Work in a chalet like this one!

Let’s face it, if you are out in a ski resort for the winter then you want as much time to ski or snowboard as much as possible. Problem is, most of us have to work as well as play but there are ways of maximising mountain time – choose your job carefully.

Many jobs are available in a ski resort through the winter but some will take up all of your riding time. What you want is morning and/or evening work, below is a list of jobs of our top jobs that will maximise your time on the slopes.

1. Chalet Chef/Host

This is the most popular winter job, especially in European ski resorts as there are some many catered chalets in operation. Normally a chalet is run by two friends or a couple who together provide breakfast and dinner as well as maintain the chalet cleanliness-wise. This means that pretty much all work will be done by about 11 o’clock in the morning and then the majority of the afternoon will be free time until preparation for the evening meal commences.

1. Ski Tech

In Europe, especially in France, shops are closed normally for at least two hours, sometimes four, every afternoon which means those who work there can get out and enjoy the mountain like everyone else. Shops are open later so you would tend to work until seven or eight in the evening but who cares, the lifts are shut by then!

1. Bar Person

As long as you can guarantee that your hours are evening time then you are laughing. This is not an easy job as there is lots of drinking and late nights involved…If you are a young, fun loving party animal then perfect, if you are not then think again!

There are of course other factors to consider when applying for jobs to work a ski season. Is your accommodation included? Will you get a discounted or free lift pass?  If you work for an established ski company there is a good chance that you will have everything paid for but on the other hand the wage packet may be pretty small! It all depends on want you want from your season, whether its just a gap year, a sabbatical or a means to an end it is more than likely going to be a hell of a lot of fun!

Tags: Outdoor Pursuits, Winter sports