agencies as needed to coordinate responses to on mountain incidents
• Oversee daily snow safety operations, avalanche mitigation, trail maintenance, and hazard management in coordination with internal departments
• Maintain expert knowledge of Aspen Highlands terrain, lift systems, communication networks, operational priorities, and mountain hazards
• Lead lift evacuation planning, training, and execution, ensuring compliance with established procedures and serving as an operational leader during evacuations
• Provide leadership for recruiting, hiring, onboarding, performance management, coaching, employee development, and disciplinary actions while maintaining timely and accurate documentation
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and exceptional guest service through visible leadership and consistent communication
• Maintain a thorough understanding of the Ski Patrol collective bargaining agreement and ensure compliance with all applicable provisions
• Ensure accurate payroll administration and partner with resort leadership to develop, manage, and monitor departmental budgets
• Understand medical, legal, and risk management considerations related to mountain operations, including the care and transportation of injured guests
• Other duties as assigned

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High school diploma or equivalent required;
  Bachelor's degree preferred
• Current Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification with current American Heart Association CPR certification required
• Minimum of five years of progressive leadership experience in ski patrol, mountain operations, emergency services, or a related field required

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with the ability to lead clear, timely communication in high-pressure operational environments
• Demonstrated technical expertise in ski patrol operations, mountain safety systems, and emergency…