Careers > Ski Patrol

Ski Patrol

Industry Group: Recreation and Entertainment

Overview: 

Ski patrols assist in the overall management of slopes, trails and base areas at ski operations, either alpine or cross-country. They ski or snowboard through the area, ensuring that users are behaving responsibly, and providing first aid, rescue and transport to those who need help. Ski patrols in Canada earn a median hourly wage of $13 or a median annual salary of $34,679. Benefits include free or reduced-rate access to ski areas, training in first aid and emergency response, and the opportunity to improve skiing or snowboarding skills.

Duties: 

• Educate guests and staff in accident prevention, rules and regulations, and on proper use of equipment
• Respond to accidents and participate in investigations
• Maintain first aid hut, equipment and rescue gear
• Monitor trails and slopes
• Enforce policies, regulations and legislation

Experience: 

Ski patrols require a good general knowledge of ski area operations and terrain hazards. They must be competent skiers or boarders, and must be able to meet the physical requirements of the position. An ability to remain calm in emergencies is necessary, as are strong communication, decision-making, problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Emergency response and first aid experience are helpful, as is recreational leadership experience.

Education: 

A secondary school diploma is preferred. Specialized training (e.g. Level 1 Avalanche, orienteering) is sometimes required.

Career Path: 

Instructor, Ski Patrol Supervisor, Ski Guide, Manager of Avalanche Control.

References:

• HRDC NOC 5254: Program Leaders and Instructors in Recreation and Sport