​There’s really no such thing as a typical ski patroller. Nevertheless, when you hear the words “ski patroller,” you probably think of someone performing a mountain-side rescue of an injured skier. The truth is, it takes all kinds to make this team. Emergency care is an important part of the mission of the National Ski Patrol. We educate. We communicate. We participate!

​When it comes to being a ski patroller, there is no mold. There are, however, some common traits that all patrollers share. National Ski Patrol members have a strong desire to help others, learn emergency care techniques, improve their skiing and snowboarding skills, and enhance the safety and enjoyment of snow sports for all. Sound like you? Read on to learn how you can join our elite team.

Find Your Niche

Many ski areas depend on volunteer patrol members to meet their many needs. Other areas employ full-time or part-time paid patrollers, or use a combination of paid and volunteer staff to provide patrol services. We encourage you to contact the patrol directors at the ski and snowboard areas of your choice to get an idea of the specific qualifications and experience they are seeking for their patrollers. Although the national office may not know the patroller needs at a specific area, we can direct you to patrol directors near your location. In any case, the profile of the National Ski Patrol member is that of a person willing to work hard, devote many hours, and continually enhance personal knowledge and skills.

Work Hard, Play Hard

There’s nothing more rewarding than putting in a hard day’s work-and having a good time doing it. The main objective of being a National Ski Patrol member is to support the area management function of caring for injured skiers and in making mountain recreation safer and more fun. But, there are many other benefits. You’ll be a respected part of the industry. You’ll perfect your skills. And you’ll make friendships that will last a lifetime.

Gain The Advantages Of Higher Education

National Ski Patrol education programs offer you the chance to learn about emergency care, search and rescue, avalanche control, lift evacuation, mountaineering, toboggan handling, and other interesting topics! You’ll test your knowledge and your skills with personalized support from your area and fellow patrollers. You’ll also receive a free subscription to Ski Patrol Magazine, which provides timely information about emergency care techniques, skiing and snowboarding tips, association news, and more. NSP programs are an exciting challenge-in the classroom and on the slopes!

Advanced First Aid

An OEC (Outdoor Emergency Care) course is offered through the NSP. Actively licensed EMT’s, nurses or physicians can take a ‘bridging’ course in lieu of the full OEC course.

CPR Course

A current CPR card. NSP recognizes either American Red Cross or The Heart Association. CPR must be renewed every year, even those with multi-year expiration dates.

Skills

The National Ski Patrol has various patroller roles. Once a new member or candidate passes all the first aid skill tests, they become a Basic patroller. Strong skiers or snowboarders train with toboggans and become Basic Patrollers who primarily function on the hill.

Age

There are two different programs within the National Ski Patrol.

Basic, start at age 18 years and older.

Minimum age for a Young Adult Patroller (YAP) is 15 and is available for younger people with primary focus on First Aid and Skiing and Snowboarding skills. Note the age minimum requirement is set by management and may vary at each ski area.