1

Junior Ski Instructor Jobs in Castleton, VT (NOW HIRING)

Junior Ski Instructor information

Where do ski instructors get paid the most?

Ski instructors tend to earn the highest wages at popular and high-end ski resorts, especially those located in regions with a strong ski tourism industry and higher living costs. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the resort's prestige also influence pay rates, with some resorts offering additional benefits like free lift passes and accommodation. Generally, ski instructors working in renowned ski destinations or luxury resorts receive higher compensation.

How much money do ski instructors make?

Ski instructors typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with seasonal salaries ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on experience, location, and certification level. Many instructors supplement income through tips and teaching private lessons, and certifications like Level 1 or 2 can influence earning potential.

What are Junior Ski Instructors?

Junior Ski Instructors are entry-level professionals who assist in teaching skiing to beginners, often children or first-time skiers. They work under the supervision of more experienced instructors, helping with basic techniques, safety instructions, and group management. Junior Ski Instructors play a key role in ensuring a safe, fun, and educational environment for new skiers while gaining experience to advance their own ski teaching careers.

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

To thrive as a Junior Ski Instructor, you need a solid understanding of skiing techniques, basic teaching skills, and often a relevant instructor certification such as those from PSIA or equivalent. Familiarity with ski safety equipment, communication radios, and basic first aid protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate and encourage learners are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective instruction, safety on the slopes, and a positive learning experience for students of all ages.

What is the difference between Junior Ski Instructor vs Ski Instructor?

AspectJunior Ski InstructorSki Instructor
CertificationsBasic ski instructor certifications, youth coaching qualificationsAdvanced ski instructor certifications, professional coaching licenses
Work EnvironmentPrimarily teaching children and beginners on beginner slopesTeaching a wider range of skill levels, including adults and advanced skiers
Employer & Industry UsageResorts, ski schools focusing on youth programsSki schools, resorts, and private coaching for all ages

The main difference between a Junior Ski Instructor and a Ski Instructor lies in the target age group and certification level. Junior Ski Instructors typically work with children and beginners, holding basic certifications, while Ski Instructors often have advanced credentials and teach a broader range of skiers, including adults and advanced students. Both roles are essential in ski education but differ in experience, scope, and target clientele.

What are some typical challenges that Junior Ski Instructors face during their first season on the job?

Junior Ski Instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, managing groups of students with varying skill levels, and ensuring safety while maintaining an engaging lesson environment. Balancing effective teaching techniques with patience is key, especially when working with children or beginners who may be nervous or easily distracted. Additionally, developing strong communication and collaboration skills is important, as Junior Instructors frequently work alongside more experienced instructors and must coordinate lesson plans and group management.

Can you make good money as a ski instructor?

Junior ski instructors can earn a variable income depending on location, experience, and certification level. Typically, they earn an hourly wage or daily rate, with additional income possible through tips and private lessons. Earnings often increase with experience and advanced certifications such as Level 2 or Level 3 instructor certifications.

How old do you have to be to train as a ski instructor?

To train as a junior ski instructor, candidates typically need to be at least 15 or 16 years old, depending on the country and certification program. Many programs require participants to have basic skiing skills and obtain relevant certifications such as the Level 1 ski instructor qualification before working with clients.
What cities near Castleton, VT are hiring for Junior Ski Instructor jobs? Cities near Castleton, VT with the most Junior Ski Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Ski Instructor job openings in Castleton, VT as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Mountain Sports Ministar Supervisor

KILLINGTON PICO SKI RESORT

Killington, VT

$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Compensation: Seasonal salary equivalent to $50,000–$55,000 annually, prorated for season length, adjusted based on experience
  • Benefits: Seasonal position eligible for a season pass for employee/dependents and privileges at several other resorts. Several discount programs (i.e. food & beverage, retail/rental, tickets, etc.) also available.

Job Summary:

Ministars is Killington’s premier ski and ride program for young children (ages 4–6), designed to create learning in a fun and safe environment for all ability levels. This full-day experience combines small-group, play-based instruction with plenty of time on-snow, allowing kids to progress at their own pace in a supportive environment. With a low student-to-instructor ratio, personalized attention, and a mix of on-snow exploration and indoor activities, Ministars helps young guests develop fundamental skills, independence, and a love for skiing and snowboarding—all while having a great day on the slopes.

The Mountain Sports Ministar Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and quality of all Ministar lesson operations at Killington Resort. This includes supervising Ministar instructors, managing daily lineups and instructor assignments, optimizing sales and guest conversion, and ensuring premium guest experiences. Working in collaboration with the Mountain Sports School leadership team, the Ministar Supervisor plays a critical role in aligning Ministar lesson products with resort goals, managing instructor availability, and maintaining the highest standard of personalized instruction. 

Summary of Key Responsibilities: 

Responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:  

  • Oversee daily Ministar operations including staff assignments, product delivery, and guest service. 
  • Supervise and support Ministar instructors, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality, customized instruction. 
  • Coordinate daily lineups and Ministar lesson allocations in real-time to match instructor skillsets with guest needs. 
  • Work closely with the Food and Beverage Department to ensure quality lunch experience. 
  • Assist in tracking and analyzing Ministar lesson inventory and recommending adjustments to maximize revenue. 
  • Respond to guest inquiries, feedback, and issues in a timely and professional manner. 
  • Conduct on-hill quality control by observing lessons and coaching instructors on teaching effectiveness. 
  • Develop and deliver on-snow and indoor training specific to Ministar lesson service standards and best practices. 
  • Contribute to staffing plans, including onboarding, scheduling, and performance feedback for Ministar lesson instructors as well as junior instructors. 
  • Collaborate with supervisors and managers across departments to align on staffing, terrain use, and guest service expectations. 
  • Maintain accurate records of guest interactions, lesson outcomes, and instructor performance. 
  • Support a high-end guest experience and act as a brand ambassador for Killington Resort. 
  • Perform additional duties as assigned. 

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in appropriate field
  • 2 to 4 years of relevant experience in Mountain Sports instruction and/or coaching
  • OR a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and Snow Sports skills are acquired.
  • Level II PSIA/AASI (or eqiuvalent) or higher preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Advanced snow skiing/snowboarding and mountain bike ability and technical knowledge in the field
  • Ability to teach others how to teach, and ability to evaluate student levels and potentials
  • Physical ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Good planning, administrative, and supervisory skills, supervisory/management training or experience required
  • Ability to deal effectively with customers and parents, as well as other company personnel

It is the policy of Killington/Pico Ski Resort Partners, LLC to provide equal opportunity and employment to all staff and applicants.  No person shall be discriminated against in any condition of employment because of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, place of birth, age, physical or mental condition, or any qualified individual with a disability or veteran status.

Work where you play - Apply now