Director, Mountain Planning

Job Description

Job Description

Our mission is to create the Experience of a Lifetime for our employees, so they can, in turn, create the Experience of a Lifetime for our guests. We own and operate the most renowned destination resorts in the world as well as regional and local ski areas outside major cities, and connect them all through one unrivaled network. We are looking for ambitious leaders, innovators and creators to join our talented team. If you’re ready to pursue your fullest potential, we want to get to know you!

Candidates for year-round positions are reviewed on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted up to 90 days after the posting date, or until the position is filled (whichever is first).

Job Summary:

The Director of Mountain Planning is responsible for guiding the strategic vision, land use, and development plans for assigned ski resorts. This position will oversee all aspects of resort planning, including terrain expansion, infrastructure improvements, environmental compliance, permitting, and community engagement. The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of resort master planning, land use regulations, and sustainable mountain development practices.

Job Specifications:

• Outlet: Corporate

• The budgeted range starts at $85,863.60 - $110,362.73 + annual bonus + equity. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience

• Shift & Schedule Availability: Full Time, Year Round

• Other Specifics: Hybrid / Remote

Job Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Development:

• Lead the creation and execution of the resort’s long-range master development plan.
• Identify and evaluate opportunities for terrain expansion, facility upgrades, and new guest amenities.
• Coordinate with resort leadership to align planning efforts with overall business goals.

Regulatory & Environmental Compliance:

• Navigate federal, state, and local permitting processes, including NEPA, Forest Service coordination, and local zoning.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and land use regulations.
• Oversee environmental impact assessments and mitigation planning

Project Management:

• Develop and manage planning timelines, budgets, and milestones for capital projects.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors.
• Provide project oversight from initial concept through construction and implementation.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build strong relationships with public agencies, community leaders, and landowners.
• Represent the resort at public meetings and with governmental bodies.
• Facilitate community outreach and ensure transparency in planning initiatives.

Data & Analysis:

• Conduct feasibility studies, market analyses, and guest usage data interpretation.
• Maintain GIS and mapping systems relevant to resort planning.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive planning experience, preferably in ski resort or mountain recreation industries.
• Proven experience with land use planning, permitting processes, and environmental regulations.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Proficient with GIS, CAD, and planning software tools.
• Passion for outdoor recreation and mountain environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with U.S. Forest Service Special Use Permits and NEPA procedures.
• Experience with ski area operations and planning in alpine environments.
• Knowledge of sustainable development practices.

The expected Total Compensation for this role is $85,863.60 - $110,362.73 + annual bonus + equity. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

Job Benefits

• Ski/Mountain Perks! Free passes for employees, employee discounted lift tickets for friends and family AND free ski lessons
• MORE employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Excellent training and professional development

Full Time roles are eligible for the above, plus:

• Health Insurance; Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, and Vision Insurance plans (for eligible seasonal employees after working 500 hours)
• Free ski passes for dependents
• Critical Illness and Accident plans

Vail Resorts offers a ‘Hybrid’ work environment where employees living within 50 miles of the Broomfield office work on-site Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and have flexibility to work off-site on Mondays and Fridays. Employees living outside of a commutable distance can work remotely from British Columbia, Washington D.C., and the 16 U.S. states* in which we currently operate. This includes: California, Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Washington State, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Please note that the ability to work in person or off-site, and the particulars related to such work, are subject to change at any time; and, accordingly, the Company reserves the right to change its policies and/or require in-person/in-office work or off-site work at any time in its sole discretion.

In completing this application, and when submitting related documentation, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, and/or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Vail Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Requisition ID 508740
Reference Date: 05/28/2025
Job Code Function: Mountain Planning