What Does a Ski Lift Mechanic Do?

Ski Lift Mechanics install, inspect, repair and maintain ski lifts and associated equipment to ensure their effective use and safe operation.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Reading and interpreting performance codes and standards
  • Inspecting ski lifts and their components
  • Repairing, replacing and modifying ski lift systems and related systems
  • Performing tests on the operation and safety of equipment and components
  • Coordinating projects involving the planning and organizing of the construction of a ski lift 
  • Documenting work activities as well as writing operational reports
  • Acquiring an excellent theoretical and practical knowledge of electrical, hydraulic and mechanical systems

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

To successfully become a Ski Lift Mechanic you should complete Grade 12, preferably with senior credits in Math, Communication and Physics, as well as completing a 2-3 year Apprenticeship program including 480 hours of in-school training.

What’s Your Future as a Ski Lift Mechanic?

Ski Lift Mechanics usually work with Ski Resort owners, often outdoors in cold weather, full time and often year round if they are involved in project coordination. Fully qualified Ski Lift Mechanics may seek opportunities to travel to other provinces in the country with resorts. Ski Lift Mechanics may go on to become Mechanic supervisors or become involved in other areas of tourism/resort operation. Potential employers include:

  • Ski Resort owners
  • Ski Lift Operators
  • Ski Clubs
  • Ski Lift Equipment Manufacturers
  • Self-Employment
  • Government regulatory departments

Wage Rate

  • Apprentices generally earn substantially less than Journey people, however as your skill and expertise increase, so does your wage
  • Fully qualified Ski Lift Mechanics generally earn $15-19 per hour

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Working as a Ski Lift Mechanic For You?

Are you physically fit with good manual dexterity and mechanical abilities?

Yes      No

Can you work outdoors in cold weather, weekends or evenings?

Yes      No

Can you look at drawings and blueprints and visualize how things come together?

Yes      No

Are you good at using numbers and performing calculations?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy working with people?

Yes      No

Can you work well independently or as a member of a team?

Yes      No

Can you read and write reports in order to communicate effectively with supervisors, co-workers and Resort owners?

Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as a Ski Lift Mechanic may be for You!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • Ski and Snow Board Technician
  • Ski/Snow Board Instructor
  • Industrial Millwright/Mechanic