Need to know / Canada
From payslips to slopes, we cover everything you need for a working holiday in Whistler.
Looking for jobs in Whistler Blackcomb? Whether you're planning a working holiday in Canada or searching for your first ski season job, here's everything you need to know about available roles, staff housing, employee benefits, pay, visas and how to apply.
Famed for its gnarly ski runs, jaw-dropping nature and pumping après ski parties - Whistler Blackcomb is an epic choice for those wanting to make the move overseas on a working holiday in Canada.
While it really IS all fun and games on a working holiday – you’ve still got to earn some $$$ to fuel the good times. As Canada's biggest ski resort, there are plenty of jobs in hospitality, retail and operations, many with the perks of lift access and staff accommodation if booked through JENZA. There's a strong social scene with an international crowd and the 8,000 acres of legendary powder mean there's never a dull moment in Whistler. Plus, Vancouver is only 1.5 hours by car.
Now that’s covered, on to the type of work you can do. While there are some jobs on the mountain, the roles listed below predominately require no formal experience (or ski experience) so they’re up for grabs to anyone that aces their interview.
Be the first point of call for hungry guests as a front of house host at one of the many restaurants and eateries. These include Alpine locations too - so skiing to and from work really is an option in Whistler? Amazing.
If you’re up for mastering flat white foam and whipping up a latte, a job as a barista could be a good move. Enjoy a friendly café atmosphere, make BFFs with the team and clock off mid arvo for a ski on the slopes.
From experienced cooks to food preppers, be a part of the creation process and help cook up tasty meals for the Whistler community and visitors to enjoy. Prefer those
If chatting to guests and working as part of a team is your jam, why not join the wait staff at one of the resort’s cafes, restaurants or bars. With varying work schedules – you can fit in some morning or evening ski time around the job.
If you’re not so keen on the customer facing roles and organisation is your happy place, go for a job that focuses on keeping products and workstations clean and organised or try your hand at being a Merchandiser.
You actually couldn't get closer to the slopes if you tried. Finish you shift, gear up, and head up the mountain. It's also a great way to meet people and schedule in some apres-ski festivities.
For most jobs, no, although it can't hurt to have some experience when applying for roles. There are a few specialist roles where you will need to show your experience. For example, ski instructors and chefs. Probably useful to know how to dismount from a lift and poach an egg before jumping in the deep end.
Wages for ski season jobs vary depending on the employer. Minimum wage at time of writing is around $18.15/hour and you can expect to earn more than that through tips if working in hospitality. On top of your wages, many employers include staff housing, resort discounts and free lift passes. So, the cost of living in Whistler is significantly lower than if you had to fork out for rent.
Moving abroad and scoring a job in a new country might feel a little scary. So, if you’re keen to secure a job before you go or want a full list of pre-vetted employers when you get there and for your entire visa – our Work Canada progams give you access to our Job Hub where you can search and apply for roles.
Alongside full access to the Job Hub, we guide you through the IEC working visa application, help sort your bank account and social insurance number, and include a CV and job workshop when you touch down in Canada. You'll also have access to our hiring events where you can meet potential employers in person.
Yep the rumours are true, all the Whistler Blackcomb roles on the Job Hub come with the following perks:
Our Work Canada packages will set you up with everything you need to live and work in Whistler. We’ll guide you through your IEC working holiday visa application, sort arrival accommodation, help set up your bank account and SIN, and we'll be on hand with unlimited job placement services for the duration of your visa – helping you find your feet, land a job and spend more time shredding Whistler's legendary slopes.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Georgie Birch
Staff | Melbourne
Originally from Oxford, our favourite UK import got the Australia bug and never left. Her happy place is the ocean and chasing waterfalls on hikes. Can also be found in Melbourne sipping on (extra) spicy margs with mates.
"You get to work with like-minded people and make lifelong pals"
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