Instructor Employment

Become An Instructor

"I've never really thought of it before. What does it take to be an instructor?"

Contrary to what you may have thought, you don't have to be an ex-Olympian to be an effective teacher. In fact, an enthusiastic personality and a passion for skiing and riding is our most critical prerequisite! Sure, skiing and riding skill is required, but at minimum, intermediate ability. The majority of our students are first-timers, and we will teach you how to teach them. If asked, most of our "master teachers" would never have considered themselves worthy at first. The key is in conveying your love of the sport in a safe, informative and nurturing manner.

The best teachers in the world are great learners first...that is where we come in. Our staff trainers are world class, yet they started right where you are now. They will guide you through the technical teaching skills to make you a successful teacher, and along the way you will, as a partner in learning, grow your own personal skills beyond recognition! Many of our "rookies" finish the season having achieved their Level 1 PSIA or AASI certification! The breakthrough you are seeking in your abilities may just lie in the teaching of others!  Please contact the Winter Sports School to set up an appointment.

Job Description

A Mountain High Ski and Snowboard Instructor:

• Serves as a professional instructor and representative of Mountain High Resort.
• Works as a member of an interdependent team dedicated to creating the best possible environment for taking and teaching a ski or snowboard lesson.
• Works not only with students, but with all guests, internal or external, at all times exemplifying the goals of the resort's Guest Service model, on and off the hill.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Recognizes that outstanding service is our product and exceeding guest expectations our goal.
• Maintains a safe and responsible work environment while teaching and adheres to those principles of conduct while riding or skiing.
• Instructs group and private lessons of varying ability levels, as assigned.
• Instructs students of ANY age, sex and learning ability, as assigned.
• Understands and follows the Mountain High Teaching System and ATS with individuality and personal insight.
• Makes a conscious and continued effort to improve and expand personal riding and skiing skills, teaching skills and professional knowledge.
• Is the embodiment of a Guest service and public relations representative for Mountain High Resort, on and off the hill.
• Is visible, approachable and available to Guest's.
• Reads, understands and complies with the Mountain High Resort Employee Handbook and Ski and Snowboard School Policies and Procedures Manual.
• Is responsible for all information contained in manuals, amendments, addendums, posts on bulletin boards, email postings and morning meetings.
• Supplies modern, indemnifiable personal ski and board equipment and maintains it in a safe, functional and attractive condition.
• Recognizes the importance of all external and internal guests in the workplace, interfacing in a cooperative and supportive fashion with all departments.
• Performs other jobs and responsibilities as requested.
• Is ever-alert to opportunities to better serve the Guest, the department and the Resort.

Criteria for Evaluation

The Ski and Snowboard Instructor is evaluated on performance of duties, teaching ability, communication skills, level of guest service, attitude, attendance and punctuality, attire and appearance, initiative, guest feedback, student return rate, hours worked, skiing/riding ability and measurable improvement, relations with coworkers, other departments and Guests, technical knowledge, participation in educational clinics and events, PSIA/AASI certification, PROFESSIONALISM and mature judgment.

Reports to

Winter Sports School Director, designated manager or supervisor.

Special Qualities

The Instructor must exude a passion for snowsports. An appropriately extroverted, charismatic sharer with a high level of enthusiasm and energy. Must be flexible, adaptable and willing to grow. Must enjoy being part of a diverse team of motivated, highly skilled and fun-loving individuals. Must be willing and able to work on holidays and during busy periods if needed.

Requirements

Full Time Commitment

Full time, seasonal employment for Winter Sports School staff will effectively run from resort opening (as early as Nov 1st) through closing (as late as May 15th) weather dependent. FT instructor positions involve minimally a 70-100 day commitment, including a 4-6 day per week work schedule, with additional days during vacation periods.

Part Time Commitment

Part time, seasonal employment for Winter Sports School staff will run the course of the season. Minimum commitment of 30-40 days per season, 6-8 days per month with an emphasis on busy weekends and vacation periods.

Pay and Benefits

A dynamic, pay-for-performance compensation system is in effect for members of the Winter Sports School. Although instructors are paid by the class and only while they are teaching, accurate forecasting and the popularity of our programs assure work for all. Base pay is very competitive and is enhanced by incentives based on hours worked, number of students, returns and commissions on both requested and assigned private lessons. Pay increases are made by the pay period as goals are reached. Season end pay thresholds establish starting pay for the following season. Certification is encouraged and conducted in house with our examiner staff. Instructor pay is increased immediately with new certification and exam fees may be reimbursed after the following season. All instructors receive a free seasons pass, discounts for dependents and earn lift tickets. Instructors are eligible for F&B discounts and Pro deals. Uniform and locker room provided. A season end bonus is available for eligible instructors.

Training

Mountain High's training staff is among the best in the Western Division of PSIA/AASI. Over 4,000 training hours were available to instructors in 2006/07. You will not recognize your skiing/riding, technical or teaching skills by the end of 2007/08.

Types of Positions Available

A variety of positions are available. Ski and Snowboard Instructors for Adults and Children (must be 17), Apprentice Instructor (ski and snowboard not snowboard only, must be 16). Other positions include Academy Indoor Monitor, Registration Desk and Reservation Agent. Instructor Positions can be Part time (weekend, holiday, nights or midweek) or Full time (any combination of 4-6 days per week). Positions are also available within the Adaptive department.

CONTACT: Winter Sports School