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Professional Ski Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alta

PSIA Certified Ski Instructor

Alta, UT · On-site

Required training is compensated at an hourly rate and ongoing professional development and ... Join our community of instructors and ski school support staff numbering 150 dedicated ...

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Professional Ski Instructor information

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$13

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How much do professional ski instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional ski instructor in the United States is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Professional Ski Instructor, you need advanced skiing ability, strong instructional skills, and certification from recognized bodies such as PSIA or CSIA. Familiarity with ski safety protocols, mountain operations, and the use of teaching aids and radio communication systems is important. Exceptional interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate and adapt to students of all ages distinguish top instructors. These skills ensure effective, safe, and enjoyable learning experiences for clients and support a positive reputation for the ski school.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Professional ski instructors can earn up to $2,000 per day in high-end resorts or during peak seasons, especially with advanced certifications and extensive experience. Such earnings often depend on location, skill level, and the number of lessons or private clients they serve daily.

What does a Professional Ski Instructor do?

A Professional Ski Instructor teaches individuals or groups how to ski, helping them develop their skills, confidence, and safety on the slopes. Their responsibilities include assessing students’ abilities, demonstrating proper techniques, providing constructive feedback, and ensuring lessons are engaging and tailored to each learner’s needs. Instructors also emphasize mountain safety, etiquette, and may assist with equipment selection or fitting. They often work at ski resorts and may be certified through recognized organizations.

Where do ski instructors make the most money?

Ski instructors tend to earn higher wages at popular and high-end ski resorts, especially those with extensive terrain and luxury amenities. Locations with a long ski season, high tourist volume, and a reputation for quality instruction often offer better pay, along with tips from satisfied clients. Experience, certifications, and language skills can also influence earning potential in these areas.

How do Professional Ski Instructors typically collaborate with other staff at a ski resort?

Professional Ski Instructors often work closely with other instructors, ski patrol, and guest services to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for guests. They coordinate lesson schedules, communicate about slope conditions, and may assist with group events or special programs. Effective teamwork and communication are essential, as instructors frequently share information about students' progress and adapt lesson plans based on real-time feedback from colleagues. This collaborative environment helps maintain high safety standards and enhances guests’ learning outcomes.

How much do professional ski instructors make?

Professional ski instructors typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and season length. Many instructors supplement income through tips and certifications such as PSIA or CSIA can enhance earning potential.

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

AspectProfessional Ski InstructorCertified Ski Instructor
CredentialsTypically holds recognized certifications, extensive training, and experienceHas official certification or licensing, often required for employment
Work EnvironmentWorks at ski resorts, teaching individuals or groupsSimilar, often employed by ski schools or resorts
Industry UsageUsed broadly to denote experienced, qualified instructorsFocuses on formal certification status
Search/Comparison IntentCommonly compared to certified roles to understand qualificationsOften searched to verify instructor credentials

The main difference between a Professional Ski Instructor and a Certified Ski Instructor lies in certification status and experience. While both work in ski resorts and require relevant training, a Professional Ski Instructor emphasizes practical experience and advanced skills, whereas a Certified Ski Instructor highlights formal certification. Both roles are essential for providing quality ski instruction, but certification can influence employment opportunities and client trust.

How to become a professional ski instructor?

To become a professional ski instructor, you typically need to complete a certification program such as the Level 1 or Level 2 ski instructor certification from a recognized organization like the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) or the International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA). Candidates must demonstrate skiing proficiency, pass written and on-snow exams, and often gain experience through training courses and practice sessions. Additional skills include good communication, customer service, and knowledge of safety procedures in a ski environment.
What cities are hiring for Professional Ski Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Professional Ski Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ski Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Ski Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Ski Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Ski Instructor jobs include:
Professional Ski Instructor jobs near you
PSIA Certified Ski Instructor

PSIA Certified Ski Instructor

Alta Ski Area

Alta, UT

Other

Posted 24 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