How to Work a Ski Season in Canada – The Ultimate Guide

If you’ve ever wanted to spend your winter working in a place where snow is currency and ski passes come with the job, Canada’s ski resorts might be exactly what you’re looking for. Every year, thousands of international travellers head to the mountains not just to visit but to work, earn, and live the kind of lifestyle that blends hustle with adventure.

Landing a job at a Canadian ski resort isn’t just about making money. It’s about waking up in a town where the slopes are your backyard, your coworkers double as your housemates, and your weekends are spent riding powder or grabbing drinks at the local lodge. From lift operations to barista gigs, resort towns are powered by seasonal staff — and they’re actively hiring.

It’s a lifestyle that trades the 9-to-5 grind for early morning chairlifts and après-ski evenings. You’ll meet people from all over the world, share stories over cheap pints, and learn how to balance work with play in a way that feels refreshingly human. Whether you're flipping burgers at the base lodge or scanning lift tickets in a blizzard, every role comes with its own perks - and the biggest one is being part of a community that thrives on snow, speed, and shared experience.

Of course, it’s not all powder days and hot tubs. The work can be physical, the pay modest, and the housing tight. But for those who come prepared - with the right visa, a solid plan, and a sense of adventure - the rewards go far beyond the pay. You’ll gain independence, build friendships, and collect the kind of memories that only happen when you say yes to a season in the mountains.

The good news? If you’re organised, proactive, and ready to embrace the cold, getting hired is absolutely within reach. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about how to find the right job, what visa you’ll need, which areas are best to live in, and how Global Work & Travel can make your Canadian adventure a breeze. 

The Best Visa Options for Working in a Ski Resort in Canada 

First things first, you’re going to need a visa to be able to work while you’re overseas in Canada. One of the best options for young people who want to work at a ski resort while they’re on their Canadian adventure is the International Experience Canada (IEC) Visa. This visa is geared towards international youth aged 18-35 and is valid for up to 2 years of work and travel. This category is perfect for people who: 

• Want to work for more than one employer 
• Want to work in more than one location (for those who want to experience every slope Canada has to offer) 
• You intend to work for someone else, and you won’t be self-employed 
• You’re a student registered at a university 

Visit our Canadian Working Holiday Visa – The Complete Guide for a thorough overview of eligibility, process, hot tips and everything you need to know about the visa application before you apply. 

How to Get a Job at a Canadian Ski Resort

Landing a job at a Canadian ski resort is one of the most exciting ways to spend your working holiday, and at Global Work & Travel, we’ve made it easier than ever. With over 16 years of experience helping travellers live, work, and explore abroad, we know exactly what it takes to turn your dream into a reality. Whether you’re chasing fresh powder, lodge-side vibes, or mountain views that make your jaw drop, we’ve got the tools, tips, and insider knowledge to help you get there.

SuperLite: Your Job Finder Built for Adventure

We created SuperLite, the world’s first job discovery tool designed exclusively for working holiday travellers. It’s not just another job board. SuperLite matches you with roles based on the kind of lifestyle, environment, and experience you’re looking for. Whether you want to work in the heart of a ski village or somewhere more off-grid, SuperLite helps you find work that fits the trip you came for.

And if you’re going solo, don’t worry — we’ve built a social network right into the app. Connect with other Global Travellers before you even leave home, plan meetups, and start building your crew. You’ll also get access to visa info, travel insurance, resumé-building tools, and expert-curated guides to help you hit the ground running.

Working Holiday in Canada Packages 

If you’re serious about landing a ski resort job in Canada, our Working Holiday in Canada (Plus) packages are built to take you from dreaming to doing, with everything sorted before you even step off the plane. You’ll receive a guaranteed job match pre-arrival, so you can skip the stress of job hunting in a foreign country. Whether it’s a ski resort, lakeside lodge, or mountain town café, we’ve got the largest network of partner companies offering perks like staff accommodation, discounted ski passes, free lessons, and more. 

But this isn’t just about landing a job, it’s about arriving prepared, confident, and connected. From visa guidance and airport transfers to hostel stays, sightseeing tours, and even a side-trip to Las Vegas, we’ve packed the essentials into one hassle-free experience. You’ll be supported by a dedicated Trip Coordinator, have access to Global Academy for skill-building, and stay connected through our exclusive social network in the SuperLite app. It’s all designed to help you hit the ground running, meet fellow travellers, and make the most of every moment. With Global Work & Travel, you’re not just working abroad, you’re living the story you’ll be telling for years to come.

You've Only Got One Shot – Let’s Make it Count

This isn’t just a job, it’s the experience of a lifetime. And when it comes to ski resort hiring, first impressions matter. Employers are looking for enthusiastic, reliable team players who are ready to embrace the seasonal lifestyle. That means showing up prepared, flexible, and ready to work hard (and play harder).

Here’s how to stand out:

• Apply early: most resorts start hiring by September
• Tailor your resumé: use our AI-powered builder to highlight relevant experience
• Be flexible: the more open you are to different roles and locations, the more opportunities you’ll unlock
• Show commitment: resorts love candidates who can stay for the full season

Top Tips and Tricks to Land the Job

We’ve helped thousands of travellers land ski resort jobs. Here’s what really makes a difference:

• Hospitality & customer service experience is gold. Even if it’s from a café back home, it shows you know how to work with people.
• Team player energy is essential. Ski resorts are tight-knit communities. Being friendly, adaptable, and positive goes a long way.
• Use SuperLite to stay ahead, from visa timelines to travel insurance, we’ve packed everything into one easy-to-use app.
• Get social before you go: plan meetups, make friends, and tap into our dedicated community support through the app’s Social feature.
• Brush up on skills: our video courses can help you learn the basics of a new language or skill to boost your confidence.

Types of Jobs at Canadian Ski Resorts

Lift Operations: The backbone of any ski resort, lifties keep the chairlifts running smoothly and safely. You’ll spend your days outside helping guests load and unload, checking passes, and keeping the vibe upbeat. It’s a physical job, but the trade-off is plenty of fresh air, mountain views, and usually a free lift pass for your days off.

Ski & Snowboard Instructors: If you love the slopes and have the skills to match, teaching is one of the most rewarding jobs on offer. Instructors get flexible schedules, lots of riding time, and the chance to share their passion with others. Qualifications may be required, but many resorts offer training programs for the right candidates.

Food & Beverage: (Cafés, Bars, Restaurants): From brewing early-morning coffees to serving après-ski pints, food and beverage roles put you right in the centre of the resort’s social life. These positions can be fast-paced, but tips often boost your earnings, and you’ll quickly become part of a tight-knit crew.

Retail & Rentals: Working in retail or rentals means helping guests get the right gear for the conditions. You’ll fit boots, set up boards, and share your knowledge to make sure everyone hits the slopes ready to go. Staff discounts on equipment are a big perk here.

Guest Services & Ticketing: The front line for visitors, guest services and ticketing staff handle bookings, passes, and general enquiries. It’s an ideal role for organised, outgoing people who enjoy problem-solving and providing great customer experiences. Bonus: it’s indoors and usually offers consistent hours.

Housekeeping & Maintenance: These behind-the-scenes roles keep the resort running smoothly. From making beds to fixing equipment, the work can be varied and steady, often with reliable hours and access to staff housing. It’s less glamorous, but just as vital to the overall guest experience.

Top Tips: Perks vary by role. Outdoor jobs often come with free lift passes, while hospitality and service roles can mean more cash flow thanks to tips.

Best Places to Live and Work – Ski Resort Edition

Not all ski towns are built the same. Some are high-energy hubs with packed bars and endless terrain, while others offer quiet mornings, deep snow, and a slower pace. Choosing where to base yourself isn’t just about the job; it’s about the kind of season you want to have. Do you want big mountain buzz and nightlife? Or a cozy village where everyone knows your name?

Here’s a breakdown of a few standout spots to help you figure out your perfect match:

Big White, British Columbia

Big White, British Columbia

Known for its deep snow and laid-back vibe, Big White is especially popular with international workers, Australians in particular. It’s got a strong community feel, great terrain for intermediate skiers, and a solid terrain park. The resort is well set up for seasonal staff, with plenty of roles and a welcoming atmosphere that makes settling in easy.

Banff (Sunshine Village & Lake Louise), Alberta

Banff gives you access to not one, but three ski resorts, Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Norquay, all within a short drive. The town itself is lively, scenic, and full of seasonal workers. Sunshine Village is known for its epic powder and old-school charm, while Lake Louise offers stunning views and a huge variety of terrain. It’s a great mix of work, adventure, and social life.

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Revelstoke is for the serious skiers and snowboarders. It boasts the highest vertical drop in North America and is famous for its deep powder and backcountry access. The town is smaller and more rugged than Whistler or Banff, but that’s part of the appeal; it’s tight-knit, authentic, and all about the riding. If you’re chasing steep lines and a quieter lifestyle, Revelstoke is your spot. 

Final Thoughts

Working a ski season in Canada is more than just a job; it’s a gateway to a lifestyle that most people only ever dream about. It’s about mornings that start with sunrise over snow-capped peaks, friendships forged over shared adventures, and the satisfaction of earning your way in one of the most beautiful places on earth. While it comes with its own set of challenges, from tight budgets to long shifts, the rewards are unmatched. You’ll gain life experience, cultural understanding, and the kind of memories that stick with you long after the snow melts. Whether you’re chasing powder, personal growth, or a fresh start, a Canadian ski season offers all three in spades.