We are seeking two (2) Alpine Ski Coaches for the Vuokatti-Ruka Sports Academy in Kuusamo for fixed-term positions covering the seasons 2026-2029. The employment begins on April 1, 2026, or as agreed. The positions focus particularly on athlete selection-phase coaching, meaning lower secondary (junior high) and upper secondary level athletes.

Job Description and Values
As an Alpine ski coach, you will work within a multidisciplinary professional network. Your responsibilities include planning and implementing a comprehensive coaching process. It is of primary importance to us that the coach creates a physically and psychologically safe environment for young athletes—one in which each athlete is respected and treated as an individual. Coaching should support the athlete’s intrinsic motivation, self-esteem development, and growth as a person. We listen to young athletes’ wishes and involve them in decision-making concerning themselves, while supporting the adoption of an athletic lifestyle and promoting holistic well-being and health.

What We Expect from You
We are looking for a coach with strong expertise in alpine skiing and proven experience in successful coaching.
Education and Expertise
• A relevant degree in sports sciences or a vocational qualification in coaching.
• We value a pedagogical approach and the ability to meet young athletes as individuals.
Interaction and Teamwork
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to take responsibility for the functioning of the work community and shared goals as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Practical Requirements
• Commitment to the Ruka-Kuusamo operating environment and willingness to travel.
• A Category B driving license is mandatory.
• Category C or D1 driving licenses are considered a significant advantage.
• If necessary, additional driving qualifications may be completed after employment begins.
Read more about driving in Finland with a foreign driving licence: https://www.traficom.fi/en/transport/drivers-and-vehicles/driving-licenses/driving-finland-foreign-driving-licence 

Vuokatti-Ruka Sports Academy as a Working Environment
We offer the opportunity to work at the heart of the athlete pathway, supporting young people on their journey toward high-performance sports. Our holistic pathway includes sport-specific coaching, physical performance training, life skills development, and strong support for a dual career (combining sport and education).
The National Olympic Training Center Vuokatti-Ruka operates as part of the academy. It is a national elite training and expertise center for Finnish winter sports, aiming to strengthen athletes’ and coaches’ performance capacity in line with international standards. Our athletes can combine goal-oriented sports and studies in a cost-effective way while benefiting from the excellent conditions of Northern Finland.

Apply Now!
We will begin interviews as soon as suitable applications are received and aim to make decisions as soon as possible after the application period ends. Act quickly and submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested.
Applications should primarily be submitted electronically at  www.kuntarekry.fi (Job ID 705208). Certificates verifying qualifications must be scanned and attached to the electronic application. Alternatively, applications may be sent to:
Kuusamon kaupunki
Education Office / Vuokatti-Ruka Sports Academy
P.O. Box 9
93601 KUUSAMO
Finland

Original qualification certificates must be presented at a possible interview. If suitable candidates are found, we reserve the right to begin interviews before the application deadline.
The selected candidate must provide an approved medical certificate regarding their health and present a criminal record extract in accordance with Finnish Act 504/2002 within 30 days of receiving the appointment decision. The probationary period is six (6) months.
The City of Kuusamo offers employees a local ePassi benefit. We support staff professional development and offer flexible working hours as well as the possibility of remote work when the job description allows.

Head of coaching Mika Pelli, Vuokatti-Ruka Sports Academy, tel. +358 50 4641 906 e-mail: mika.pelli(at)kuusamo.fi

City of Kuusamo, Education Office / Vuokatti-Ruka Sports Academy

The nature city of Kuusamo is a welcoming hub and home to independent and enterprising people. Enthusiasm and courage form the basis of cooperation — here, things are done a little differently. A good life flourishes in an international and creative environment. Kuusamo’s success is built on well-functioning services, year-round tourism, and the sustainable use of its pure nature and natural resources. The City of Kuusamo employs approximately 650 people.