If you are wandering how you can work a ski season in Canada, we have you covered!

Skiing and snowboarding are popular winter activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In Canada, these sports are a major tourist attraction that brings in millions of dollars each year. There are many ski resorts located in different parts of the country, and each resort employs hundreds of people during the winter season.

If you are hired by a ski resort, you can expect to work long hours, weekends, and holidays. The pay is usually minimum wage or slightly higher, but employees typically receive cheap lodging, meals, and skiing privileges.

If you are interested in working at a ski resort in Canada, there are several things you need to know. The following article will provide you with information on the different types of jobs available in the ski industry, common work visas and how to secure a job. It will also provide some tips on what to expect during the hiring process.

Table of contents

What jobs are available in the ski industry

There are many different types of ski resort jobs available in the ski industry.

Ski and snowboard instructors

If you want to be a ski or snowboard instructor you are in high demand in the ski industry. They are responsible for teaching beginners how to ski or snowboard and must be able to demonstrate the skills they are teaching. Ski and snowboard instructors must also be able to work with people of all ages and be patient and friendly.

Lift operators

Lift operators are responsible for operating the ski lifts. They must be able to operate machinery and be familiar with the safety procedures.

Retail workers

Retail workers are responsible for selling ski equipment, clothing, and other accessories. They must be able to work with the public and have knowledge of the products they are selling.

Cashiers

Cashiers are responsible for handling the money transactions. They must be able to work with the public and have knowledge of the products they are selling.

Housekeeping

Housekeeping staff are responsible for cleaning the resort buildings and facilities. They must be able to work independently and have attention to detail.

Engineers

Engineers are responsible for maintaining the ski lifts, ensuring that they are in safe working order. They also work on repairing and upgrading the equipment as needed.

Drivers

Drivers are responsible for driving guests and employees to and from the ski resort. They must be familiar with the area and have a valid driver's license.

Cook and chefs

Cooks and chefs are responsible for preparing food in the cafeteria. They must be able to work quickly and under pressure.

Slope groomers

Slope groomers are responsible for grooming the slopes and preparing them for skiing and snowboarding. They must be able to operate machinery and be familiar with the safety procedures.

ski slope groomer on the hill

How to secure a job in the ski industry

If you are interested in ski season work, you will need to do some research to find out which resorts are hiring. You can find this information online, by attending ski resort job fairs or by contacting the resorts directly.

Once you have found a few resorts that are hiring, you will need to submit your resume and cover letter. Make sure to highlight your experience in the ski industry, whether it’s as a skier or a worker. You may also want to include some references from previous employers, along with a resume and a cover letter.

The hiring process can be competitive, so you may want to attend job fairs and meet with potential employers in person. Many resorts also offer internships, which can be a great way to gain experience and make connections in the industry.

What to expect during the hiring process

When applying for a job in the ski industry, you can expect to go through a competitive hiring process. Resumes and cover letters will be reviewed and only the best candidates will be called for an interview.

Interviews will typically be conducted, and you may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of skiing or snowboarding. You may also be asked to perform a task, such as cooking a meal or cleaning a room depending on what job you are applying for.

If you are successful, you will be offered a position and will need to provide documentation such as a work visa and criminal record check.

Common work visas

If you are interested in working at a ski resort in Canada, you will need to obtain a work visa. Work visas are required for foreigners who want to work in Canada. Here are some common temporary visa options:

International Experience Canada (IEC)

Canada offers its IEC program to residents from some partner countries around the world. There are three different visa categories that are; Canadian working holiday visa, Young Profesionals and International Co-op (Internship).

You can apply under one of these categories if you fulfil the necessary eligibility requirements. Many foreign workers apply for this visa and then apply for ski season jobs.

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Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a procedure that employers in Canada must go through to hire foreign workers specifically for a position that a Canadian citizen cannot fill. The LMIA is used to analyze how a foreign worker would impact Canada's labour market.

To obtain one of these visas you will need to get in contact with a ski resort.

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man in red jacket jumping in the air on skis

Popular Canadian ski resorts

Canada has some world-class ski resorts, here are a few popular ones:

Banff Sunshine Village

Banff Sunshine Village is located in the province of Alberta and is one of the most popular ski resorts in Canada. It features nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and offers a wide range of winter activities.

Whistler Blackcomb

Located in the province of British Columbia, Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America. It offers over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders from around the world.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is a ski resort located in the province of Alberta. It is one of the most popular ski resorts in Canada and offers a wide range of winter activities.

Sun Peaks Resort

Sun Peaks Resort is located in the province of British Columbia and is a popular ski resort for skiers and snowboarders. It features nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain.

Fernie Alpine Resort

Fernie Alpine Resort is located in the province of British Columbia and is a popular ski resort among skiers and snowboarders. It offers nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it a great destination for winter enthusiasts.

Kicking Horse

Kicking Horse is a ski resort located in the province of British Columbia and is a popular ski resort among skiers and snowboarders. It offers nearly 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in Canada.

Conclusion

Working a ski season in Canada can be an amazing experience. If you are interested in securing a ski season job at a Canadian ski resort, you will need to obtain the appropriate work visa and go through the hiring process. The resorts we have listed are just a few of the many popular destinations for skiers and snowboarders in Canada, most of which offer ski resort accommodation.

We hope this article on how to work a ski season in Canada has provided you with all the information you need to get started on your journey to working at a Canadian ski resort. If you need some assistance with your visa, contact us!