Skydiving Instructor Career Resource Page

Description of Job: Skydiving instructors guide first-time and returning jumpers through their jumps, ensuring safety and an enjoyable experience. Instructors work primarily in tandem jumps or accelerated freefall (AFF) training, assisting students during the jump and landing procedures. This job is adrenaline-fueled and requires extensive skydiving experience before teaching others.

Pros:

  • Thrilling work environment: The job offers an exciting workday, jumping out of planes and teaching others to experience the thrill of skydiving.

  • High job satisfaction: Many instructors love their jobs because of the excitement and the opportunity to help others achieve a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

  • Flexibility: Skydiving instructors often work seasonally or freelance, providing flexibility in the job.

Cons:

  • Physically demanding: The job requires physical stamina, as instructors must handle equipment and tandem students during the jump.

  • Inconsistent pay: Pay can vary depending on the season, location, and number of jumps performed, with some slower periods.

  • Risk involved: Although safety procedures are stringent, the inherent risks of skydiving remain, including equipment malfunctions and accidents.

Initial and Potential Pay:

  • Initial Pay: Entry-level skydiving instructors start at around $20,000 to $35,000 annually​ (Friendly Skydiver)​(Skydive Cross Keys).

  • Potential Pay: More experienced instructors can earn up to $80,000 annually, particularly in high-volume locations ​(Friendly Skydiver).

Qualifications:

  • Skydiving License: Instructors must complete at least 200 jumps to qualify for basic teaching roles, such as coaching or tandem jumps. Higher qualifications like the AFF certification require 500 jumps and additional training​ (Friendly Skydiver).

  • Certification: A Class 3 FAA medical certificate is required, ensuring the instructor’s health and ability to perform jumps safely.

  • Physical fitness: Instructors need to be in good physical condition to handle the physical demands of skydiving, including carrying gear and assisting students during tandem jumps.

Career Path for the Ambitious:

  • Tandem Master: After gaining experience as a coach or AFF instructor, you can become a tandem master, leading jumps for first-time skydivers.

  • Skydiving Videographer: This specialization involves filming jumps for customers, allowing for additional earnings.

  • Dropzone Manager: With experience, instructors can manage drop zones, overseeing other instructors and daily operations.

How to Find the Job:

  • Apply to drop zones: Most skydiving instructors work at drop zones, where you can apply for instructor roles or gain experience as a coach or packer.

  • Freelancing: Many instructors work on a freelance basis, moving between drop zones based on demand and seasonal work.

How to Land the Job:

  • Gain extensive skydiving experience: Completing the necessary jumps and certifications is crucial to becoming an instructor.

  • Build a reputation: Start by working in related roles, like packing parachutes or coaching, to build experience and a reputation in the skydiving community.

Risk Factors:

  • Fatality Rate: Skydiving instructors face potential risks, but safety protocols have reduced these significantly. While not officially tracked by OSHA, the fatality rate for skydiving is approximately 1 in 500,000 jumps, making it a relatively safe sport when following safety standard​(Skydive Cross Keys).

Notes:

  • Exciting career for thrill-seekers: This job is perfect for those who love adventure and working in a dynamic, outdoor environment.

  • Safety first: Instructors must adhere strictly to safety standards and procedures to ensure their students’ and their own safety during every jump.