[Seasonal] Equipment Operator

Description

[Seasonal] Equipment Operator

National Western | Denver, CO

About National Western

We are National Western—an organization rooted in more than 120 years of history and driven by a mission to strengthen American agriculture through education, youth development, and community connection. We are stewards of the Western way of life, grounded in the values of courage, pride, integrity, grit, and loyalty. Each January, we bring this mission to life through the legendary National Western Stock Show—one of the world’s premier Western lifestyle, rodeo, and livestock entertainment events—welcoming hundreds of thousands of guests from across the globe. Beyond the Stock Show, we operate The Legacy, a world-class, year-round destination for events, experiences, and cultural connections in the heart of Denver. We are more than an event—we are a brand that lives at the intersection of heritage, community, and culture—shaping how Western lifestyle shows up in the modern world.

Reports to: Sr. Manager of Event Operations

Position Overview

Equipment Operators are responsible for safely operating a variety of heavy equipment and vehicles to support facility operations, event setup and teardown, grounds maintenance, snow removal, and special events. This role performs general maintenance and repair duties, assists with building and grounds upkeep, and supports operational needs across the facility. Equipment Operators work both independently and collaboratively to ensure a safe, clean, and well-maintained environment while meeting event timelines and operational deadlines. During major events, including the National Western Stock Show, this position may provide leadership and direction to maintenance crews to ensure facilities and grounds are prepared for exhibitors, guests, and event operations.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Operate various equipment (forklift, skid steer, tractor, loader, dump truck, etc.) in a manner that is compliant with OSHA regulations and WSSA/NWSS safety policies. 
• Utilize equipment for snow removal, movement of dumpsters, and completing tasks that require the help of equipment.
• Observe and listen to machinery operation to detect equipment malfunctions.
• General maintenance on complex shows which will require various degrees of lifting, bending, standing, and walking. 
• Assist in the set up and tear down of shows and events (may not always include operation of heavy equipment). 
• General maintenance duties such as stall set up and tear down and general maintenance projects (cleaning, painting, sweeping, mopping, etc.) for the facility, as needed. 
• Under the direction of Operations Managers, assist with communication and monitoring of assigned maintenance workers. 
• Duties may shift to that of a supervisor during the National Western Stock Show each January, leading crews to keep the buildings and grounds prepared for the next event or move-in. 
• Conducts detailed inspections. Removes, repairs, and replaces parts as necessary. 
• Operates a variety of hand, power, and shop tools. 
• Practices safe work methods and adheres to safety regulations. 
• Works independently and within a team environment, often adhering to tight deadlines.  

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Requirements

Skills and Qualifications

• To qualify for this position, candidates must have experience operating heavy equipment, including but not limited to forklifts, skid steers, tractors, front-end loaders, and/or dump trucks. 
• A valid driver’s license, a clean and current MVR, and a pre-employment drug test are all required.  
• A valid CDL license is preferred. 
• Able to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 pounds. 
• Comfortable with working indoors and outside in all weather conditions, and around animals.  
• Successful crew members can understand verbal and written directions, work independently and as part of a team, and are safety-minded. 
• Candidates must be able to communicate fluently in English.  

Physical Demands

National Western Complex is a multi-purpose indoor and outdoor commercial and agricultural complex where dusty conditions and animals may exist. While performing the duties of this job, work is performed both indoors and outside in all weather conditions, including extreme cold, snow, wind, and rain on varied surfaces. In this role, individuals will experience prolonged periods of walking and being on their feet. The incumbent must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and access/navigate the National Western Complex in its entirety, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Scheduling Requirements

As our schedule is based on the events booked in our Complex, scheduling flexibility is a must. Events may require early morning hours, late evening/overnight hours, holiday hours, and will require weekend hours. Like almost all NWSS team members, this position will need to be on-site every day during Stock Show (January 9-24, 2027), typically for up to 12 hours at a time.  

Compensation and Benefits

• This is a seasonal, hourly position with pay starting at $21.50 per hour depending on experience.
• Paid sick time is offered at a rate of 1 hour for every 30 hours worked.

WSSA/NWSS is a drug & alcohol-free employer with a zero-tolerance drug policy, including marijuana.

WSSA/NWSS is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.

All offers are contingent on the successful completion of a criminal background check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Seasonal Position: This is a temporary seasonal position with an anticipated end date of 02/01/2027. Employment may end earlier or be extended based on operational needs.

Job Posting Close Date

11/20/2026; open until filled (pre-stock show support is needed)