Hundreds of winter jobs still available at Swedish ski resorts - but application deadlines are fast approaching

There are still plenty of winter jobs available for anyone hoping to spend the season at a Swedish ski resort. Almost 400 vacancies for seasonal roles in mountain tourism have been advertised on the Swedish Public Employment Service’s Platsbanken job platform since the summer - 15 percent more than last year. Northern Lights guide and reindeer herder are two examples of roles still open for applications.

Winter seasonal jobs are not only for young people looking for their first job. They can also be a good option for those who already work seasonally during the summer, for example in hospitality, restaurants, parks, agriculture or events. By combining summer and winter seasons, workers can create a more continuous working year while building experience across different parts of the service and tourism sectors.

Anyone who wants to work at a Swedish ski resort this winter, however, needs to act quickly. On 26 October, 168 vacancies in mountain tourism were still open for applications, along with 66 other seasonal roles, mainly in snow clearing. The largest number of vacancies can be found in Åre, the Funäsfjällen area, Vemdalen and Riksgränsen/Björkliden.

“There are still plenty of jobs available at Swedish ski resorts, but time is running out. Many of the major employers have already closed their applications, so anyone who wants to work this winter needs to apply now. For young people, a seasonal job can be more than just a few months’ pay - it can be the start of a CV, a savings buffer and a better understanding of their own finances. And for those who already work seasonal jobs in the summer, a winter season at a ski resort can be a smart way to extend the working year,” says Marcus Karlsson, personal finance expert at Sambla.

Recruitment is starting earlier

Sambla’s analysis shows that recruitment for the winter season at Swedish ski resorts has begun earlier than in previous years. Two out of three vacancies were already advertised in August, compared with around half last year. As a result, many roles at the largest employers have already been filled. At the same time, several hundred winter jobs are still open for applications.

“Your first pay packet is a milestone, but also an opportunity to build habits that last. Anyone who gets a seasonal job this winter would be wise to decide from the outset how much should go towards accommodation, leisure and savings. That can be the difference between money simply passing through your account and the job actually giving your finances a boost,” says Marcus Karlsson, personal finance expert at Sambla.

Most jobs are in restaurants and kitchens

Among the open ski resort vacancies, restaurant and kitchen roles make up the largest category. There are 40 vacancies for waiting staff, bar and breakfast service roles, and 33 for chefs, head chefs, pizza chefs and bakers. These are followed by cleaning and cabin service, ski rental and retail, property and maintenance, and reception roles.

Examples of jobs still open for applications

Among the more unusual winter jobs that were still open on 26 October are:

• Northern Lights guide in Björkliden, where the role involves guiding guests to the Northern Lights and being a strong storyteller.
• Guide for a Sámi reindeer herder in Kiruna, where the tasks include learning how to tame and drive reindeer, cook over an open fire and talk about Sámi culture.
• Machine operator for ice tracks in Arjeplog, where the job involves building and maintaining ice tracks for car manufacturers’ winter testing.
• Staff at Våffelstugan in Lofsdalen, where the role involves making waffles 820 metres above sea level.
• Driver at Topptaxi in Åre, where the employer helps with obtaining a taxi driver’s licence and the role may suit students looking for extra work.

How Sambla conducted the analysis

Sambla’s analysis is based on vacancies advertised on the Swedish Public Employment Service’s Platsbanken job platform between 1 August and 26 October 2026. Vacancies were selected if they related to seasonal winter jobs and, for example, mentioned the winter season, ski resorts, the mountains or typical ski-related roles such as lift host, ski instructor or snow groomer operator. Duplicate adverts were counted only once.

Sambla’s tips for those looking for a seasonal job this winter

1. Apply quickly

Many vacancies close as early as late October or early November. Of the open ski resort vacancies, 68 close by 1 November at the latest, so timing is important.

2. Broaden your search geographically

Do not only look at the best-known ski resorts. Jobs are available in places ranging from Åre and Sälen to Riksgränsen, Björkliden, Abisko, Hemavan, Kungsberget, Branäs and Grönklitt.

3. Be open to different types of roles

Restaurants, kitchens, cleaning, reception, ski rental and lift operations are common routes in. If you lack experience, being service-minded, punctual and flexible can be just as important as previous industry experience.

4. Highlight that you can work when needed

Seasonal jobs often involve evenings, weekends and busy periods during school holidays and peak season. Show in your application that you understand what the role requires and that you are prepared to take responsibility.

5. Use your network

Tell friends, family, former employers, teachers and coaches that you are looking for a job. Many first jobs come through contacts, recommendations and personal initiative.

6. Plan your finances before your first pay packet

A seasonal job is not just a chance to earn money. It is also a good opportunity to start saving, understand tax and pay, and build healthy financial habits. Read more in Sambla’s guide: Young People’s First Guide to Jobs & Money. The guide provides practical tips on how young people can find and land their first job, and how they can make smart use of their first pay packets.

7. Think seasonally all year round

If you already work during the summer season, for example in restaurants, tourism, service, agriculture or events, a winter job at a ski resort can be a way to extend the working year. It provides both more months of income and the opportunity to build on experience you already have.