What experience do I need to participate?
All levels of Skiers and Snowboarders are welcome to take part (with a minimum of a few days experience). As a first season instructor you will initially teach beginners which requires you to be a good teacher rather than an expert skier or snowboarder. As you gain experience and confidence through the season you will work with higher level students. While training with us you will learn the skills and progressions required to teach with ease! And remember, the best instructors are often those who are outgoing with good people skills, rather than those who are hot skiers or riders.
|
Which resort will I work at?
Based on your chosen program (Intensive or Ultimate Season) and discipline (skiing or snowboarding) we will assist you in obtaining an Offer or Employment for the most suitable resort. If you have a desire to work at a particular resort we will try to take this into consideration. You can be assured that all the resorts in the Lake Tahoe region and our partner resorts in Canada are fantastic, so no matter where you go you will have an awesome time!
|
Do I need to pass the Level One Exam before starting work?
No. It is not a requirement that you pass the level one certification prior to starting work. As you have been through a structured training program your resort will still employ you. When allocating work employers will give you tasks or assignments that best match your skills, experience and qualifications - so you won’t be asked to teach a high level powder lesson if you’re not ready to do so!
|
How old do I need to be to participate in the program?
The minimum age to participate in the program is 18 years of age at the time the training program finishes. There is no upper age limit. If you are 17 years old at the time of booking a legal guardian is required to approve to your participation in the program including signing the booking terms and conditions.
|
What does work as a first year ski or snowboard instructor involve?
As a first year ski or snowboard instructor you will teach beginner to intermediate level children and adults. As you gain experience and confidence through the season you will work with higher level students. Those training towards further certifications, such at the level two, will also be given the opportunity to refine their progressions with the appropriate students. You may also be required to assist with the administration and running of the resorts Snow Sports School. And most importantly work as an instructor will involve lots of fun!
|
What if I already have or are in the process of completing a Snow Sports qualification?
If you have or are in the process of completing a Snow Sports qualification you may be exempt from some of the program components. Please contact us as this will be assessed on an individual basis.
|
How long will the season last and what is my commitment to my resort?
The winter season generally commences at Thanksgiving weekend which is around the 20th of November. Depending on snow and client demand resorts will close between late April and the beginning of May. If you are on a J-1 Student Visa you will only be able to work for the duration of your visa. If you are working on a resort sponsored H-2B visa or a Canadian Working Holiday Visa your resort will likely require you work until the finish of the season, but they may release you prior to this time based on demand. Some resorts will have bonuses which are paid at the completion of the season. If you cannot work for the duration of the season you should discuss your availability with us and also your resort during the interview stage.
|
How many hours per week will I be expected to work?
During the season there are some very busy periods including Christmas-New Year, Martin Luther King Weekend (January) Presidents Holiday Week in February and Spring Break in March and Easter. During these times resorts are very busy and you may be required to work 6 or 7 days per week. Work flow during other times will vary based on factors such as snow conditions and client demand. During slower periods you may not get work when you want it or you may get the choice of whether to accept or decline work. On average over the season you should be working at least 3 to 5 days per week. You should however discuss work hours with your resort during the interview stage.
|
What can I expect to earn per hour and over the entire season?
The rate of pay as a level one certified instructor will be between US$10-12 per hour. You may also receive bonuses and incentives based on numbers in your class and private requests. As an instructor you will also earn money from tips which can vary dramatically from a minimum of US$500-1500+ depending on your hard work, luck and clientele for the season. On average expect to earn between US$5000-8000 over the entire season. This of course is a guide and may be more or less based on client demand, snow conditions and your motivations in terms of accepting or declining work where you have a choice. Your income should cover day to day living expenses such as accommodation, food, entertainment and can then be put towards other discretionary items such as new gear, trips away or repaying your parents!
|
What is the cost of living like in the Whistler region?
The cost of living in Whistler can be a bit pricey. As a guide expect to pay between US$500-750 per month for accommodation. This of course may be more or less based on factors such as where you live and how many people you live with. We strongly recommend our Ultimate Instructor Internship for Whistler as employee housing will be organized for you as part of this program. You will still have to pay rent, but this is substantially cheaper than alternatives available in the Whistler area.
|
What is the cost of living like in the Lake Tahoe region?
The cost of living in the Lake Tahoe region is relatively cheap. As a guide expect to pay between US$250-350 per month for accommodation. This of course may be more or less based on factors such as where you live and how many people you live with. Your income will cover day to day living expenses such as accommodation, food, entertainment and can then be put towards other discretionary items such as new gear, trips away or repaying your parents!
|
How much money will I need to get underway?
You will commence work just before Christmas and generally receive your first pay cheque two weeks later. You will need some upfront money to get yourself underway and to cover living costs such as meals and evening activities during this time. In terms of accommodation you may be required to pay a security deposit or bond along with the first month’s rent so you will need to budget for this also.
|
How do I find accommodation once I am working for my resort?
We will provide you with the names of other trainees taking part in the program so you can organise accommodation together. We will also give you with a list of rental agencies and accommodation options close to the resort where you will be working so you can start researching possible options prior to arriving in the United States or Canada. Some resorts offer employee accommodation.
|
How do I obtain a social security/SIN number (tax number) and open a bank account?
You will need to apply for a social security or SIN number when you arrive to the United States or Canada. The Resort Human Resources department will be able to assist you with this. To open a bank account you will need to make an appointment with a bank of your choice (in the town where you are living) and complete the relevant opening forms and procedures (take your passport and one other form of ID). This is a straightforward process and you can then have your wages direct deposited into your bank account.
|
Am I required to bring my own gear?
You will need your own equipment to take part in the program. It is possible to rent equipment but this will be more expensive in the long run and the equipment is generally suited to lower level skiers or riders. Buying equipment in the United States or Canada is generally cheaper than elsewhere in the world. As an instructor most shops will offer you discounted equipment on what is called a ‘pro form’(this can often take up to 2-4 weeks to receive the equipment so you will want to have alternate arrangements for the training period). There will be time to purchase (and demo) any required equipment prior to or during the first few days of the training program. Please refer to our gear guide (on our website) for further information.
|
When does the Ultimate Season Training take place and how does this fit with my work commitments?
The Ultimate Season Program components take place between January and April. The training schedule is set with flexibility to accommodate slower and busier times of the season and your days off. The continuous training is a fun time and offers great support, through weekly contact with trainers and your peers; and if you’re lucky you’ll also get a day or two training at a neighbouring resort!
|
What are the taxation requirements in the United States and Canada?
Your employer will deduct and withhold taxes from your pay cheque. This is generally between 10-15%. The tax year in the United States runs from December to December. You will be required to complete a tax return at the end of each the financial year. This is a straightforward process and can be completed online or in person while in the United States. The compliance costs are minimal and it is likely you will receive a refund.
|
When I am required to make payments to Educating Adventures?
At the time of booking we will require a deposit payment of US$1000 (Intensive Program) US$2000 (Ultimate Season Program) to secure your place. Final payments are due by 30 June for bookings made before 31 May. Final payments for bookings made between 31 May and 31 August are due within 30 days and Final payments for bookings made after 31 August are due by 30 September or the time of booking (whichever is earlier).
|
|
|
|
