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Level 1 Ski Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alta Ski Area

PSIA Certified Ski Instructor

Alta, UT

PSIA Level 1, 2 or 3 Certification is required to be a Ski School Instructor * Commitment from December 1st to mid-April--holidays are required * Full-time positions available: 90-135 teaching days ...

Alta

PSIA Certified Ski Instructor

Alta, UT · On-site

PSIA Level 1, 2 or 3 Certification is required to be a Ski School Instructor * Commitment from December 1st to mid-April-holidays are required * Full-time positions available: 90-135 teaching days ...

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Level 1 Ski Instructor information

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How much do level 1 ski instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for level 1 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 do you need to be a Level 1 ski instructor?

To become a Level 1 ski instructor, candidates typically need to complete a certification course from a recognized ski instructor organization, demonstrate basic skiing skills, and pass a written and practical exam. First aid certification and good communication skills are also often required, along with being comfortable working in a ski resort environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Level 1 Ski Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Level 1 Ski Instructor, you need a solid understanding of basic skiing techniques, safety procedures, and typically a Level 1 certification from a recognized body like PSIA or CSIA. Familiarity with ski equipment, resort safety protocols, and lesson planning tools is also important. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to motivate beginners help create a positive learning environment. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring student safety, effective teaching, and enjoyable experiences for new skiers.

What are Level 1 Ski Instructors?

Level 1 Ski Instructors are entry-level professionals who are certified to teach beginner and novice skiers the fundamentals of skiing. They typically work with individuals or small groups, focusing on basic skills such as balance, turning, and stopping on gentle slopes. Level 1 certification is usually the first step in a ski instructor's career and requires successful completion of a training course and assessment. These instructors play a crucial role in helping new skiers gain confidence and enjoy the sport safely.

What are some common challenges faced by Level 1 Ski Instructors during their first season, and how can they be addressed?

Level 1 Ski Instructors often face challenges such as managing diverse beginner groups, communicating effectively with students of different ages, and adapting teaching techniques to varying weather and snow conditions. Building strong foundational knowledge, observing experienced instructors, and seeking regular feedback can help address these challenges. Additionally, being patient, maintaining a positive attitude, and continuously refining your skills through on-the-job experience are key to success in your first season.

How much do level 1 ski instructors make?

Level 1 ski instructors typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, with some seasonal positions offering a fixed daily rate. Compensation can vary based on location, certification, and experience, and many instructors receive additional benefits such as free or discounted lift tickets. Entry-level positions often require certification from a recognized ski instructor program and may include tips from students.

What is the difference between Level 1 Ski Instructor vs Level 2 Ski Instructor?

AspectLevel 1 Ski InstructorLevel 2 Ski Instructor
CertificationsBasic instructor certification, such as CSIA Level 1 or equivalentAdvanced certification, such as CSIA Level 2 or equivalent
Work EnvironmentBeginner to intermediate slopes, introductory lessonsIntermediate to advanced slopes, more complex lesson plans
Employer UsageEntry-level instructor roles at ski schoolsMore experienced instructors, leading larger groups or specialized lessons

The main difference between a Level 1 Ski Instructor and a Level 2 Ski Instructor lies in certification level, experience, and the complexity of lessons they can deliver. Level 2 instructors have advanced training and can handle more challenging terrain and students, whereas Level 1 instructors focus on beginner and basic skill instruction.

How much money do ski instructors get paid?

Ski instructors at the entry level, such as Level 1 Ski Instructors, typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with seasonal salaries ranging from $2,000 to $4,000. Pay can vary based on location, experience, certifications, and the ski resort's policies, and many instructors also receive tips from students.

How to become a level 1 ski instructor?

To become a Level 1 ski instructor, candidates typically need to complete a certification course offered by a recognized ski instructor organization, which includes training in skiing techniques, teaching methods, and safety procedures. Passing a practical skills assessment and obtaining first aid certification are also usually required before starting work as a Level 1 instructor.
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What states have the most Level 1 Ski Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Level 1 Ski Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Level 1 Ski Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Level 1 Ski Instructor jobs are:
Level 1 Ski Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Level 1 Ski Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, and 96% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,795 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
PSIA Certified Ski Instructor

PSIA Certified Ski Instructor

Alta Ski Area

Alta, UT

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Ski Powder. Change Lives.

Join the Alf Engen Ski School—one of the premier ski schools in North America.

Alta’s authentic feel and the pairing of many a skier’s dream destination with an expert local’s ski area create a rewarding and inspiring place to teach and play.

We deliver high-quality lesson experiences, provide excellent value and cultivate long-term relationships with our guests and staff. Alta’s pure mountain experience and amazing snow quality inspire a friendly and welcoming environment on a hardcore skier’s mountain.

What is it like to teach skiing at Alta?
  • We strive to make it fun! The Alf Engen Ski School teaching philosophy is FUN. CONTROL. FREEDOM… Our approach is light-hearted with a focus on developing skills to improve control and the freedom to explore a bit more of the mountain, no matter the skier’s skill level.
  • Take advantage of world-class training and certification preparation with a three-term PSIA Alpine Team Member and PSIA Intermountain Examiner Staff. Required training is compensated at an hourly rate and ongoing professional development and certification training are complimentary.
  • PSIA Certification and Accreditation is supported with fee reimbursement.
  • Teach the breadth of private lessons, class lessons and multi-week programs to adults, children and families.
  • Opportunity to develop the skills to teach all levels, including advanced–expert skiers. Alta Ski Area attracts locals and vacationers who are dedicated skiers. 70% of Ata’s adult and family private lessons are with Level 7–9 skiers in powder, moguls and steeper off-trail terrain. Instructor candidate capacity to evolve into teaching off-trail skiing will be heavily weighted in hiring decisions for the 2026–27 ski season.
  • Join our community of instructors and ski school support staff numbering 150 dedicated professionals. Ski school employee turnover is under 10% per year. We get to know you and you get to know us.
  • Enjoy an authentic skiers-only mountain uncluttered by second-party advertising and other distractions from the joy of alpine skiing.
  • Be comfortable in a spacious ski school locker room with direct access to your peers, supervisors and the ski school director.
  • Plan on one of the most dependable ski seasons in North America. Alta is often awarded “best snow” in ski magazine resort rankings.
  • Feel confident in Alta’s long-term consistency in ski area ownership, management and mission in skiing since 1938. Alta is a predictable and stable place to work and focus on the quality of your ski lessons.
Instructor Candidates
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States
  • Alta Ski Area does not hire employees through H2B Visa or J1 Visa
  • Must have prior professional ski teaching experience
    • No ski teaching experience? Please apply for the Ski Instructor Apprentice position when the application window opens late summer.
  • PSIA Level 1, 2 or 3 Certification is required to be a Ski School Instructor
  • Commitment from December 1st to mid-April—holidays are required
  • Full-time positions available: 90–135 teaching days
    • Part-Time Plus positions may be available: 45–80 teaching days
    • Part-time positions less than 45 days are not available
  • Background screening required
  • Alta Ski Area has limited employee housing available for instructors new to Alta.

A full list of benefits for all Alta employees is listed on the Benefits & FAQ's page.

Apply