Backcountry Ski/Snowboard Instructor

Looking for a seasonal opportunity that balances rewarding work with the chance to live your best mountain lifestyle? Join us at Devil’s Thumb Ranch for winter employment, available from late November through early April. With perks designed to satisfy your winter adventure dreams—like affordable housing, discounted ski passes, and complimentary access to our Nordic trails—you’ll find the Ranch is more than a workplace, it’s an experience.

Principle Purpose of Job

The Backcountry Ski/Snowboard Instructor is responsible for consistently delivering exceptional service that supports the mission and success of Devil’s Thumb Ranch. The Backcountry Ski/Snowboard Instructor will provide backcountry ski tours and instruction for guests of all skill levels, guiding guests on technique, safety, and equipment use. This role is expected to uphold the resort's guiding principles and service standards, ensuring an inviting and memorable experience for every guest.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

· Instruct and guide guests in backcountry skiing, providing expertise in technique, equipment use, avalanche awareness, and mountain safety.

· Lead Snowcat-assisted ski tours and excursions when applicable.

· Assess guest abilities, adapt instruction to varying skill levels, and ensure an enjoyable and safe learning environment.

· Educate guests on backcountry travel practices, including Leave No Trace principles and environmental stewardship.

· Maintain current knowledge of terrain, snowpack, and weather conditions; communicate updates with Activities Center staff and guests.

· Perform pre-tour equipment checks, provide basic gear maintenance, and assist guests with rentals as needed.

· Collaborate with the Activities team to support special events, programs, and broader Ranch recreation operations.

· Act as an ambassador for Devil’s Thumb Ranch by providing exceptional guest service and upholding resort standards at all times. 

· Minimum of 5 years of experience in ski instruction, guiding, or mountain leadership; backcountry guiding experience required.

· Demonstrated experience with Snowcat-accessed skiing/touring strongly preferred.

· Professional certifications in avalanche safety (AIARE 1/2 or equivalent) required; Wilderness First Responder or higher medical training strongly preferred.

· High school diploma or GED required; college education in Outdoor Recreation, Adventure Leadership, or a related field preferred.

· Ability to ski confidently in all snow conditions and varied terrain.

· Must be in excellent physical condition with the ability to lift and move 50+ lbs and work long hours in alpine environments.

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills with proven ability to manage groups safely and effectively.

· Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record; ability to operate resort vehicles and Snowcats a plus.

· Flexible availability, including weekends, holidays, and variable weather conditions.

· Commitment to safety, professionalism, and delivering memorable guest experiences.

Compensation Description:

$25.00/hr + Tips Competitive pay commensurate with education and experience. 

Benefits and Perks:

· Affordable Housing – starting as low as $196.15 per paycheck

· Winter Park Resort Ski Pass – starting as low as $250 with employer match

· Grand County Rec Center – $137.50 for a 6-month pass

· Employee Discounts – on lodging, food, gear, and lessons

· Retail/Gear Discounts – savings on essential equipment

· Discounted Resort Room Rates – for self, friends & family (as availability allows)

· DTR Winter Passes – complimentary Nordic ski passes & equipment (based on availability)

· Discounted Spa Treatments – unwind with reduced-rate services at Ranch Creek Spa

· Free Mountain Bike Trail Pass – plus 25% off rentals (great for shoulder season)

· Free Employee Shuttle – from staff housing to work and key county locations

· Employee Events – social activities, gatherings, and community celebrations

Due to the nature of our 24-hour operation, there is no guaranteed work schedule. Managers will try to accommodate specific schedule requests, but they are never guaranteed if business volume prohibits. 

The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility. It should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences of relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.

Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.