If you want to work in Europe this winter, you can work at a ski camp in Switzerland. Winter ski camps are structured programs for kids and teens that aim to teach them how to ski. These camps offer paid jobs for international workers that usually include room and board and enable you to hit the slopes in your free time. This post lists 5 companies in Switzerland that have ski camps you can work at this winter.
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What to Know About Working at a Ski Camp in Switzerland
What is a Ski Camp
A ski camp is a structured program for kids and teens that focuses on developing their skiing skills. Usually camps operate during their winter holidays, between the months of November-February, and can range from a single weekend to a few weeks.
During the day the kids focus on developing the skills to learn how to ski. They eat all their meals together, engage in group activities in the evenings, and stay at camp overnight.
Requirements to Work at a Ski Camp in Switzerland
While requirements vary per camp, all ski/snowboard instructors need a recognized instructor certification in order to apply for the job. Most camps prefer their applicants to have experience working with youth and have a valid first aid/CPR certification. Other specific requirements are listed under their respective companies on the list below.
Switzerland Work VISA
If you are not an EU citizen, you will need to obtain the right to work in Switzerland, which means getting a valid work permit. To do so, you will need a job first.
I highly reccommend asking your employer what visa they reccommend/need you to apply for. Many employers will assist/support you through the application process.
What it’s Like Working at a Ski Camp
Working at a ski camp is a lot like working at a summer camp when it comes to the time and energy you put in. Usually it means working 6 days/week for 8-16 hours/day because you are not only teaching but are also eating meals with the kids, facilitating evening activities, and are on call during the night in case of emergencies.
A big perk of working at a ski camp is having access to the slopes and ski resort’s amenities. It also means living and working with others from around the world who share a lot of the same interests as you.
How Much Money You can Make
The money you make depends the position you work and what each individual company offers their employees. You could average between 500-600 Swiss Francs per week with the possibility of tips, but it’s important to know what your contracted pay will be before you accept a job. Generally, accommodation and meals are provided for you, so you do not have many weekly/monthly expenses.
Working at a Ski Camp Versus Working at a Ski Resort
Working at a ski camp means working with youth around the clock. It means engaging with them during meals and evening activities. It also means utilizing different tones and emotions while teaching skills on and off the slopes.
When you are working at a ski resort, your day is generally done after the usual work day ends, you have more free days/hours off, and have the opportunity of working with older cliental. In a way, it’s like comparing working at a summer camp versus working at a hotel.
Ski Camps in Switzerland to at Work this Winter
1. Viamonde
About: Viamonde is a Swiss company that provides outdoor education and multi-activity programs in Switzerland to international schools.
Location(s): Resorts are located in; Saas-Grund-Saas-Fee, Nendaz, Anzere, and Leysin.
Positions Available: Viamonde hires ski and snowboard instructors, health care counselors, chefs, activity counselors, and other domestic support staff.
Requirements: Workers require a valid CPR/first aid certification. Ski/snowboard instructors must have a valid instructor certification. Certain positions must be from specific countries (ex: US citizens can be ski instructors but not domestic staff).
Contract Length & Work Hours: Workers can commit to work the full season, from mid-December till the week after Easter, or work a half season from December to February or February to April. Most positions are 6 days/week, 8+ hours/day.
Where to Apply: Apply via their website; here.
2. Les Elfes International
About: Les Elfes International is a family run business that offers year-round educational camps for kids and teens ages 6 to 17.
Location(s): Verbier, Crans-Montana, and La Tzoumaz in the Swiss Alps.
Positions Available: Les Elfes hires ski/snowboard instructors and nurses.
Requirements: Applicants must speak English and have experience working in a camp setting or with young people ages 6-18. If you do not have an EU Passport you can be put on a 90 day GAP (trainee) contract.
Contract Length & Work Hours: Contracts are from November to May. Staff should expect to work 6 days/week, 8-16hrs/day.
Where to Apply: Apply via their website; here. (Applications must be open/active to apply.)
3. Lovell Camps
About: Lovell Camps offers international sport and education camps throughout the summer and winter seasons.
Location: Gstaad, Switzerland.
Positions Available: Lovell Camps hires ski/snowboard instructors, general camp counselors, and other positons.
Requirements: Applicants must be 20 years or older and have a university degree (or be in the process of obtaining a degree). Ski/snowboard instructors must have a valid instructor certification.
Contract Length: Contracts start in January or December and end in March.
Where to Apply: Apply via their staff page; here. (You will need to create a Campminder account to apply.)
4. FriLingue
About: FriLingue is a summer and ski camp operator that offers language immersion camps.
Location: Braunwald in Glarnerland.
Positions Available: FriLingue hires instructors, teachers, cooks, and activity leaders. You must reach out to inquire about positions not posted on their job opportunity page.
Requirements: Unknown.
Contract Length: Winter camps take place in December-January.
Where to Apply: Apply via the email provided on their jobs page; here.
5. Camp Suisse
About: Camp Suisee offers multi-activity summer and ski camps for youth ages 7-17.
Location: Val-d’llliez, Switzerland.
Positions Available: Camp Suisse hires ski instructors/counselors, group leaders, chefs, catering, drivers, housekeepers, and more.
Requirements: Staff must be from the EU or from a Free Trade Association country.
Contract Length: Contracts are from January to March.
Where to Apply: Apply via their website; here.
Conclusion
Working at a ski camp is a great opportunity to live and work abroad while having your meals and accommodation provided for you. Hopefully one of these five ski camps in Switzerland will be a good fit for you. Have you worked at a ski camp abroad? Have you worked with any of these ski camps in Switzerland? If so, please share your experience in the comments below!
