Level 1 ski instructor course in Canada

Get certified as a level 1 ski instructor and work a winter in beautiful Canada

Join us on an epic ski instructor course in Canada

Embark on a remarkable journey to the world-renowned ski slopes of Canada with our Ski Instructor Course in Canada. Canada’s friendly, inclusive mountain culture, coupled with its exceptional off-piste and backcountry opportunities, makes it an alluring destination for aspiring ski instructors across the globe.

At Snowminds, we believe that everyone is capable of achieving greatness on the mountain. Our unique ski instructor training courses are spread across 15+ scenic Canadian destinations. With personalized instruction from our seasoned coaches, you’ll soon be ready to embark on a paid ski instructor job in your dream resort, lined up for the winter season.

Canada’s ski resorts each have their own charm, and with our wealth of experience, we excel at matching each instructor with their ideal resort and ski school. Be it the dynamic village life and expansive terrain of Whistler, the abundant freeride opportunities in Revelstoke, the easy-going locals and laid-back atmosphere of Kimberley, or the chance to hone your park skills and learn French in Eastern Canada’s Bromont, our Ski Instructor Course in Canada is tailored to suit both the resorts and your personal experience.

The ski instructor training in Canada

Begin your thrilling journey into the world of skiing with our intensive Ski Instructor Course in Canada. This program focuses on honing your technique and enhancing your development, preparing you for your instructor certification. No matter your skill level, our seasoned trainers are committed to guiding you, enabling you to ace your Level 1 exam.

After obtaining your Level 1 certification, your Canadian adventure truly begins. You’ll start working as a paid ski instructor at your assigned resort in Canada. Since Snowminds’ inception in 2012, we proudly have a 100% job placement rate for our ski instructors upon successful course completion.

For those wishing to take their skiing to the next level, we provide additional courses throughout the winter season. From Level 2 training, a backcountry training course, or for the adrenaline seekers, our heli-ski camp in Revelstoke. No matter the course, our dedicated team will guide you every step of the way on your unforgettable ski instructor journey in Canada. If you want to reach the next level immediately, check out our Level 1 and 2 ski instructor courses in Canada!

The ski instructor life in Canada

In Canada, as a Snowminds ski instructor, you’ll work alongside a diverse team at one of our established partner ski schools. This employment guarantees not only invaluable learning opportunities but also a chance to build international friendships that last a lifetime. Known for their friendly nature, your Canadian colleagues are likely to enhance your ski school experience.

Typically, a ski instructor’s day in Canada involves teaching in the morning and early afternoon, leaving the later hours open for free ski time with friends and colleagues.

Beyond teaching, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Canada’s inviting culture. Experience the thrill of hockey, indulge in substantial burgers, and explore the expansive, breathtaking nature surrounding you. As a ski instructor, you’ll have access to some of the world’s finest off-piste and backcountry skiing opportunities. Plus, being a part of our community connects you with friends in resorts across Canada, perfect for making those dreamy road trips a reality. A ski instructor course in Canada offers a lifestyle that most can only dream of.

After the season, which typically lasts until April, you will have the opportunity to wrap up your season in Hawaii together with other Snowminds instructors. You can also travel around Canada and the USA with the other Snowminds ski instructors, and thus get a unique total experience during your gap year.

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

Snowminds instructors in Cypress, Canada

Communal dinner with Snowminds instructors, Canada

Evening activities in SilverStar, Canada

Ski instructor in Revelstoke, Canada

Ski instructors in SilverStar, Canada

Off piste in Sun Peaks, Canada

Sun Peaks back country course, Canada

Snowminds instructors in Cypress, Canada

Ski instructor in Whistler, Canada

Ski instructors in SilverStar, Canada

Communal dinner with Snowminds instructors, Canada

Evening activities in SilverStar, Canada

SilverStar village, Canada

Evening team activity in Sun Peaks

Group dinner with instructors

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 ski instructor course in Canada, you can look forward to the following benefits:

A winter season in Canada as a ski instructor
Job placement at a local ski school in Canada*
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 (for most internships, this covers the initial training period and exam days before starting employment) ***
Breakfast and dinner 5 days per week for a total of 15 days
Season lift pass (as long as employed)
12 days of ski training delivered by professional ski instructors
The Canadian level 1 ski instructor certification (including CSIA or PSIC exam, course materials, and certificates)
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
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 the Canadian ski instructor course that fits you best, the following could also be included in your package:

Avalanche Skill Training (AST) course
Freeride / All mountain improvement training days
Snow Park / Freestyle training days
Canadian Snow Park instructor certification
In-resort French language training
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.

* 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 ski instructor courses in Canada

Here you can read more about the destinations in which we offer our Level 1 ski instructor courses in Canada. If you want to get to the next Level immediately, check out our Level 1 and 2 ski instructor courses in Canada or our Level 2 add-on options.

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. Your specific course/program will be confirmed with you when your application is matched to a ski school. Below you can see the pricing and details for snowboard instructor internships in resorts in Canada.

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 Training Program: (From €8595)
– 11 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA Level 1 certification

In Big White you also have the opportunity to take your Level 1 and Level 2 ski instructor certification. Take a look at our Level 1 and 2 ski instructor courses in Canada!

Castle

Become a ski instructor in Castle Mountain Resort

Castle Mountain Resort offers a genuine Canadian ski experience with adrenaline-fueled terrain, friendly locals, and pristine powder. Working here as a ski instructor means first-class skiing, a welcoming community, and the chance to live the authentic mountain lifestyle.

Travel dates: End of November to April
Level 1 Training Program: (From €7595)
– 12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– PSIC level 1 Certification

If you want to take your skiing to the next Level, you can check out our Level 2 course here.

Cypress

Become a ski instructor in Cypress Mountain Resort

Cypress Mountain offers an incredible combination of world-class skiing and vibrant city life just minutes from downtown Vancouver. With diverse terrain, professional training opportunities, and a welcoming ski school team, being an instructor at Cypress means sharpening your skills while enjoying all the beauty and culture the Vancouver area has to offer.

Travel dates: End of November to April
Level 1 Training Program: (From €7995)
– 12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– PSIC level 1 Certification

If you want to take your skiing to the next Level, you can check out our Level 2 course here.

Kicking Horse

Become a ski instructor in Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Kicking Horse is a paradise for thrill-seekers, offering steep slopes, deep snow, and breathtaking views from its summit gondola. Working here as a ski instructor means testing your skills on world-class terrain, indulging in local mountain cuisine, and enjoying the close-knit community of Kicking Horse Village.

Travel dates:Beginning of December to April
Level 1 Training Program: (From €8595)
– 6 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA level 1 Certification
– 6 freeride/all mountain training days

If you want to take your skiing to the next Level, you can check out our Level 2 course here.

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 Training Program: (From €8595)
– 12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA level 1 Certification
– Training in a secondary role + job placement in ski school is combined with a role in another department e.g lift operations + rentals*

In Marmot Basin you also have the opportunity to take your Level 1 and Level 2 ski instructor certification. Take a look at our Level 1 and 2 ski instructor courses in Canada!

Mont-Sainte-Anne

Become a ski instructor in Mont-Saint-Anne

Mont-Sainte-Anne is one of Eastern Canada’s premier ski destinations, offering spectacular slopes and stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. As a ski instructor, you’ll work alongside a dynamic team, sharing your passion for the sport while enjoying unique terrain and vibrant local culture. With opportunities to improve your technique, immerse yourself in French language and culture, and experience exciting activities, Mont-Sainte-Anne is the perfect destination for an unforgettable season.

Travel dates: Beginning of January to April
Level 1 Training Program: (From €7295)
– 10 half-day training sessions in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA level 1 Certification

If you want to take your skiing to the next Level, you can check out our Level 2 course here.

Panorama

Become a ski instructor in Panorama Mountain Village

Panorama Mountain Resort is one of British Columbia’s hidden gems, offering vast terrain, stunning mountain views, and a relaxed atmosphere. As a ski instructor, you’ll enjoy untouched powder, the highest vertical drop in Canada, and the chance to develop your skills while working with a team of experienced instructors. With lively après-ski options, natural hot springs, and easy access to Banff National Park, Panorama is the ideal place to combine professional growth and unforgettable adventures in the Canadian Rockies.

Travel dates: End of November to April
Level 1 Training Program (From €7995)
– 12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA level 1 Certification

If you want to take your skiing to the next Level, you can check out our Level 2 course here.

Stoneham

Become a ski instructor in Stoneham Mountain Resort

Stoneham Mountain Resort, located just 30 minutes from Quebec City, offers a vibrant mix of challenging terrain and freestyle features, including Quebec’s only Olympic half-pipe. Known for its lively atmosphere and strong focus on both skiing and snowboarding, Stoneham is a great place for instructors to grow their skills. The welcoming snow school team of 150 instructors ensures you’ll have both expert guidance and plenty of camaraderie throughout the season. Situated in a French-speaking region, Stoneham also provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and pick up some French along the way.

Travel dates: End of November to April
Level 1 Training Program (From €7295)
– 10 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification combined with French language lessons
– CSIA Level 1 certification

If you want to take your skiing to the next Level, you can check out our Level 2 course here.

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 Training Program (From €8595)
– 12 training days in preparation for level 1 instructor certification
– CSIA Level 1 certification
– opportunity to book 20 Day Back Country course

In Sun Peaks you also have the opportunity to take your Level 1 and Level 2 ski instructor certification. Take a look at our Level 1 and 2 ski instructor courses in Canada!

Whistler

Become a ski instructor in Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb is a world-class resort that boasts over 200 slopes, 31 kilometers of terrain, and an astounding 11 meters of annual snowfall. As a ski instructor in Whistler, you’ll not only gain experience at the world’s largest ski school, but you’ll also become part of a vibrant international community. Beyond the slopes, Whistler Village offers a lively après-ski scene, incredible dining, and plenty of nightlife, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies.

Our Whistler ski instructor course does not have meals included, but instead 4 weeks of accommodation. Please see specific details and apply for Whistler specific course here if interested.

Travel dates: End of November to April/May.

Level 1 training program (From €7995)

WBSSU training program in preparation for level 1 certification
CSIA or PSIC level 1 certification
Note: meal plan is not included in Whistler, 4 weeks of accommodation is included rather than 3.
After successful completion of course, level 2 training + certification options provided in resort by ski school.

Read more about the opportunity to become a ski OR snowboard instructor in Whistler here.

KEY DETAILS ABOUT THE COURSE

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

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 like feel 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, for example, a 5 star ski chalet. Therefore, it is best to not expect luxury for your winter seasonal 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 wage depends on many factors, but you can expect to make around 15+ CAD per hour as a level 1 instructor and also get different bonus opportunities, for example, tips and extra private lessons if a guest wishes to book a private lesson and requests you personally.
In terms of financial expectations, let’s be clear: the job as an instructor will not make you rich money wise, but definitely rich with experiences. As a newly-educated instructor, you are typically on the “bottom of the food chain” regarding work. In other words, the more experienced instructors get first preference, but the more you show your passion and desire to work hard, the better. The amount you make as an instructor therefore often depends on both business levels in the resort, your own motivation, your working ethics and your previous working experience.
In general, it is very different from what our instructors earn and spend during the season since habits/personal budgets vary so much, but in general we recommend having a very minimum of 2000 CAD in pocket money so you can make the most of the season.

Since the instructor work is typically paid hourly, per lesson you teach, some instructors choose to pick up extra work in other departments on the mountain to supplement their income as an instructor. In Canada, there are typically opportunities to pick up extra shifts in rentals, lift operations and other departments in resorts.

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.