Wanna Work a Ski Season in Canada? Here’s How
So, you want to work a ski season in Canada? That’s great!
Canada is a winter wonderland and a mecca for ski lovers from all over the world. If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to spend your winter, working a ski season in Canada might be the perfect option for you.
Canadian ski resorts are always looking for seasonal workers to help with their day-to-day operations.
But before you can start packing your bags, there are a few things you need to know. In this blog post, I’ll give you useful tips on how to work a ski season in Canada, what kind of working visas you need, and how to find a ski season job.
So read on for all the information you need to make your dream of working a ski season in Canada come true!
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The List of ski resorts in Canada
There are many different ski resorts located across the country that offer the opportunity to work a ski season.
Here’s a list of the biggest ski resorts in Canada where you can find seasonal work ranging from lift operators to food and retail positions:
- Whistler Blackcomb: located in British Columbia, is one of the most popular destinations for those looking to work a ski season. The resort is home to two mountains, over 200 trails, and various shops and restaurants.
- Banff Sunshine Village: Located in Banff National Park in Alberta, this resort features some of the most breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies, with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. The town of Banff is especially magical around Christmas.
- Big White Ski Resort: Situated in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Big White is one of the largest ski resorts in Canada, with over 116 marked trails and 22 lifts.
- Mont Tremblant in Quebec: This resort is located in the Laurentian Mountains and features 95 trails and 12 lifts.
- Marmot Basin: Located in Jasper National Park in Alberta, Marmot Basin is a smaller resort with just over 300 acres of skiable terrain but don’t let its size fool you. Marmot Basin is a popular destination for those looking for ski season work in Canada.
Ski resorts in Eastern Canada:
Mont Tremblant, Blue Mountain, Le Massif, Marble Mountain
Ski resorts in Banff:
Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, Mt Norquay
Ski resorts in British Columbia:
Whistler Blackcomb, Mount Washington, Grouse, Seymour, Cypress, Sun Peaks, Big White, Silver Star, Revelstoke, Kicking Horse, Panorama, Apex, Hudson Bay Mountain
Each of these resorts offers its own unique work experience, and all provide the opportunity to work and play in some of the most stunning scenery in the world.
Ski Resort Jobs in Canada
Now that you know where you can work a ski season in Canada let’s talk about the job market.
Canada ski season jobs run approximately from late October to April.
As I mentioned before, ski resorts are always looking for seasonal employees to help with business operations during this time.
Most ski resorts will have positions available in the following departments:
-Lift Operations
-Snow School
-Food and Beverage
-Retail
-Guest Services
The most popular positions that people look for when they want to work a ski season are lift operators, ski and snowboard instructors, and retail workers.
However, there are many other job positions available:
– in the rental shop
– at the ski school
– in childcare
– a housekeeper in one of the mountain lodges
– in food and beverage, including restaurants, cafes, and bars
– in guest services
– a shuttle driver.
The best way to find out what positions are available is to contact the resort directly or check their website.
How to find work at ski resorts in Canada?
There are a few different ways to go about finding ski resort work in Canada.
- Online Job Boards
The best place to start is by looking online. There are a number of websites that list seasonal jobs at ski resorts all across Canada, such as Indeed and Glassdoor. So take some time to browse through these websites and see if anything catches your eye.
- Check Ski Resort Websites
You can also contact the resorts directly and inquire about work opportunities. Many resorts have online job listings on their websites.
- Attend Job Fair
If you’re already in Canada, there are often job fairs held at popular ski destinations just before the winter season kicks off. Here you can network with resort staff and let people know that you’re looking for work which can increase your chances of getting hired.
- Seasonal Job Placement Companies
Another option is to inquire with a company that specializes in filling specific roles for seasonal jobs in Canada. These companies work with a variety of businesses to find international applicants.
Many of these companies also provide support and guidance throughout the process, from finding the right job to obtaining the necessary work visa. They offer seasonal jobs worldwide. It will cost you to go with them, but they take care of everything for you in advance.
Here are some work and travel agencies:
- BUNAC
- the Working Holiday Club
- Global Work and Travel
- Workaseason.
Useful resources to find ski jobs in Canada:
- Season workers (Ski Jobs)
- Ski Resort Jobs (Ski Jobs)
- WeAreSno (Worldwide Ski/ Snowboard Instructor Internships)
- EASkiandSnowboard (Worldwide Ski/Snowboard Instructor Internships)
What qualifications do you need to work as a ski instructor in Canada?
Before you can start working as a ski instructor, there are a few things you need to know.
First and foremost, you need to be an experienced skier.
While beginners will be able to take lessons from you, you need to be able to ski at an advanced level in order to work as an instructor.
Secondly, you will need to obtain a Ski Instructor Certification from a reputable organization such as the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance (CSIA). This process involves completing an online exam as well as on-snow training.
Many resorts run their own certification programs, so it is worth checking with them directly.
You will also need to be proficient in English, as most instruction is conducted in this language.
It’s always helpful to have some previous teaching experience.
If you have all of these qualifications, then you’re well on your way to landing a job in Canada.
What is the pay like for ski jobs in Canada?
Generally speaking, ski jobs in Canada pay pretty well. Most positions will start around $15 per hour, and those with more responsibility or experience can expect to earn closer to $20 per hour.
As for hours, most positions involve working around 8 hours per day, although this can vary depending on the role. For example, instructors may work longer hours during peak times.
Most employees can expect to work around 30-40 hours per week. However, there are often opportunities for overtime, especially during busy periods like weekends and holidays.
Overall, working a ski season in Canada is a great way to enjoy the winter and earn some extra cash.
What does a typical working day at a ski resort look like?
A workday at a ski resort can vary greatly depending on the resort and your position.
However, there are some commonalities between most jobs at a ski resort. For example, many positions will require you to be up early in the morning to prepare for the day ahead.
This may involve tasks such as checking the snow conditions, grooming the slopes, or setting up the lifts.
As the resort opens, you will likely be responsible for greeting guests and helping them with rental equipment or lift tickets.
And, of course, no workday at a ski resort would be complete without spending some time on the slopes!
Working at a ski resort is sure to be a fun and memorable experience.
What are the benefits of working a ski season in Canada?
In addition to some of the best skiing in the world, working a ski season in Canada also offers many other benefits.
For example, you might receive discounts on gear and seasonal ski passes.
You’ll also get the opportunity to work with people from all over the world.
Working a ski season in Canada can help to improve your resume and give you an edge when applying for other ski jobs in the future.
Is it Difficult to Find Ski Resort Jobs With Accommodation in Canada?
For anyone looking to work a ski season in Canada, one of the first things you’ll need to sort out is accommodation.
Many ski resorts offer staff housing.
The cost of staff accommodation will vary, but you can expect to pay between $100 to $200 per week on average for a basic room in a shared apartment. This sum would be deducted from your salary.
The staff housing is usually a lot cheaper than finding your own accommodation.
Finding accommodation on your own during the ski season can be difficult, as there are often limited options available.
During the peak ski season, accommodations can be in high demand and prices can be steep, so it’s important to start your search early.
The average cost of accommodation during the ski season in Canada varies depending on the location and type of accommodations, but prices typically range from $800 to $1,600 per month.
With a bit of planning and research, it is possible to find affordable accommodations that will allow you to enjoy all that the Canadian mountains have to offer.
Useful resources to find accommodation:
- Kijiji – Rent Section (Multiple locations)
- Craigslist (Multiple locations)
- PadMapper(Multiple locations)
- Castanet (Big White)
You can also check the rental section on FB Marketplace and local FB groups such as:
- Bow Valley Home Finder (Banff)
- Whistler Housing Rentals for Locals
- Revy Rentals (Revelstoke).
How to apply for a working visa?
If you’re not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, then you will need to obtain a work permit in order to work in Canada.
There are two main types of visas that allow you to work in Canada:
–> The International Experience Canada (IEC) work permit
The IEC work permit is for young people between the ages of 18 and 35 who want to come to Canada and work for a period of up to one year.
To apply, you must first find out if you’re eligible to apply, as an IEC visa is only available for residents from selected countries. Next, you can create an online profile and then be selected in a random draw. If you are successful, you will be issued an IEC work permit.
–> The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) visa
The TFWP visa is for people who have been offered a job by a Canadian employer.
You will need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada in order to apply for this visa.
Tips for making the most of your ski season working in Canada
Every winter, thousands of people head to the mountains to work a ski season in Canada. If you’re lucky enough to land a job in one of the country’s many world-class resorts, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your ski season working in Canada:
–> Be prepared for the cold
Temperatures in winter months can be very low, so make sure you have the right gear to keep you warm. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of good quality second-hand gear shops in Canada. Keep an eye on FB Marketplace as well. You can sometimes pick up some good deals there.
–> Don’t forget health insurance
Even if you’re healthy and fit, accidents can happen on the slopes. Make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency. Besides that, health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Canada is one of the main requirements to enter the country on a working holiday visa. A good health insurance policy will give you peace of mind and help you enjoy your work and holiday experience to the fullest.
Health insurance for Australians and Kiwis:
Cover-More – travel insurance that provides coverage for up to 12 months. If you need 2-year coverage for Canadian working holiday visa (IEC), you can apply for two one-year travel insurance policies.
You can add winter sports coverage to your policy for an additional fee.
Health insurance Europeans:
True Traveller – a great travel insurance policy that provides coverage for up to 2 years if you travel under IEC Canada working holiday visa. The policy also allows free home visits.
This is the insurance policy that I used during my first two years in Canada. I had a tooth problem, and they covered my claim without any issue.
Health insurance for all other nationalities:
World Nomads – a travel insurance policy available for residents of over 140 countries.
Best Quote – travel insurance that specializes in visitors to Canada. For IEC travelers, they offer a cover for up to 2 years.
–> Take advantage of your time off
When you’re not working, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, from exploring the nearby town to hitting the slopes for fun. Just remember to pace yourself, so you’re rested and ready for your next shift.
–> Join IEC FB groups
The whole visa process can be a bit daunting and long, so it helps to share advice with people in similar shoes. It can also be a great place to network with other people. Here are FB groups that you can join which specialize in IEC working holiday program:
By following these tips, you’ll be on the right track to land your dream ski resort job in Canada.
