Whitehorse REALTOR®  Discusses Jobs and Industries Driving the Yukon

Whitehorse is becoming a popular place to live. It’s the economic centre of the Yukon, where people from all over Canada are coming to build careers. For those with skills in trades, a background in teaching, or someone who loves the tourism industry, Whitehorse has plenty to offer. But finding a job in a smaller city comes with its own challenges. Where do you start? What industries are growing? And how do you decide between seasonal work versus year-round employment? In this post, your trusted Whitehorse REALTOR® will go over what drives Whitehorse’s economy and where to look if you’re job hunting in the Yukon.

The Industries That Keep Whitehorse Running

Whitehorse may feel remote, but its economy has started to become somewhat diverse. The backbone of the city is built on five major industries: trades, natural resources, government, education, and tourism. Each one offers different opportunities, depending on your skills and interests.

First up are trades. The Yukon is constantly growing, and with that growth comes the need for skilled workers. Carpenters, electricians, mechanics, and plumbers are always in demand. If you have experience in a trade or are thinking about an apprenticeship, Whitehorse could be a great place to settle. With steady construction projects and infrastructure improvements, this sector will not slow down anytime soon.

As for natural resources, mining has been a key driver of the Yukon’s economy for over a century. Gold, silver, copper, and other minerals continue to attract companies and workers. Jobs in this field range from equipment operators and engineers to environmental specialists. While mining jobs can be well-paid, they often require working in remote areas.

Government jobs provide some of the best stability in Whitehorse. As the territorial capital, the city is home to numerous government offices, offering careers in administration, policy, public works, and other branches. Federal, territorial, and municipal jobs often come with competitive salaries, good benefits, and long-term stability.

Education is another major employer in the Yukon. Schools and colleges in Whitehorse are always looking for teachers, administrators, and support staff. If you’re in education, this city has opportunities ranging from elementary schools to Yukon University.

Last on the list is tourism. Whitehorse is a home base for the Yukon wilderness, attracting visitors from all over the world. Tour guides, hotel staff, restaurant workers, and outdoor adventure companies rely on seasonal tourism. Summer is the busiest time, but winter tourism is growing, thanks to the northern lights and winter sports.

Where to Find a Job in Whitehorse According to Your Whitehorse REALTOR® 

Knowing where to look is half the battle when searching for a job. Thankfully, Whitehorse tries hard to advertise work opportunities to job seekers so they can find a career that suits their skill set.

Online job boards are a good starting point for anyone looking to begin a career in Whitehorse. Websites like Yukon Work InfoNet (YuWIN) and the Government of Yukon job portal post new opportunities regularly. National sites like Indeed and WorkBC also list Yukon-based jobs.

Recruiting companies can also be useful. Some businesses in Whitehorse use recruiters to fill specialized roles. If you have experience in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, or engineering, consider reaching out to a recruiter who specializes in northern placements.

For anyone interested in government work, checking government ads is a must. Both the Yukon government and the City of Whitehorse list jobs on their respective websites. These positions often have specific application requirements, so be sure to read the postings carefully!

Networking can also go a long way in your hunt for a career.. Whitehorse is a small community, and word-of-mouth is still one of the best ways to find work. Attending local events, joining community groups, or even chatting with people at your favourite coffee shop could lead to new opportunities.

Seasonal vs. Year-Round Employment

One thing job seekers should be aware of is the difference between seasonal and year-round employment in Whitehorse. Many industries, particularly tourism and construction, see a significant shift between summer and winter.

Tourism jobs tend to peak between May and September. This is when visitors flock to the Yukon for hiking, fishing, and sightseeing. Lodges, tour companies, and restaurants hire extra staff to handle the uptick in people. These jobs can be great if you want summer work or a short-term gig.

Construction jobs also follow the seasons. While there is work in the winter, summer is when major projects ramp up. If you’re in the trades, planning for the off-season is important.

On the other hand, government jobs, education positions, and some roles in the mining industry can offer year-round stability. Teachers, healthcare workers, and administrative staff can usually expect steady work no matter the season. If you’re looking for something long-term, these industries may be your best bet.

Contact a Whitehorse REALTOR® Today!

Finding a job in Whitehorse takes a bit of research, but the opportunities are there. With strong economic drivers and a range of job resources, this northern city has a lot to love! Whether you’re interested in mining, education, trades, or government work, there are careers waiting for you in the Yukon. If you’re thinking about making the move, start browsing job postings, connect with local employers, and see where you fit in Whitehorse’s economy.

Contact me today for more information about making the move to Whitehorse, Yukon. I look forward to working with you as your Whitehorse REALTOR®!