A ski season job could be the perfect way to combine work and adventure. Whether you want to gain experience in hospitality or simply enjoy life on the slopes, here’s everything you need to know about securing a ski season job.

What Kind of Jobs Are Available in a Ski Season?

There are many roles available for a ski season, depending on your skills, experience, and preferences. Some of the most popular ski season jobs include:

● Lift operator: Ensuring the ski lifts run smoothly and safely. This role often includes free ski passes.

● Ski instructor: If you’re qualified, teaching lessons is a rewarding and well-paid role.

● Chalet host: Cooking and cleaning for guests in ski chalets. A great choice if you enjoy hospitality and have basic culinary skills.

● Bar staff: Working in resort bars can be sociable and lively, perfect if you love nightlife.

● Kitchen staff: Roles range from dishwasher to chef, depending on your experience.

● Hotel or reception staff: Handling check-ins, guest enquiries, and reservations.

● Retail assistant: Working in ski hire shops or mountain gear stores.

● Driver: Transporting guests between the airport, resort, and chalets (a driving licence and confidence driving in snowy conditions required).

Each role offers a different experience, so think about what suits you best—do you want to maximise time on the slopes, or prioritise earning potential?

When Can You Apply for a Ski Season Job?

One of the most important factors in securing a ski season job is timing. Recruitment for ski season roles usually starts very early—often six to nine months before the season begins.

Here’s a rough timeline to guide you:

✅ June–August: Many large tour operators and chalet companies open applications for the upcoming winter season. This is the best time to apply if you’re aiming for well-known resorts or popular roles.

✅ September–October: Some smaller companies, independent hotels, and bars begin hiring later in the year. You’ll also find opportunities on job boards and recruitment agencies.

✅ November–December: Last-minute vacancies arise as workers drop out or extra staff are needed. These are ideal if you’re flexible or looking for a spontaneous adventure.

Applying early increases your chances of getting your preferred role and location. If you wait until autumn, some positions may already be filled.

Do You Need a Degree for a Ski Season Job?

In most cases, you don’t need a degree to work a ski season. Employers are more interested in your attitude, practical skills, and willingness to work hard.

Exceptions include roles like ski instructors, where formal qualifications such as BASI or ESF certification are required. However, for positions like chalet host, lift operator, bar staff, or receptionist, experience in hospitality or customer service is usually enough.

If you’re applying for a customer-facing role, it’s a good idea to highlight languages you speak, any catering skills, and your ability to work in a team.

How to Apply for a Ski Season Job

Here’s how to maximise your chances of landing that dream role on the slopes:

1. Research companies and resorts early: Start looking in summer for winter roles. Check company websites, ski job boards, and recruitment agencies.

2. Create a strong CV: Use a clear and professional format that showcases your relevant skills and experience. If you’re unsure where to start, try using a simple CV template to make your application polished and easy to read.

3. Highlight transferable skills: Even if you haven’t worked a ski season before, emphasise skills such as customer service, cleaning, cooking, teamwork, or speaking multiple languages.

4. Be flexible with location and role: Being open to different resorts or roles increases your chances of finding work.

5. Apply widely: Send applications to multiple companies to improve your chances—many hire large numbers of seasonal workers.

6. Attend recruitment events: Some companies hold virtual or in-person recruitment days where you can interview directly with hiring managers.

How to Find a Ski Season Job

Not sure where to look? Here are some of the best ways to find ski season jobs:

● Company websites: Many large tour operators, chalet companies, and hotels advertise directly on their own sites.

● Ski job boards: Websites like Season Workers, Natives, Cool Ski Jobs, and Ski Jobs post hundreds of seasonal roles across Europe, Canada, and beyond.

● Recruitment agencies: Some agencies specialise in hiring for ski resorts and may place you with multiple employers.

● Social media groups: Facebook groups and online forums dedicated to ski season workers often share informal job postings and tips.

● Arriving early in the resort: If you’re adventurous, turning up a few weeks before the season starts can lead to finding last-minute work in bars, restaurants, or hotels.

Applying through multiple channels increases your chances—don’t rely on just one method!

Income for a Ski Season Job

Wondering what you’ll earn during a ski season? Salaries vary depending on the role, resort, and country, but here’s a rough idea:

● Chalet host: £500–£800 per month, plus tips and accommodation.

● Lift operator: Similar wages, often with ski passes included.

● Bar staff and waiting staff: £700–£1,200 per month, plus tips.

● Qualified ski instructor: £15–£30 per hour, depending on certification and resort.

Most ski season jobs include accommodation, meals, and a lift pass, which reduces your living costs significantly. Keep in mind, while you may not earn a high salary, the perks and lifestyle are a big part of the experience.

Pros and Cons of Working a Ski Season

Before committing, it’s worth weighing up the benefits and challenges:

Pros:

✅ Free or discounted ski pass.

✅ Accommodation and meals included in many roles.

✅ Meeting new friends from around the world.

✅ Gaining hospitality and teamwork experience.

Cons:

⚠️ Long hours, split shifts, and physical work.

⚠️ Sharing accommodation with little privacy.

⚠️ Lower pay compared to similar roles outside resorts.

If you’re adaptable, hardworking, and excited for an adventure, the rewards usually outweigh the challenges!

Final Tips

● Apply early: Don’t wait until autumn—many companies hire over the summer.

● Be realistic: A ski season isn’t just skiing and partying—it’s hard work too.

● Pack smart: Bring durable, warm clothing and essentials you won’t easily find in a resort.

● Stay positive: Flexibility and a can-do attitude will help you thrive in any role.

Conclusion

A ski season job is a fantastic way to combine work and adventure, whether you’re looking to boost your CV, improve hospitality skills, or simply enjoy a few months on the slopes. With preparation, flexibility, and enthusiasm, you can secure a role that fits your goals—whether as a chalet host, lift operator, hotel staff, or kitchen worker. Start your search early, apply widely, and get ready for an unforgettable winter experience