Work in Canada

Finding work or seasonal employment in Canada while on a Working Holiday Visa is a great way to fund your travels and experience the country’s diverse culture and landscapes. Whether you’re interested in seasonal jobs in the mountains, working in the service industry, or finding agricultural work, there are plenty of opportunities available for Working Holiday Visa holders. Here’s a guide on the types of jobs you can find, the average pay, and the best ways to search for employment in Canada.

Types of Work Available

1. Hospitality and Tourism: Jobs in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and cafes are widely available, especially in popular tourist destinations like Banff, Whistler, Vancouver, and Montreal. Common roles include waitstaff, bartenders, kitchen staff, housekeepers, and front desk attendants. These positions are popular among Working Holiday participants because they often offer flexible hours and tips.

2. Ski Resorts and Adventure Tourism: Canada is famous for its ski resorts, and seasonal work is abundant during the winter months in places like Whistler, Jasper, and Mont-Tremblant. Positions range from ski instructors to lift operators, rental shop assistants, and lodge staff. Many resorts offer perks like free or discounted lift passes for employees.

3. Farm and Agricultural Work: For those seeking rural experiences, farm work such as fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, or working on vineyards is common in regions like British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley and Ontario’s Niagara region. This work is typically seasonal and can be physically demanding but is a good way to earn money during peak harvest seasons.

4. Retail and Sales: Larger cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary have plenty of retail opportunities, especially in shopping malls and big brand stores. Retail jobs are usually available year-round, with peak hiring during the holiday season.

5. Construction and General Labor: Construction jobs, especially in rapidly growing cities, offer good pay and are accessible even for those without extensive experience. General labor jobs are also available in warehouses and factories, and these roles are often temporary, making them ideal for working holiday travelers.

6. Au Pair and Childcare: Working as an au pair or nanny is a popular choice for those who prefer living with a host family. These roles usually come with accommodation, meals, and a weekly stipend, making it easier to save money while living in a new country.

Average Pay

Wages in Canada can vary depending on the province, type of work, and your experience. On average:

• Hospitality and Tourism: CAD $15 - $20 per hour (plus tips)

• Ski Resorts and Adventure Tourism: CAD $15 - $22 per hour (some roles include tips or free accommodation)

• Farm and Agricultural Work: CAD $14 - $18 per hour (or paid per piece, such as per basket of fruit)

• Retail and Sales: CAD $14 - $18 per hour

• Construction and General Labor: CAD $18 - $25 per hour

• Au Pair and Childcare: CAD $200 - $400 per week (including accommodation and meals)

How to Search for Jobs

1. Job Portals: There are several websites specifically catering to job seekers, including those on Working Holiday Visas:

   • Indeed Canada (indeed.ca): A popular platform with a wide range of job listings across industries.

   • WorkBC (workbc.ca): A government-run job portal focused on opportunities in British Columbia, but also useful for other provinces.

   • Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca): The official Canadian government job board, which lists jobs in all sectors across the country.

   • Go Overseas (gooverseas.com): Specializes in connecting travelers with seasonal jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities in Canada.

   • Backpacker Job Board Canada (backpackerjobboard.ca): A job board specifically aimed at backpackers and Working Holiday Visa holders, with listings for farm work, hospitality, and more.

2. Company Websites and Resort Job Boards: Many ski resorts, hotels, and farms have their own job boards or career pages. For example:

   • Whistler Blackcomb (whistlerblackcomb.com): Lists seasonal and year-round job openings in one of Canada’s most popular ski destinations.

   • Banff Sunshine Village (skibanff.com): Offers job listings for various seasonal roles at this famous ski resort.

3. Facebook Groups and Social Media: There are many active Facebook groups and online communities where travelers share job opportunities and advice. Search for groups like “Canada Working Holiday Jobs” or specific ones for cities like Vancouver or Toronto.

4. Hostels and Local Networks: Many hostels, especially in tourist areas, have notice boards with job ads for travelers. Hostels can also be a good place to connect with other working holiday participants who might have leads on local jobs.

5. Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies specialize in temporary work and can be useful if you’re looking for short-term or seasonal jobs. Agencies like Adecco and Randstad have offices across Canada and can help match you with employers.

Tips for Job Hunting

• Apply Early for Seasonal Jobs: If you’re planning to work at a ski resort or in agriculture, start your job search early, as these positions are competitive. Many employers hire staff several months before the season begins.

• Tailor Your Resume: Even for casual jobs, having a Canadian-style resume that highlights relevant experience is important. Focus on experience in hospitality, customer service, or any specific skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

• Be Flexible: Employers often appreciate workers who are open to different roles or willing to relocate to areas where jobs are in demand. Flexibility can lead to more opportunities, especially if you’re open to moving between provinces.

Conclusion

Canada offers a wide range of job opportunities for Working Holiday Visa holders, from hospitality and retail to seasonal agricultural work and positions in ski resorts. By using job portals, networking through social media, and keeping an eye on local resources, you can find work that suits your interests and travel plans. With a bit of planning and an open mindset, you’ll be able to enjoy your Canadian adventure while earning money to support your stay.