Before embarking on a career as an instructor, you first need to be qualified by a recognised body. You’ll want to qualify with a body that is part of the ISIA (International Ski Instructors Association), allowing you to instruct across the globe. Organisations such as the CSIA, BASI and NZSIA are extremely well-regarded worldwide.

There are usually four levels of certification and to teach around the world you’ll normally need a minimum of a Level 2. As you gain experience, you can work towards the higher levels, as well as specialise in certain disciplines such as race or freestyle.

For budding instructors, the most straightforward way to achieve instructor status is by completing a ski instructor course or snowboard instructor course.

Check out our guide on how to become a ski instructor for more detail.

As an instructor you can teach all over the world, but before settling on somewhere you must consider:

• Where your qualifications are recognised
• Whether you need, and can secure, a working visa

With an internationally-recognised qualification and visa eligibility, chances are you’ll be able to instruct almost anywhere. Popular destinations for ski and snowboard instructors include:

• Canada
• USA
• Japan
• UK
• Italy
• Switzerland
• France*
• Austria
• New Zealand
• Australia

Check out our guide on the best places to work as a ski instructor for inspiration.

Landing a job as a ski or snowboard instructor can sometimes be challenging, especially when you’re starting out as a rookie. But with the right attitude, you’ll have no trouble securing your dream position. Here are a few tips:

• Shortlist opportunities. Start by shortlisting some of the countries and resorts you wish to work at and check out their websites for further information.
• Touch base with your training company and utilise their network of snow school connections. Nonstop, for example, has a large database of contacts exclusively for our graduates to use.
• Ask your trainers for advice and a reference. They may be able to recommend where you should consider teaching, put you directly in touch with the right person, and offer a respected reference.
• Cast the net wide. For maximum success, send out as many applications as you can and introduce yourself to any many employers as possible
• Ensure your application is on point. It goes without saying, but take time to prepare your CV and cover letter to best sell yourself.

As a rookie instructor without experience, it can be challenging to secure work at big-name resorts, like Whistler. Snow schools at such resorts will be inundated with applications, probably from more experienced pros with higher level qualifications.

When you’re breaking into the industry, it can play to your favour to work at smaller ski hills, where you’ll receive lots of work and gain experience quickly. With a season’s instructing under your belt, more doors will open and you’ll have many more options.

When to apply will vary from resort to resort. To be certain you should look at the website of the resort you are interested in applying to. If in doubt, it is always better to be slightly early rather than too late.

For the northern hemisphere, you should start looking at end of June / beginning of July.

For the southern hemisphere, you can start applying to some resorts in January but some don’t take applications until February or March.

You won’t always have the luxury of choosing where you work. You may send out many applications but only hear back from a few. However, as you gain experience and ascend the instructor levels, you’ll have many more options. If you do, it’s a good idea to take your time selecting a resort and employer that will suit your goals.

Factors you may want to consider include:

• How much work you want or need – how many hours/days can you expect to work? Are you guaranteed a minimum number of hours? How long is the season?
• Remuneration and perks – what is the rate of pay for your level and what else is included (e.g. accommodation)? Are there opportunities to earn extra money?
• Amount and quality of the training – if you are working towards your next level of certification, you’ll want to ensure the snow school offers regular training
• Long-term prospects – will there be an opportunity to return in the future? Will the snow school sponsor you to come back?
• Size of the resort – how big is the resort and is there enough terrain to keep you challenged and motivated?
• Average snowfall – how much snow does the resort receive? Will you get many powder days?
• Whether the resort has a good terrain park – if you’re a park rider and enjoy teaching freestyle, you may want to work at a resort with a good park set-up.

Explore our ski instructor courses / snowboard instructor courses to start your snow-chasing lifestyle.