Ski instructor course in Canada with Level 1 & 2

Get both of your certifications as a ski instructor during your season in Canada

Level 1 & 2 Ski Instructor Course in Canada

Get ready for an unforgettable season with our Level 1 & 2 Ski Instructor Course in Canada. With expert training and real teaching experience, you’ll progress from passionate skier to certified ski instructor while spending a full winter in one of Canada’s top resorts, like Revelstoke, Sun Peaks or Kimberley.

Our course is designed to prepare you for both Level 1 and Level 2 certifications, starting with intensive coaching from experienced trainers. Once you’ve passed Level 1, you’ll gain hands-on experience at a ski school while training towards Level 2, helping you develop advanced skills and boost your career opportunities as a ski instructor.

With Canada’s world-class terrain, deep powder, and welcoming mountain culture, this course is the perfect way to train, work, and experience a full ski season while earning internationally recognized qualifications.

The Training for your Level 1 & 2 ski instructor certification

Take your skiing to the next level with our Level 1 & 2 Ski Instructor Course in Canada. This immersive training program is designed to refine your technique and prepare you for your internationally recognized ski instructor certifications. Whether you’re already a strong skier or looking to improve, our experienced trainers will support you in passing your Level 1 and 2 exams, setting you up for a successful season on the slopes.

After passing your Level 1 exam,  you will start working as a paid ski instructor at a top Canadian resort, while training and preparing for your Level 2 certification. Since 2012, Snowminds has maintained a 100% job placement rate for instructors upon successful course completion, ensuring you gain hands-on experience while living the dream in the mountains. After working and gaining experience at a Canadian ski school, you will then take your Level 2 exam. After passing this, you will go back to work at a local ski school in Canada, now as a Level 1 and 2 certified ski instructor!

If you’re eager to push your skills even further, we offer a backcountry course or for those seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush, our heli-skiing camp in Revelstoke offers an unforgettable experience. No matter your path, our dedicated team is here to guide you through your ski instructor journey in Canada.

Life as a Ski Instructor in Canada

As a Snowminds ski instructor, you’ll work at one of our trusted partner ski schools, teaching, training, and gaining real-world experience throughout the season. The Canadian ski culture is welcoming, and you’ll be part of a diverse international team, building friendships that last a lifetime. Known for their laid-back and friendly nature, your Canadian colleagues will ensure you feel right at home on and off the slopes.

Read more
Recommendation: Check out our 5 Star reviews on Google, Trustpilot and Facebook and learn more about Snowminds from our ski and snowboard instructors!

Pictures from the destination

WHAT DO YOU GET FROM SNOWMINDS?

When you travel with Snowminds we help you every step of the way and help take care of all the practicalities. That way you can focus on packing your bags and good vibes and preparing yourself for your winter adventure.

Our ski instructor courses and internships in Canada vary in departure time, length, content and price depending on which destination they take place at. After you apply we will work with you to match you to the perfect fitting course, ski school and resort. 

When reserving your place for the next winter, you can see the different course details for the dates you wish to travel, where you also have the opportunity to indicate which course you are most interested in applying for. 

 

With our Level 1 and 2 ski instructor courses in Canada you can look forward to: 

  • A winter season in Canada as a ski instructor
  • Job placement at a local ski school in Canada*
  • Pre-training delivered by professional ski instructors
  • The Canadian level 1 ski instructor certification (including exam, course materials, and certificates)
  • 7-10 days of level 2 training in preparation for the CSIA or PSIC level 2 certification (training to fit in around your work schedule at ski school) 
  • The Canadian level 2 ski certification (including all CSIA or PSIC modules, exams, course materials, and certificates)
  • Round-trip flights to and from Canada (from a major international airport)**
  • On-ground transportation to your destination from the airport
  • Organized season accommodation with the first 3 weeks included ***
  • Breakfast and dinner 5 days per week for a total of 15 days
  • Season lift pass (as long as employed)
  • Snowminds program manager and social activities
  • Kick-off Event prior to the season in Denmark, or online
  • Invitation to Snowminds Reunion Party after your season
  • A dedicated team to support you before, during, and after the winter season
  • Help with the visa application (if needed) and other practical formalities before departure
  • Preparation material and pre-travel fitness program, and pro-deals at Snowminds Store
  • Confidence in a Danish travel company that is a member of the Danish Travel Guarantee Fund
  • Travel protection with Snowminds Money Back Guarantee
  • A strong community with fellow Snowminders
  • Opportunity to join our Heli Skiing Camp in Revelstoke.
  • Opportunity to finish the experience on our Season Finish Trip to Hawaii

 

Depending on your destination, the following could also be included:

  • Avalanche Skill Training (AST) course 
  • Freeride / All mountain improvement training days
  • Snow Park / Freestyle training days 
  • Canadian Snow Park instructor certification ((including all CSIA or PSIC exams, course materials, and certificates)
  • In-resort French language training
  • Snowboard training and opportunity to take a CASI snowboard instructor level 1 course
  • Training and work opportunities in other departments in the resort, e.g lift operations or rentals 

 

What is not included?

  • Visa fees, cancellation, and travel insurance
  • Security deposit and rent for seasonal accommodation after the first 3 weeks
  • Travel activity after the season ends (including, transport from your destination to the airport)
  • Equipment pocket money**** and anything else not mentioned above in the included section.

 

Please note: the details, inclusions, and prices vary from course to course and will be confirmed with you when your application is matched to a ski school. Below you can see the pricing and details for ski instructor internships in resorts in Canada.

* The job placement is contingent on successfully passing the recruitment process at the ski school and the level 1 exam.

**Return flights are included from major international airports including London, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, or Copenhagen. We will happily arrange flights from other areas, such as Edinburgh or Sydney, upon request and likely extra charges. In all cases, please be aware that there may be additional costs depending on the departure airport, flight availabilities, and price increases! We will notify you before final flight bookings are made in such cases. You are also welcome to book your own flights, in which case we provide a 700 euro discount on your trip. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us.

*** You will live with other instructors in shared accommodations of varying sizes and quality. Some units have bunk, twin, or sofabeds, and others have double beds, in which case the bed is shared with another participant. Please be aware that the accommodation can change from season to season. Monthly rent is not included during the season and is usually to be paid upfront in full latest 30 days before departure.

****Please note that the Canadian government requires you to have at least 2500 CAD in your account upon entry to Canada. This amount must be available after your rent, equipment, course, etc. has been paid. 

Course Details for our Level 1 & 2 Ski instructor courses in Canada

Find out more details about the destinations in which we offer Level 1 and 2 ski instructor courses in Canada.  If you prefer, you can also see our Level 1 ski instructor courses in Canada  or Level 1 snowboard instructor courses in Canada here.

 

Below you can see the pricing and details for ski instructor internships in resorts in Canada.

Please note: 3 weeks accommodation, 3 week meal plan (which includes 15 dinners + 15 breakfasts), job placement as a ski instructor, return flights and local transport to destination is included as standard on internships unless otherwise stated.

Big White

Become a ski instructor in Big White Mountain Resort

With 105 km of ski terrain, including challenging red and black slopes and around 8 metres annual snowfall, Big White is a top destination in British Columbia. Big White also hosts extensive night skiing, off-piste adventures and the TELUS park, and extensive cross country trails, making it the ideal place for you to try new things and have a season full of adventure. The local town also offers a variety of bars, cafés and restaurants, making you truly feel at home.

Travel dates: End of November to April

Level 1 + 2 Training Program (From €10.590)
–  11 training days for Level 1
– CSIA Level 1 certification
– 7 training days for Level 2
– CSIA Level 2 certification

 

 

Kimberley

Become a ski instructor in Kimberley Mountain Resort

Located in the Purcell Range of the Canadian Rockies, with over 729 hectares of terrain, 80 pistes and 4 meters of annual snowfall, the resort is a local favourite. Kimberley has many black diamond slopes and is loved especially for its advanced terrain, therefore you can expect for your skiing to truly reach new heights.

 

Travel dates: Beginning of December to April.
Level 1 + 2 Training Program: (From €9295)
6 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA level 1 Certification
– 6 training days in preparation for level 2 instructor certification
– CSIA level 2 Certification

Marmot Basin

Become a ski instructor in Marmot Basin

You can find Marmot Basin, the highest ski resort in the Canadian Rockies, in the state of Alberta in the midst of Jasper National Park. Beyond an extensive season up until May, Marmot Basin and its surroundings offer incredible nature and wildlife. The ski school offers a real family-like atmosphere, and you will be closely involved in the Canadian culture.

 

Travel dates: End of October to April/May
Level 1 + 2 Training Program:  (From €10.590)
– 12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA level 1 Certification
– Training in a secondary role + job placement in another department e.g lift operations + rentals
– 10 training days in preparation for level 2 instructor certification
– CSIA Level 2 Certification
– Training in a secondary role + job placement in ski school is combined with a role in another department e.g lift operations + rentals*

 

Mount Washington

Become a ski instructor in Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Mount Washington is a local gem. It gives you the chance to immerse yourself in Canadian culture, with a ski school that prides itself on building a strong community, where you will be treated as a part of the Mount Washington family. Beyond the high quality skiing and terrain, Mount Washington is also known for its beautiful nature.

Travel dates: Beginning of December to April 
Level 1 + 2 Training Program: (From €9295)
6 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– PSIC level 1 Certification
– 6 training days in preparation for level 2 instructor certification
– PSIC level 2 Certification

Revelstoke

Become a ski instructor in Revelstoke Mountain Resort

Revelstoke, BC, is a dream destination for skiers worldwide, offering legendary snowfall, diverse alpine terrain, and an authentic mountain-town atmosphere. Known for its world-class heli-skiing terrain, Revelstoke provides endless opportunities for deep powder adventures. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, the town’s cozy bars and restaurants offer the perfect place to unwind and soak in the laid-back mountain vibe.

Travel dates: End of November to April 
Level 1 + 2 Training program: (From €10295)
–  12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA Level 1 certification
– 10 training days in preparation for level 2 instructor certification
– CSIA Level 2 certification

Sun Peaks

Become a ski instructor in Sun Peaks Resort

Sun Peaks is Canada’s second largest ski area and is comprised of three distinct mountains. With 135 slopes and 6 meters of annual snowfall, Sun Peaks offers first-class conditions. The entire town is ski-in, ski-out and as a ski instructor in Sun Peaks you have unlimited opportunities and adventures.

Travel dates: End of November to April
Level 1 + 2 Training Program (From €10.590)
–  12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
–  CSIA Level 1 certification
– 7 training days in preparation for level 2 instructor certification

 

KEY DETAILS ABOUT THE COURSE

WHO CAN APPLY?

WHO CAN APPLY?

At Snowminds we pride ourselves in selecting the right people for our team of ski- and snowboard instructors. We are renowned amongst the ski schools for educating competent, energetic and top motivated ski- and snowboard instructors. You definitely do not need to be an expert to become a ski instructor in Canada, and we encourage everyone with this dream to apply. The most important thing for you is to be positive, outgoing, adventurous and ready to work hard to get the memory of a lifetime as a part of the Snowminds team. Sounds like you? Take the ski instructor course in Canada!

What we expect from you:

  • You have skied or snowboarded a minimum of 3-4 weeks
  • You are positive, outgoing and adventurous
  • You are serious, responsible and top motivated
  • You are good with kids, teens, and adults
  • You enjoy teaching and love being challenged  
  • You speak English at a conversational level
  • You are 18 years or above 
  • You are eligible for a Working Holiday Visa*

 

When you have sent your application, we will begin our recruitment process with you.  Our team of instructors will first give you a call to hear if you have any questions, and then invite you for an online interview.

During the interview, we will evaluate your candidacy while you have the opportunity to get more information about our courses and the experience as an instructor in Canada.

After the interview, we will call you and let you know whether or not we can offer you a spot on our team with a job placement for the winter season. 

We have a big interest in our courses and the spots fill up quickly. Therefore we have a “first come, first serve” principle with an application deadline each month. This means that the earlier you send in your application, the greater your chances are of joining the team and getting your dream destination.

Hit the apply now button below to get started, where you will find our prices and dates. 

 

*Eligibility for Working Holiday visa depends on different factors such as which passport you hold and your age. Ask us if you are unsure.

PAID JOB PLACEMENT

The Snowminds job placement and how it works

The job placement means that you have security in traveling to Canada with a job as an instructor already arranged in a local snow school. You will already know at which destination you will spend your season at, before departure. The job placement is naturally conditional on passing your ski or snowboard certification, which 99% of our students successfully pass. Even in the situation you do not pass, we still do everything we can to ensure you a job in the resort. That way you enjoy your season like everyone else and then retake your certification when ready. We are proud to say we have always been able to find a job for 100% of our instructors after graduation from our training course.

Accomodation

Accommodation

First 3 weeks of accommodation during the course is included at most destinations in Canada. Whichever resort you travel to, we arrange season accommodation housing for you. Many ski schools in Canada do not include accommodation as part of a work contract as they often work with a lot of local staff. Therefore, we work together with the ski schools to arrange good and fitting housing for you either in Staff Accommodation or in private rentals. You’ll be in shared accommodation with other Snowminds Instructors with a fantastic community together with all your future colleagues.
The living situation differs from resort to resort. You often live in older houses, hostels or small apartments, where the dorm-like setting is cozy. It’s important to keep an open mind, as the accommodation will likely be very different to what you are used to at home or would typically experience on a ski holiday. Therefore, it is best to not expect luxury for your accommodation. However, we’re absolutely certain that your winter accommodation will quickly become your new home and your new colleagues your new family. We’re sure that you’ll have a little tear in your eye when the season is at its last chapter and you’re about to move out of your home.

Accommodation is not usually included as part of a work contract in Canada so the rent is either deducted from your salary or paid separately. In most cases, you will be asked to sign a housing contract before arrival and make a prepayment of the full season’s rent and a significant deposit prepayment. Rent varies, but typically lies between 450-1200 Canadian dollars a month.

SALARY EXPECTATIONS

Your hourly wage as a Level 1 instructor will depend on a variety of factors, but generally starts at around 15 CAD or more. Beyond that, you may have bonus earning opportunities, such as tips or additional pay for private lessons—especially if guests specifically request you as their instructor. While this job won’t necessarily make you wealthy in monetary terms, it is a valuable investment in unforgettable experiences.

Initially, as a newly-certified instructor, you’ll likely find yourself lower on the work priority list than more seasoned colleagues. However, if you consistently show enthusiasm, dedication, and a strong work ethic, you can improve your earning potential over time. Your income will also vary based on the resort’s overall business levels, your previous experience, and your motivation to take on more work.

Spending habits and personal budgets differ widely, so earnings and expenses can vary from instructor to instructor. To make the most of the season, we generally recommend bringing at least 2000 CAD in pocket money. Since instructor pay is typically on an hourly or per-lesson basis, many instructors choose to supplement their income by taking on extra shifts in other resort departments, such as rentals or lift operations. This can be a great way to round out your earnings while enjoying the unique lifestyle and experiences that come with working in a ski resort.

Transport

TRANSPORT TO YOUR DESTINATION 

Return flights, to/from Canada and major airports such as London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, are included in our Canada course packages. We always try our best to book you on the same flight with other Snowminds instructors, or if this is not possible, arrange that you will arrive at a similar time.
When you arrive in Canada, there are a few practical things that we need to arrange so that you will be able to start employment at your ski school. This includes setting up a bank account and a Social Insurance Number. Depending on the location of your destination, this may mean that we stay a night together in the city before traveling to your new home for the winter. Your Snowminds Team leader will help you with these practicalities. Wherever your destination, we arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation when you arrive in Canada.


CAN I VISIT OTHER DESTINATIONS?

There will certainly be an opportunity for this, especially during the quieter periods. Canada is a big country and the distances between some resorts can be long, which can make for some epic road trip opportunities. The best way to get around is by buying a car together with those you live with or renting a car. It will typically be possible to visit ski resorts nearby at cheap prices through the ski school. They will also in some cases be able to provide cheaper lift passes to other areas. In addition, there are possibilities for bus-routes between the destinations.

RETURN TRAVEL  

Your flight ticket is a return ticket, so the return flight journey is included in the price. We book a return date based on your wishes. The transport to the airport when you go home, however, is NOT included, as many travel on, have to go home on different dates or otherwise.

If you want inspiration for round trips etc. we can always assist with this and help arrange. It is also something we want to talk about for the kick off event, so you can already start dreaming about further travel opportunities.

If you change your mind while you are in Canada and would like to change your return flight date, then there will be a change fee and possible flight fare price differences, but we will happily look into the different options and possibilities for you.

Language

The training and certification on all our courses in Canada will be in English and it is a requirement that you speak conversational English to attend the course.

Snowminds partners with ski schools in both Eastern and Western Canada, and our destination resorts in Quebec, such as Mont-Saint-Anne, Stoneham and Bromont, there are great opportunities to develop your French language skills.

Work Permit

Since there is a job placement included in this package, you will need to obtain a work permit before your departure. We will provide support and guidance to help you apply for the necessary visa, which gives you the right to work and travel in Canada for up to either 12 or 24 months (depending on which country you are from).

There is a limited amount of Working Holiday Visas allocated to each country and the process can take a long time. Therefore, we recommend that you secure your spot on the team as early as possible so that we can help you with the process and get the best chances of getting your hands on a visa.

What our instructors say

Daniel
5/5
Had an amazing winter at Kicking Horse in Canada with Snowminds. Also did their end of season Hawaii trip, which I HIGHLY recommend. It was an incredible way to end the season.
Oliver
5/5
Snowminds is legit !! I went out to Canada with them for the 22/23 season and loved it. It’s based in Denmark but has a pretty international outreach. They provide a lot of information for every detail of the trip so if you have any questions (I had a lot!) you can just email them to arrange a phone call and someone will talk you through everything.
Frederik
5/5
If you are still undecided whether to go or not my best advice is – GO! I had the most awesome experience with Snowminds, who took care of all the practical stuff and made sure I had a wonderful time in Canada and Japan over two seasons. Are you passionate about skiing and want to join a community in which skiing becomes your everyday life – then jump aboard the Snowminds-train. You will not regret it!
Daniel
Had an amazing winter at Kicking Horse in Canada with Snowminds. Also did their end of season Hawaii trip, which I HIGHLY recommend. It was an incredible way to end the season.
Oliver
Snowminds is legit !! I went out to Canada with them for the 22/23 season and loved it. It’s based in Denmark but has a pretty international outreach. They provide a lot of information for every detail of the trip so if you have any questions (I had a lot!) you can just email them to arrange a phone call and someone will talk you through everything.
Frederik
If you are still undecided whether to go or not my best advice is – GO! I had the most awesome experience with Snowminds, who took care of all the practical stuff and made sure I had a wonderful time in Canada and Japan over two seasons. Are you passionate about skiing and want to join a community in which skiing becomes your everyday life – then jump aboard the Snowminds-train. You will not regret it!

Course Price

Course Icon Level 1 & 2 ski instructor course in Canada

Course Icon from €9295

Course Icon

Course Icon November - April

Course Icon Sign up deposit €200

Apply

Any Questions? Call us!

Limited visas for Canada 25/26 🇨🇦

Apply now to secure your spot!

See courses

Book a talk

Call us

Close chat

Chat with us