How to Be Skydiving Instructor of Record - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 3, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The presence of a Skydiving Instructor of Record is essential to ensure that safety protocols and procedures are followed during skydiving activities. A qualified Instructor of Record monitors the activities of all skydivers, from beginner to expert, and provides the necessary instruction, guidance and supervision to ensure the safety of the participants. The Instructor of Record also has the responsibility of ensuring that the necessary skydiving equipment is used properly and that all participants are aware of any risks associated with the activity. The presence of a qualified Instructor of Record helps to reduce the chance of serious injury or death, as well as providing a valuable learning experience for all participants.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a USPA (United States Parachuting Association) AFF/Tandem Instructor rating. This rating requires a minimum of 200 jumps, an AFF Certification from the USPA, a valid parachute rigger's license, and an endorsement from a USPA Certified Instructor.
Obtain a coach rating from the USPA. This requires a minimum of 500 jumps, including a minimum of 25 jumps with students, an AFF Instructor rating, and an endorsement from a USPA Certified Instructor.
Become a USPA Safety and Training Advisor (STA). This requires a minimum of 1000 jumps, including 50 jumps with students, an AFF Instructor rating and a coach rating, and an endorsement from a USPA Certified Instructor.
Become a USPA Skydiving Instructor of Record (IOR). This requires a minimum of 2000 jumps, including 100 jumps with students, an AFF Instructor rating, a coach rating, and an STA rating, and an endorsement from a USPA Certified Instructor.
Submit an application to the USPA for a Skydiving Instructor of Record rating. This requires providing proof of the required experience as well as completing paperwork verifying current medical insurance and other safety requirements.
Attend a USPA IOR Seminar. The seminar is a two day event that includes classroom instruction, practical exercises, and a written exam.
Pass the IOR exam with a score of 80% or better.
Complete the USPA IOR Checkout Dive with an approved examiner. This consists of completing several jump scenarios that demonstrate proficiency in skydiving instruction.
Once all requirements have been successfully completed, the IOR rating will be granted and you will be allowed to teach skydiving courses on your own.

As a skydiving instructor of record, it is important to stay up to date and efficient in order to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Keeping up with the latest safety regulations, technological advancements and equipment practices is essential. It is also important to stay current on the latest skydiving techniques and methods, as well as to ensure that all safety protocols are being followed.

staying organized and efficient with record keeping, scheduling and paperwork is essential in order to maintain a successful skydiving operation. By staying up to date and organized, skydiving instructors of record can ensure that their operations and participants are safe and well-prepared for each jump.

You may want to check Skydiver Deployment Specialist, Skydiving Flight Logistics Coordinator, and Skydiving Retail Sales Representative for alternative.

Job Description

Ensure regulatory compliance with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, the US Parachute Association (USPA) requirements and local, state and federal laws.
Provide instruction to skydiving students in accordance with USPA and FAA standards.
Ensure that all skydiving students receive thorough safety briefings and adhere to safety protocols.
Supervise student skydiving activities, including pre- and post-jump activities, from the ground and in the air.
Monitor weather conditions and determine when it is safe to jump.
Ensure that all necessary skydiving equipment is inspected and maintained in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and regulations.
Monitor student progress throughout training and provide feedback as needed.
Maintain accurate records of student progress and provide reports to the USPA as needed.
Manage a staff of instructors, including scheduling and evaluating their performance.
Teach advanced skydiving techniques to experienced jumpers.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) pertaining to skydiving and aircraft operations.
Knowledge of skydiving equipment, including parachutes, harnesses, altimeters, helmets, and other gear.
Ability to teach skydiving techniques, such as body position and parachute deployment.
Ability to effectively communicate with skydiving students and other instructors.
Ability to identify and assess potential hazards associated with skydiving activities.
Knowledge of emergency procedures related to skydiving.
Ability to provide first aid/CPR if necessary.
Ability to maintain accurate records of skydiving student progress and aircraft operations.
Knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations governing skydiving activities.
Ability to perform pre- and post-flight inspections of aircraft and skydiving equipment.

Being a successful skydiving instructor of record requires a wide range of skills. One of the most important skills to have is an in-depth knowledge of skydiving safety protocols and procedures. Its also important to have excellent communication and problem-solving skills to ensure the safety of all on the ground and in the air.

It is also beneficial to have a good understanding of skydiving equipment, the workings of the skydiving environment, and how to respond to different situations in the air. having strong interpersonal skills is essential when dealing with students and working with other instructors of record. Finally, having the ability to remain calm, even in stressful situations, is also key to being an effective skydiving instructor of record.

All of these skills are essential to ensure that all skydiving activities are conducted in a safe and controlled environment.

Skydiving Adventure Guide, Skydiving Logistics Manager, and Professional Skydiver are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How long have you been a skydiving instructor?
What experience do you have in teaching skydiving?
How familiar are you with the latest FAA regulations for skydiving?
What safety protocols do you use when teaching skydiving?
How do you handle students who are new to skydiving?
What techniques do you use to ensure a safe and successful skydiving experience?
How do you keep track of student progress during the skydiving course?
Are you comfortable teaching a variety of students, including those with special needs?
Describe your experience with emergency response and rescue techniques.
What methods do you use to motivate students during the skydiving course?

Common Tools in Industry

Parachute. A device used to slow a person or object's descent through the air (eg: round canopy parachute).
Automatic Activation Device (AAD). A device that is used to automatically deploy an emergency parachute at a predetermined altitude (eg: Cypres 2).
Altimeter. An instrument used to measure altitude (eg: digital wrist altimeter).
Rigging and Packing Tools. A set of tools used to inspect, adjust and pack parachutes (eg: rigging knife, packing mat, zipper puller).
Communication Equipment. A set of equipment used to communicate with other skydivers during jumps (eg: helmet-mounted radio, hand-held radio).
Emergency Procedures Manual. A document containing procedures for emergency situations (eg: emergency landing, canopy malfunction).
First Aid Kit. A set of medical supplies and medications used to treat a variety of injuries and illnesses (eg: bandages, splints, antiseptic).
Jump Ticket. A document issued by a skydiving center or instructor authorizing a skydiver to make a jump (eg: student jump ticket, tandem jump ticket).

Professional Organizations to Know

United States Parachute Association (USPA)
British Skydiving
Skydive Europe
Canadian Sport Parachuting Association (CSPA)
Australian Parachute Federation (APF)
Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI)
International Bodyflight Association (IBA)
World Freefall Convention (WFC)
Skydive Chicago
Skydive Las Vegas

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Common Important Terms

Skydiving. Skydiving is the recreational or competitive activity of jumping from an aircraft or other high places and using a parachute to slow the fall to the ground.
Aircraft. An aircraft is a vehicle that is able to fly by gaining support from the air.
Parachute. A parachute is a device used to slow down the descent of an object through the air, allowing for a safe landing.
Instructor of Record. An Instructor of Record is an individual who has been certified to teach skydiving and has been designated as responsible for ensuring that the training meets all safety and regulatory standards.
Jump Master. A Jump Master is a certified skydiver who is responsible for leading a group of skydivers on a jump. The Jump Master is responsible for briefing the jumpers on the flight profile and exit procedure, as well as monitoring the jumpers during the flight and during their descent.
USPA. The United States Parachute Association (USPA) is the national governing body for skydiving in the United States. USPA certifies instructors and provides safety guidelines for skydiving operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are necessary to become a Skydiving Instructor of Record?

To become a Skydiving Instructor of Record, individuals must meet the requirements of the USPA (United States Parachute Association) and hold a USPA Coach or Instructor rating and have at least 500 documented skydives.

How much does it cost to become a Skydiving Instructor of Record?

The cost to become a Skydiving Instructor of Record is typically around $2,000, which includes the required USPA Coach or Instructor rating, in addition to other fees.

How long does it take to become a Skydiving Instructor of Record?

Becoming a Skydiving Instructor of Record typically takes several months. This includes completing the required USPA Coach or Instructor rating, which can take up to 8 weeks to complete.

What are the responsibilities of a Skydiving Instructor of Record?

The primary responsibility of a Skydiving Instructor of Record is to provide instruction and guidance to other skydivers, as well as ensure that all safety protocols are adhered to. They are also responsible for assisting in the planning and execution of skydiving activities.

What type of insurance is required for Skydiving Instructors of Record?

All Skydiving Instructors of Record must have liability insurance that meets the requirements set forth by the USPA. The amount of coverage required varies depending on the number of students that the instructor is teaching, but typically ranges from $1 million to $5 million.

Web Resources

JPCatholic Professor Sets Skydiving World Record jpcatholic.edu
Skydiving - Ohio State University sfhp.ehe.osu.edu
Skydiving Instructor: An Offbeat Job? | New York English www.newyork-english.edu