Join Us
First Steps
Reach out to the Patrol Director, NSP Patrol Representative, or recruiter at your preferred resort or bike patrol.
Each Patrol has a unique calendar, qualifications, and requirements. Patrol positions may be volunteer, paid, or a blend of both. Ask the representative about their intake process, important dates, and capacity for new patrol candidates.
Current contact information for patrol representatives can be found here
Additionally please scroll through and fill out the Request for Information form so that we can pass your request along to the appropriate patrol rep.
See below for more information on different patrol programs
Joining the National Ski Patrol
When you hear the words "ski patroller" you probably think of someone performing a mountain-side rescue of an injured skier with impressive technical skiing. While emergency care and skiing skills are an important part of the mission of the National Ski Patrol the remain just that, parts. The truth is there really is no such thing as a typical ski patroller, it takes all kinds to make this team. We educate. We communicate. We participate!
National Ski Patrol members are people with a strong desire to help others. People who want to learn - and use - emergency care skills, improve their skiing or snowboarding, and help make mountain recreation safer for all. If this sounds like you, read on and find out how you can join this exclusive team!
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.
Types of Patrollers
National Ski Patrol membership includes a variety of roles with different functions. You may find the following roles present at any given area:
Alpine Patroller - A person who provides emergency response and care to injured or ill resort guests, with responsibility for a wide variety of area safety activities. Requires skiing or snowboarding skills and is based out of an Alpine/Downhill ski area.
Nordic Patroller - A person who provides emergency response and care to injured or ill area visitors, with responsibility for a wide array of safety activities. Requires skiing skills and is based at a Cross Country ski area.
Patroller - Usually found in the aid room, this person provides emergency care to injured or ill guests, but may not transport guests off the hill slope. May help lead training and education activities. Skiing or snowboarding skills helpful but not always mandatory.
Bike Patroller - A person who provides emergency care to injured or ill area cyclists, with a responsibility for a wide variety of area safety activities. Requires cycling skills and is based out of a recreation area.
Mountain Host - An individual who wants to help with the mountain operations at their local ski area. They may help with direction of guests, sharing of information, identification of first aid needs, assist with scene safety, and a variety of other tasks. Skiing or snowboarding skills helpful but not always mandatory.
Physician Partner - A volunteer physician who assists with Outdoor Emergency Care training and general medical training of patrollers.
Associate Member - An individual who has a need or desire to take National Ski Patrol courses and be associated with the National Ski Patrol.
Benefits of Patrolling
Patrolling offers those who join, many skills and benefits:
Skills Education & Experience - 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 will have opportunities to learn these skills, and apply them in a hands-on setting.
Resources & Information - You'll also receive access to resources, and classes at NSP.org and subscription to Ski Patrol Magazine, which provides timely information about emergency care techniques, skiing and snowboarding tips, association news, and more. NSP educational programs are an exciting challenge; in the classroom and on the slopes!
Pro Deals - NSP membership entitles you to discounts on major brands through partner programs.
Area Benefits - Many ski areas offer their active patrol members additional benefits for serving in their areas.
Work Hard, Play Hard - There is nothing more rewarding than putting in a hard day's work; helping others in their time of need, and having a great time doing it. You will perfect your skills and make friendships that last a lifetime!
Medical Training
All patrol candidates are required to obtain Outdoor Emergency Care Technician (OEC) certification. Medical professionals (M.D./D.O./MBBS, PA/NP, RN, LPN, EMT) and EMT, WFR certifications can 'challenge' the course with an abbreviated schedule, bridging their credential to OEC.
Mountain and Bike Hosts must obtain Outdoor First Care (OFC) certification as a minimum qualification
OEC and OFC classes occur in regions throughout the US. Some are face-to-face, others are hybrid.
NSP membership is required to access these courses. Create an account here