A full time job as a snowboard instructor?

Question

I'm a freshmen in high school and my love for snowboarding is unconditional. I'm really looking forward to working at a mountain as a snowboard instructor or anything that has to do with the sport. Do they get good pay? Or at least enough money to make a decent living? I'm planning on getting a job either during or right after i finish college.

Answer 1

yep lifestyle choice for sure. in fact it you dont normaly make much money in most on hill positions as you would after college. there are actual careers available that you can do ok with. but i have many co-workers that have been return instructors for many years and have realized that it is definatley not about the money. if you enjoy working with a team, are very personable , and enjoy watching people progress than do it. at least while you still have knees  :)

my theory is this

shcool will always be there and so will the mountains but your legs wont last forever so get that s__t outta your system while your young just be smart when your out there.

ie: keep some brain cells

Answer 2

Snowboard instructor is probably a good job while you are in college...and you can even do it on your break in the Southern Hemisphere....Australia and Chile have amazing skiing in  July and August.

As a career, private lessons might pay well, but if you are working for a resort you probably won't make much money. Travel opportunities are amazing though, but that is while you are young, you could teach instructors as you get older. Working for yourself would maximize your profits

You know what is big in Europe and Japan? Indoor snowboarding places...not snow inside but specialized equipment to teach people in the off season....expensive to start up I imagine, but you could make a ton of cash in the off season. Google "indoor snowboarding" lost of stuff will come up, it's quite amazing...I wish they has one here!

Good Luck!!

Answer 3

instructor sounds good, but really jobs like "night shift manager" or "night groomer" or "night auditor" are much better. they allow you to ski during the day without the tourists slowing you down. if you are really set on instructor try to go for "ski team coach" ----way more fun and maybe even a little more money. you won't make much even if you spend all the cash for PSIA certification, but it is a lifestyle, after all.