Everything You Need to Know About Finding a Job in Whistler

Where can I stay when I arrive?
Hostelling International has a hostel in Whistler and three in Vancouver.

Where do I fly to?
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the closest international airport. You can book ground transportation at the airport that will bring you directly to downtown Whistler with Pacific Coach or Perimeter Buses, or from downtown Vancouver with Greyhound (save 25% off fares with an HI membership card) or SnowBus.

When is the best time to look for a job?
Employers like to have their staff hired before the busy winter or summer seasons start. This means they mainly hire in October with start dates between November and December for the winter ski season, and during late April and May for the summer season. However, as in most tourist areas, there is a fair amount of turnover throughout the year, so there are always job opportunities arising. Whistler is booming so there is high demand for workers, of all trades, all year round.

What kinds of jobs are available?
As Whistler is a tourist destination most of the work relates to the service sector. Most jobs in this industry don't pay great but the fringe benefits of living here are often worth it. These jobs can include cashiers, various hotel jobs, retail, hospitality or on-mountain jobs. There is also a demand for tradespeople so, with the right papers and experience, you may be able to continue and expand you experience as a plumber, electrician or mechanic.

In general as Whistler is a relatively large resort town with many different activities to offer and an eclectic mix of residents, so you may surprise yourself with the job you end up taking. Most importantly, make sure that you take a job that will allow you plenty of time to play and do the things you came here for. You're on a working holiday at one of the BEST resorts in North America. Employers in the area know that you are here for the experience and are willing to accommodate you in that pursuit.

What is the best way to look for a job?
The key to getting a job is physically being here. Employers receive a lot of applications from potential workers from overseas. Many of these people never show up. An employer wants to see you in their doorway before they will hire you. Be realistic about the jobs you seek; it is unlikely you are going to find your dream job with a huge salary in a resort town, but you will be able to build upon any experience or skills you have, often in the most surprising ways. Spread your resume everywhere, ask around and make people aware of your skills and desire to work. Be flexible and ready to start work immediately.

Where should I look for a job?
The largest employer of front line staff is Intrawest Whistler Blackcomb and you can apply directly through their website all year round or at their recruitment fairs in late September and early November.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Four Seasons, Hilton, and Westin Spa and Resort are also large employers and jobs are posted regularly on their websites.
During the summer season the golf clubs are also a large employer; Nicklaus North Golf Club and Whistler Golf Club.
As with accommodation; on early Thursday morning grab a copy of the Pique Newsmagazine and The Whistler Question newspaper and go straight to the classifieds at the back. These papers are also available on-line. Smaller business around town will advertise here as well as the larger employers.
Other useful sources include:
Whistler Tourism Board
Employment Unlimited ? An employment agency specializing in construction-related labour management services. Building, renovations, bobcats, labourers, landscaping, snow removal, office temps and event staff are just some of the many positions arranged through Employment Unlimited.
The Resort Municipality of Whistler
Howe Sound Sea to Sky Job Board
Craigslist for Whistler ? Smaller employer and short term postings
Service Canada Job Bank ? Job bank for the whole of Canada
Whistler's Personnel Solution ? An agency focusing on placements in the accounting, administrative and management areas
Raisin Job Board ? Specializing in hospitality in the Vancouver and Whistler area
Whistler Chamber of Commerce Business Directory

Is it hard to find a place to live? Is it expensive?
In Whistler it can be difficult to find a place to live and it can be expensive. The good news is that most employers have staff accommodation which is relatively inexpensive. Staff accommodation usually means shared accommodation but can cost as little as $350 CDN a month. If you are offered a job, be sure to ask if staff accommodation is available. If you are not in staff accommodation, a shared room in apartments can cost $400 - $500 a month and a single room $500-$800. The further out of town you are prepared to live the better value for your buck you are likely to get and there is a really good public transport system in Whistler.

How much money do I need when I arrive?
It depends on your lifestyle but staying in Whistler does not need to be really expensive. Although groceries prices are a little more they are still reasonably priced, so if you can find a place to cook then you will save a lot of money.
You can walk most places and public transportation is efficient and cheap. During the summer (and the warmer winter months) a bike is the best way to get around. There is the valley trail that runs though Whistler and there is a wide cycle path along the highway. If you have the willpower to avoid the bars, restaurants and clubs then a few hundred dollars can be stretched a long way. In the low season also look out for special offers in the bars and restaurants around town.

How long will I need to wait before I see a paycheck?
Most employers pay two weeks in arrears. This means that once you have been hired, you will probably be waiting for up to three weeks before you see the paycheck. Arrive with enough cash to get you through this period. Also beware that some jobs are hired in October but only start when the season fully kicks off in December. Similarly some of the summer roles don't start until mid-June.

How do I get around? Do I need a car?
No, you don't really need a car. Whistler and Blackcomb villages are small enough to walk around and between and there is a good public transportation system (BC Transit Wave) to the small sub-villages of Creekside, Alpine Meadow and Cheakamus Crossing. There is also regular Greyhound service to Squamish, Pemberton and Vancouver.

What qualifications do I need?
If you are going to be handling food then you will need your Food Safe Level 1. If you will be selling any alcoholic beverages you will need your Serving it Right certificate. It is worth asking if your employer will pay for your training as many will.
Some roles may also require you to have an update First Aid certificate or a BC license.
 

Advice from those who have been there...
?Taking any job will allow you to meet lots of new people and take the pressure off your bank account.?

?Be flexible and reliable when applying for jobs.?

?Make sure you are organized and got all the necessary paper work sorted before you get to Whistler like police check certificate (which most places will require), Social Insurance Number, working visa permit, first aid certificates (where applicable), and trade certification papers (where applicable)."