Nordic Guide - Winter 2025/2026 - Lone Mountain Ranch : Job Details

Lone Mountain Ranch (LMR), situated on 148 acres in beautiful Big Sky, Montana, was first homesteaded in 1915 and has long been recognized as one of the premier guest ranch resorts in the country. The property consists of 30 rooms located within 24 unique cabins as well as the Horn & Cantle Restaurant and Saloon, the Ranch Hall, the Outpost, equestrian facilities, event venues and meeting spaces. A National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, LMR is listed on the National Registry of the Historic Places, a member of the Dude Rancher's Association, and once voted the #1 Nordic Ski Resort in North America by Cross Country Skier Magazine, LMR offers authentic luxury accommodations, genuine Montana cuisine, exceptional service, and a stunning array of outdoor recreational pursuits. Combine these attributes with proximity to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky Resort, as well as Bozeman Airport, and we believe the LMR guest experience is unlike any other in the American West. LMR VISION Lone Mountain Ranch is a destination where guests disconnect from the world, while connecting with others through unforgettable adventures in a natural setting. Moments are crafted through discovery, exceptional people, fun activities, and a breathtaking environment. SUMMARY The Nordic Guide manages daily operations for the Nordic Ski program, including trail pass and retail sales, equipment rentals, skill and technique demonstration, trail monitoring, and facility upkeep. A positive, friendly attitude is essential, ensuring each guest enjoys an exceptional experience. The ideal candidate is passionate about Nordic skiing and outdoor recreation, bringing both technical skill and a welcoming demeanor to interactions with guests of all ages. They should have a strong commitment to guest service excellence and demonstrate adaptability, professionalism, and effective communication in all aspects of the role. A background in teaching or coaching, familiarity with the local area, and a proactive approach to safety and teamwork will set this candidate apart, helping to create memorable, high-quality experiences for each guest. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide outstanding guest service, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.
• Adhere to safety protocols as per OSHA, company, and department standards.
• Offer information on the Nordic Ski trail system and other ranch activities.
• Handle rental and retail operations, including opening/closing procedures, customer information, and equipment fitting.
• Conduct cross-country skiing and snowshoe instruction in private or group settings, ensuring a fun and safe environment.
• Maintain communication with guests through telephone and email, responding promptly and professionally.
• Perform equipment, trail, and facility maintenance as needed.
• Exhibit punctuality and time management, consistently clocking in and out on schedule.
• Commit to personal growth by accepting and implementing feedback.
• Report any hazardous situations, incidents, or accidents immediately to leadership.
• Maintain cleanliness of the Outpost, participate in safety meetings, and assist in meeting guest experience and department goals.
• Flexibly adapt to changes in schedule or work environment, including responding to weather and events.
• Support the Guest Experience Managers, Director of Guest Experience, and other departments with coordination and administrative tasks as needed.
• Assist other departments and contribute to shared responsibilities as needed, including snow removal, guest transportation, and general outpost upkeep.
• Engage with the public, maintaining professionalism and fostering positive relationships.
• Ensure guest satisfaction with attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality service.
• Complete all required paperwork and timecard entries promptly.
• Comply with company policies, operating procedures, safety standards, and service expectations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• PSIA Level 1 certification is strongly encouraged (can be obtained during the season); Level 2 or 3 preferred (or international equivalent).
• First Aid and CPR certification required, with the option to complete during the season.
• Valid U.S. driver's license required.
• Excellent guest service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, and internet navigation.
• Knowledge and on-snow experience with snowshoeing, diagonal stride, and skate skiing.
• Background in cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, with experience in competing, working, or recreating in the field preferred.
• Experience working with guests of all ages in the guest service industry preferred.
• Knowledge of the local area preferred.
• Experience in teaching, coaching, or mentoring preferred.
• Must be available to work holidays, weekends, and adapt to working in a high alpine, inclement weather environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Must be able to work effectively in varying weather conditions, including cold and inclement weather, with temperatures often below 0°F.
• Ability to maintain composure and provide excellent guest service in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
• Must be able to work early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to frequent changes in tasks and schedule.
• Requires physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching.
• Must be able to frequently lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Must be capable of skiing on various terrains and navigating uneven or slippery surfaces.
• Ability to ascend and descend terrain on skis and on foot.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time or without notice. Hourly Employee & Seasonal Employee Benefits At Lone Mountain Ranch, in addition to a competitive hourly wage, we offer a range of benefits to make your experience more rewarding. Seasonal Bonus Program:

• All hourly employees are eligible for our seasonal bonus program.
• You will receive $1 per hour worked and $1.50 per overtime hour worked.
• Employees who terminate or resign before the season ends will not participate.
• If the season is shortened due to business levels, you will still receive the bonus.
• Employees in short-term contracted positions, like Lone Mountain Rangers, are also eligible.

Staff Cafeteria:

• Enjoy access to our staff cafeteria, offering 3 meals a day and a variety of grab-and-go items.

Ranch Gratuity:

• In addition to your hourly rate, you will receive a ranch gratuity unique to Lone Mountain Ranch.

Ranch-Wide Activities:

• During the summer, you have free access (space permitting) to activities like horseback riding, Lone Mountain Rangers, and Yellowstone National Park tours, as well as yoga.
• In winter, enjoy access to 50 miles of cross-country ski trails.

Arrival:

• Complimentary transportation is provided to and from the airport.

Uniforms:

• Free uniforms are provided for your role at the ranch.

Opportunity to Transition to Full-Time:

• After working a minimum of 1560 hours over a 12-month period, you can transition to full-time status.
• Full-time benefits include vacation and sick pay, medical insurance (with the Ranch covering 80% of premiums), and voluntary dental, vision, and life insurance (employees are responsible for 100% of the premiums for these benefits).