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Certified Ski Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Certified Ski Instructors will deliver quality ski instruction to groups and individuals, providing world class guest service in a safe and fun environment. Full and Part Time positions available.

Certified Ski Instructors will deliver quality ski instruction to groups and individuals, providing world class guest service in a safe and fun environment. Full and Part Time positions available.

Certified Ski Instructors will deliver quality ski instruction to groups and individuals, providing world class guest service in a safe and fun environment. Full and Part Time positions available.

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Certified Ski Instructor information

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$12

$18

$25

How much do certified ski instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified ski instructor in the United States is $18.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Certified Ski Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Ski Instructor, you need advanced skiing ability, a recognized instructor certification (such as PSIA or equivalent), and a strong understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with lesson planning tools, video analysis software, and avalanche safety equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors connect with students and foster a positive learning environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering effective instruction, ensuring student safety, and promoting a love for the sport.

How do Certified Ski Instructors typically collaborate with other staff on the mountain to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for guests?

Certified Ski Instructors regularly work alongside ski patrol, lift operators, and mountain operations teams to maintain guest safety and optimize lesson experiences. They participate in daily briefings to discuss weather conditions, trail openings, and any potential hazards. Instructors also communicate with guest services to coordinate lesson schedules and address special requests or concerns from students. This collaborative environment helps ensure that guests receive high-quality instruction and have a memorable, safe time on the slopes.

What are Certified Ski Instructors?

Certified Ski Instructors are professionals who have undergone formal training and assessment to teach skiing safely and effectively. They hold certifications from recognized organizations, such as the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) or similar bodies in other countries. These instructors are skilled in teaching skiers of various ages and abilities, focusing on proper technique, safety, and enjoyment of the sport. Certification ensures they meet industry standards for knowledge, teaching skills, and safety practices.

What is the difference between Certified Ski Instructor vs Certified Snowboard Instructor?

AspectCertified Ski InstructorCertified Snowboard Instructor
CertificationsTypically requires specific ski instructor certifications (e.g., PSIA/AASI)Requires snowboard instructor certifications (e.g., PSIA/AASI Snowboard Certification)
Work EnvironmentOperates mainly on ski slopes, teaching skiing techniquesWorks on snowboards, teaching snowboard skills on slopes
Industry UsageCommon in ski resorts and winter sports schoolsCommon in snowboard-focused resorts and training centers

Both Certified Ski Instructors and Certified Snowboard Instructors hold industry-recognized certifications, work in similar environments, and are employed by winter sports resorts. The main difference lies in the specific skills they teach—skiing versus snowboarding—making each role specialized for different winter sports enthusiasts.

More about Certified Ski Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Certified Ski Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Certified Ski Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Certified Ski Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Certified Ski Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Certified Ski Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, and 97% Full Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,795 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Certified Ski Instructor

$21/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Create Your Experience of a Lifetime!

Come work and play in the mountains!  Whether it’s your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means discovering (or re-discovering!) a passion for the outdoors while building lifelong connections with teammates and guests from around the world.

With 40+ resorts across 3 continents, you can join our team for a season or stay to build a career. From day one, you'll receive some of the highest compensation rates in the industry, free pass(es) along with free ski and snowboard lessons, 40% retail discounts, the chance to grow through Epic Service - our leading training and development experience, and wellness benefits to fuel your success.

Hiring for our seasonal positions occurs on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted until December 15th or until the positions are filled (whichever is first).

Employee 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
•    Referral Program

To Learn More, please review the Benefits Eligibility Summary

Job Summary:

Experience the best office in the world teaching skiing and snowboarding to guests of all ages. Certified Ski or Snowboard Instructors will deliver quality ski/snowboard instruction to groups and individuals, providing world class guest service in a safe and fun environment. Full and Part Time positions available.

Job Specifications:

  • Starting Wage: $21.00/hr - $64.34/hr
    •  Pay range reflects minimum base wages; instructors may have opportunities to earn more with additional teaching incentives
  •  Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027
  •  Shift Type: Full Time and Part Time hours available
  •  Minimum Age: At least 16 years of age
  •  Housing Availability: Yes

Job Responsibilities:

  • Teach group and private lessons
  • Work with guests of all ages and abilities.
  •  Deliver world class guest service to all guests
  •  Create a safe and fun learning environment
  •  Support all ski school needs inclusive of scanning, running surface lifts, facilitating lunch, fitting equipment
  •  Provide guest feedback that inspires and creates lifelong skiers and riders

Job Requirements:

  •  Minimum PSIA/AASI instructor Level 1 certification or ISIA equivalent and above
  •  Must be able to communicate fluently in English
  •  Must be willing to work weekends/holidays
  •  Placement as an instructor is contingent upon successfully completing training and meeting the minimum skill, guest service, and safety standards.

The expected pay range is $21.00/hr - $64.34/hr. This is the pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

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. 

We follow all federal, state, and local laws including restrictions on child/minor labor. Minors hired into this position will not be asked or permitted to engage in any activities restricted to adult workers.

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  514645
Reference Date: 05/07/2026 
Job Code Function: Ski/Snow School
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