Ski and Ride School, Director

Year Round
WORK AND PLAY IN THE MOUNTAINS
Join our team of big mountain adventurers at the largest ski resort in Washington! Here at Crystal, it’s more than our work. It’s our passion for the guest experience, the outdoors, and the community that bring us together at the end of the tree-lined road. We come from near and far to be up on the mountain because it’s an experience you just don’t get anywhere else. Events are always on the calendar and friends are always down to play. Work in the beautiful National Forest, neighboring Mt. Rainier, as a premier Ikon Pass destination with a whole lot of stoke to share.
JUST LIKE THE TREES, WE ARE GROWING! Apply today to grow your mountain roots with us— whether you are looking to escape the city, expand your skills, or progress in the ski industry, we have a variety of roles for hard-working and enthusiastic team-players. Find your line, join our team!
BIG PEAKS, BIGGER PERKS
Employee perks:
Free Alterra season pass (unlimited, direct to lift at all Alterra resorts)
+ Free Alterra season pass for spouse and dependents 25 & under
50% off window ticket price at IKON partner resorts
Free access to Alterra Mountain destinations during time off
Free ski-referral letters for employees to use at other mountain resorts during time off
Free friends & family day-ski vouchers (Periodic allotment)
Discounts on Ski & Snowboard Lessons
Discounts on Ski & Snowboard Rentals
Discounts on Gear Tune-Ups
Discounts on Food & Beverage
Discounts at Crystal Mountain Retail shops
Free Crystal branded swag
Pro deals on gear with 100s of brands
Discount Marketplace
Deals on accessories, auto, electronics, entertainment, fitness, food, home, pet supplies, travel, and more
Employee-only Night Skiing events
Employee Housing Available for eligible positions
Accrued paid time off for eligible positions
Group health insurance for eligible positions
401K benefit and generous match with immediate vesting for all staff members over 18
Opportunities for growth, advancement, and year-round employment
Position Title: Ski & Ride School Director
Business Unit: Ski & Ride School
Position Reports to: Director, Resort Finance
Positions Reporting to this Role: Managers, Supervisors, Training Staff
Location: Crystal Mountain, WA
Job Type: Full-Time, Year-Round
Wage Range: $83,479.54 – $116,871.36, Bonus eligible
Crystal Mountain is the Pacific North West’s premier destination for skiers, snowboarders, and summer adventurers. We are part of Alterra Mountain Company which consists of some of the world’s most aspirational brands.
A career with Crystal Mountain is more than what you do today; it’s being part of creating a community rooted in the spirit of the mountains, united by a passion for adventure, and celebrating the legendary adventures and enduring memories that mountains bring to everyone.
Crystal Mountain delivers best in class service and adventures worthy of our extraordinary terrain and beauty.
We are here to shape the future of mountain adventure.
We Embrace Empowerment
We Honor Authenticity
We Cultivate Collaboration
We Prioritize Purpose
JOB SUMMARY
Crystal Mountain Resort is seeking an experienced and passionate Ski & Ride School Director to lead and develop our ski and snowboard instruction programs. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Ski & Ride School, ensuring exceptional guest experiences, staff training, program development, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate is a dynamic leader with strong communication, organizational, and team-building skills, as well as a deep passion for winter sports and mountain culture.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
LEADERSHIP & TEAM MANAGEMENT
Recruit, hire, train, and manage a team of ski and snowboard instructors.
Foster a positive and inclusive team culture that promotes safety, professionalism, and exceptional guest service.
Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and performance evaluations for instructors and supervisors.
Maintain open communication with resort leadership and collaborate on resort-wide initiatives.
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT & GUEST EXPERIENCE
Design and oversee lesson programs for all ages and ability levels, including private and group lessons, multi-week programs, and specialty clinics.
Ensure the highest level of guest satisfaction by maintaining high-quality instruction, safety standards, and friendly service.
Implement innovative teaching techniques and training programs to keep the school competitive and engaging.
Act as a visible presence on the mountain, interacting with guests and instructors to ensure a positive learning environment.
OPERATIONAL & FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Develop and manage the Ski & Ride School budget, ensuring financial efficiency and revenue growth.
Oversee lesson pricing, scheduling, and instructor payroll to optimize operations.
Collaborate with resort departments, including Lift Operations, Marketing, and Guest Services, to enhance the guest experience and drive participation in lessons.
Ensure compliance with all industry standards, safety regulations, and resort policies.
SAFETY & RISK MANAGEMENT
Uphold and enforce all resort safety policies, ensuring instructors are trained in risk management, emergency procedures, and guest safety.
Work closely with Ski Patrol and Mountain Operations to create a safe learning environment for guests and staff.
Monitor mountain conditions and adjust lesson plans accordingly.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS
Minimum of 5 years of experience in ski and snowboard instruction, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
PSIA/AASI Level 3 Certification (or equivalent) strongly preferred. Divisional Education Staff experience preferred.
Extensive knowledge of ski and snowboard instruction methodologies and industry best practices.
Strong leadership, team-building, and coaching skills.
Excellent organizational and communication abilities.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic mountain environment.
Proficiency in budgeting, scheduling, and staff management.
Passion for skiing, snowboarding, and delivering outstanding guest experiences.