Dany Brooks is director of communications for the United States Parachute
Association. Brooks says there are close to 8,000 skydivers who have ratings
as instructors. However, not all skydivers who have been certified as instructors
work as instructors.
Al Gramando, who owns a company that sells skydiving equipment, estimates
that around 80 percent of American instructors have other jobs. A few instructors
have made it big by owning aircraft and drop zones themselves, but they are
in the minority.
Skydiving instructors may be paid per class or paid a salary. Brooks says
that some instructors work in the north during the summer, then move south
in the winter to work -- following the good weather.
Many instructors are paid per class and their wages depend on the type
of student they're teaching and their qualifications.
There are no benefits, no paid holidays, no overtime wages and no retirement
plans. But if you have a passion for throwing yourself out of an airplane
at 9,000 feet and communicating that thrill to others -- then go for it!
Earnings and employment information from the U.S. Department of Labor is
not available for this field at this time.