Ski Patrol is a very challenging and rewarding opportunity. If you love the outdoors, love helping people, and have adequate skiing or riding ability, we welcome you to join a great group of people!
There are three distinct roles within the Big Bear Ski Patrol:
- Basic Patroller (on-hill) – functions on the hill in all aspects of Patrol duties
- Room Patroller – provides emergency care inside the Patrol Room (no skiing req’d)
- Hill Safety Team (non-medical) – acts to promote the safety and enjoyment of our guests
Some of the attributes we are seeking and will be assessing throughout the training include:
- Commitment to and enthusiasm for Ski Patrol programs
- Skills necessary to be an effective patroller (first aid, toboggan handling, etc.)
- Continued interest (we want you to be part of the program over the long haul)
- Ability to work as part of a team, as well as leadership skill
- At least a strong intermediate skiing ability (not applicable to Auxiliary)
- Willingness to learn & positive attitude
- Desire TO HAVE FUN! Yes, fun is an important part of what we do.
The initial step in joining the patrol is to enroll in an Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) course. These courses typically run immediately after the season ends and before the season begins. This course teaches you the emergency care skills required for Ski Patrol. At the end of the course, you must pass a written test as well as a practical (hands-on) test to demonstrate your skills.
After successful completion of the OEC course, you become a Candidate. Candidate training takes place on the hill during the ski season, starting in early November. You will strengthen your first aid skills, learn hill protocol, as well as learn your way around the mountain. You will also be trained on how to pull a toboggan, which you will use to transport guests, injured or not. The final test to earn your “bones” (the white cross of the National Ski Patrol) will require you to successfully assess an injured guest, provide the best care needed and transport to the patrol room.
What are the expectations of a Big Bear Ski Patrol?
Patrollers are required to work 12 days per season, generally from December to March. Shifts for volunteers are from ~ 8am – 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays. You can also work certain holidays during the season (Christmas week, Presidents Day, Easter, etc).
What does it cost?
The first year (Candidate year) is the most challenging in both time & financial commitment:
- The OEC course with books and materials ($160)
- CPR/AED ($55)
- National Ski Patrol annual dues are $105
- Black ski/riding pants and red Patrol jacket upon completion (our uniform)
What are the benefits?
Benefits include working with some of the best people who share your enthusiasm for outdoor sports. Pro Deals (~40-50% off gear), season pass for you and your family, free skiing/riding instruction, social activities, and satisfaction in helping. There is also continuing education available in avalanche, mountain survival, advanced skiing/tobogganing and first aid, etc. We feel you get out of our Patrol what you put in. Many of the patrollers have 20+ years of seniority and they’re always willing to help.
Please email us at recruiting@bigbearskipatrol.com and provide the following:
- Name, Phone, Email
- How’d you find out about Big Bear Ski Patrol?
- Any other fun facts about you!
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