How to Be Ski Guide - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 6, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The rising popularity of skiing has caused a dramatic rise in ski-related tourism, leading to increased demand for ski guides. Ski guides are specially trained professionals who are knowledgeable in mountain safety, terrain navigation, and avalanche awareness. They are also able to provide tips on skiing technique, local knowledge of the best runs, and can even provide first aid if necessary. As a result of the increased demand for ski guides, the cost of ski holidays has risen significantly, making it more difficult for the average person to go skiing.

Steps How to Become

Obtain the Necessary Certification. Before becoming a ski guide, you must first become certified. Depending on the country, certification requirements vary. In the United States, you must pass the National Ski Patrol's Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) course. To become certified, you must complete the OEC course, which includes a two-day classroom and field instruction. Additionally, you must also pass a written exam and practical skills assessment. In the US, you can find OEC classes at many ski resorts and ski patrol institutions.
Obtain a Professional Ski Guide Certification. After successfully completing the OEC course, you may need to obtain additional certifications to become a professional ski guide. Depending on the country, this certification may vary. In the US, you must obtain a Professional Ski Guide (PSG) certification from the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA). To become certified, you must complete an additional two-day classroom and field instruction course. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive your PSG certification.
Get Experience. Once you have obtained the necessary certifications, it is important to get experience as a ski guide. Most guides start out as assistants or apprentices to experienced ski guides. You can find these positions at many ski resorts or through private companies who offer guided tours.
Obtain a Professional Guide License. Depending on the country or state you are in, you may need to obtain a professional guide license in order to legally guide ski tours. Licensing requirements vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so be sure to research your local licensing requirements prior to becoming a professional ski guide.
Network with Other Guides. It is important to network with other ski guides in order to gain additional experience and learn from their experiences. Additionally, networking with other ski guides will help you to stay up-to-date on current industry trends and best practices. You can network with other guides by joining online forums, attending industry events, or by simply talking with other guides at your local ski resort.

In order to stay up-to-date and competent as a ski guide, it is important to keep up with the latest developments in the sport. This can be accomplished by subscribing to ski-related magazines, reading news outlets that cover the sport, attending ski-related conferences and seminars, and participating in recreational ski trips. Doing so will help ensure that the guide remains knowledgeable about skiing techniques, safety protocols, the latest gear, and new trails and skiing areas.

staying engaged with the skiing community can help a guide stay connected with other guides, enabling them to discuss best practices and share tips and tricks for successful trips. Finally, a ski guide should stay current in their certification and training requirements, so they can provide their clients with the highest level of service possible.

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Job Description

Ski Guide: Responsible for leading groups of skiers on ski terrain, providing instruction and advice on ski technique, safety and environmental issues.
Ski Instructor: Teaches skiing techniques to individuals or groups of all ages and levels. Responsible for ensuring a safe, enjoyable and productive learning environment.
Ski Patrol: Performs mountain safety duties, such as avalanche control, first aid and rescue, avalanche rescue, and mountain safety education.
Ski Lift Operator: Operates ski lifts to transport skiers safely and efficiently to the mountain top.
Ski Rental Technician: Assists customers in selecting the best equipment for their skill level and body type. Responsible for inspecting, adjusting and repairing ski equipment.
Ski Resort Manager: Responsible for the overall management of a ski resort, including budgeting, personnel management, marketing and customer service.
Ski Equipment Salesperson: Responsible for helping customers find the right ski equipment and providing advice on the best products for their needs.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of terrain and snow conditions
Ability to assess avalanche risk
Ability to provide instruction and guidance
Ability to provide first aid and emergency response
Ability to navigate in difficult terrain
Ability to assess and manage group dynamics
Knowledge of mountain environment and safety protocols
Knowledge of ski/snowboard equipment and maintenance
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to maintain composure in challenging situations

The most important skill to have when skiing is the ability to read the terrain. Being able to read the terrain quickly and accurately allows you to anticipate potential obstacles and assess the safest and most efficient route. This skill is essential for avoiding dangerous terrain and unpredictable conditions, both of which can lead to a serious accident.

Knowing how to read terrain also helps you assess the snow conditions and identify the best lines for achieving maximum speed and control. In addition, being able to read the terrain allows you to plan ahead and make decisions about how and where to ski. By understanding the contours of the mountain, you'll be better prepared for any potential hazards and be able to ski with more confidence.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have leading ski tours?
How do you ensure the safety of your ski tour group?
Describe a time when you had to respond to an emergency situation while on a ski tour.
In what types of terrain and weather conditions are you most comfortable skiing?
What do you do to prepare for a ski tour?
How do you handle difficult or unruly guests on a ski tour?
What strategies do you use to manage the group dynamic while skiing?
What steps do you take to ensure the group has a positive experience?
What type of maintenance and safety procedures do you follow when leading a ski tour?
What do you enjoy most about being a ski guide?

Common Tools in Industry

Ski Poles. Used to balance and maintain forward momentum while skiing. (eg: lightweight aluminum ski poles)
Ski Bindings. Secure the boot to the ski to provide control and safety while skiing. (eg: release bindings)
Avalanche Beacon. A device used to locate a person buried in an avalanche. (eg: Mammut Pulse Barryvox)
Ski Goggles. Protective eyewear designed to provide clarity and protection from the elements. (eg: Smith Optics I/O ChromaPop goggles)
Ski Helmet. Safety gear designed to protect the head from potential falls and impacts. (eg: Salomon MTN Lab helmet)
Ski Gloves. Gloves designed to keep hands warm and provide extra grip on skis and poles. (eg: Hestra Army Leather Heli Mitts)
Avalung. A device worn around the neck that provides oxygen while buried in an avalanche. (eg: Black Diamond Avalung II)
Ski Skins. Attached to the bottom of skis to provide grip when climbing up slopes. (eg: G3 Alpinist Skins)
Ski Map. A map of the ski area showing various runs, lifts, and other features. (eg: Vail Resort Trail Map)
Ski Boot Bag. A bag designed to protect ski boots while traveling or storing them away. (eg: Dakine Low Roller Boot Bag)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE)
American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA)
Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA)
International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF)
International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA)
Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA)
United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA)
Professional Ski Instructors Association of Canada (PSIAC)
International Ski Federation (FIS)
International Snow Science Workshop (ISSW)

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Common Important Terms

Alpine Skiing. A type of skiing that typically takes place on a downhill slope using skis and ski poles.
Freestyle Skiing. A type of skiing that involves performing tricks and stunts while skiing on a terrain park or half-pipe.
Cross-Country Skiing. A type of skiing that involves skis and poles used to traverse long distances over flat or hilly terrain.
Backcountry Skiing. A type of skiing that involves skiing in remote, ungroomed areas away from established ski areas.
Telemark Skiing. A type of skiing that involves a curved ski and a special free-heel binding allowing for a unique style of turns and maneuvers.
Mogul Skiing. A type of skiing that involves navigating through a series of bumps on a downhill slope.
Ski Clothing. Clothing specifically designed for skiing, including jackets, pants, hats, gloves, and goggles.
Ski Boots. Specialized boots used for skiing to provide comfort, support, and warmth while on the slopes.
Ski Poles. Two poles used while skiing to help maintain balance and stability while traversing the terrain.
Avalanche Safety. Precautions taken to avoid being caught in an avalanche while skiing in the backcountry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age for a Ski Guide?

The minimum age for a Ski Guide is 18 years old.

What qualifications are needed to become a Ski Guide?

To become a Ski Guide, you must have a valid ski instructor certification from the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) or the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance (CSIA).