We are looking for two (2) freeski coaches for a fixed-term, full-time position for the seasons 2026-2029 (or as agreed). The position begins 1 August 2026 (or as agreed) and focuses on athlete development during the athlete selection phase, working with lower secondary (sports-focused middle school) and upper secondary level athletes.

In line with the mission of the Vuokatti-Ruka urheiluakatemia the Freeski Coach will work closely with the wider coaching and performance team and be part of a team responsible for the daily planning, delivery, reporting, and long-term development of freeski athletes within the academy environment and National Olympic Training Center Vuokatti-Ruka.

The Freeski coach will deliver individual- and group-based, progression-driven technical coaching to develop tricks safely, while also creating and maintaining a safe, inclusive, and athlete-centered environment for those athletes whose focus may include freeski culture, creativity, and film-based projects alongside competition pathways. Also have the desire to help mentor and create an environment for athletes to have the confidence to safely develop tricks themselves.

You will also be part of a specialist, multidisciplinary team, contributing to a holistic athlete experience that supports:
• Athletic development and performance
• Life skills and personal growth
• Academic success
• A lifelong commitment to health, physical activity, and sport

This approach recognizes that athlete goals may evolve over time and supports multiple pathways within freeskiing. This may be to help student athletes progress to international competitions in slopestyle, big air and street style, filming projects on slopes and streets and so on.

What we expect from you
We are looking for a coach who understands the diversity of freeski culture and wants to help young athletes find their own style and voice as the sport evolves.
Education and expertise
• A relevant degree in sports sciences or a vocational coaching qualification
• A pedagogical approach and genuine motivation to mentor young athletes
Sport expertise
• Strong freeski knowledge and proven experience in coaching results, whether through competition success or other sport-related projects
Collaboration and communication
• Ability to contribute to a well-functioning work community as part of a multidisciplinary expert team
Practical requirements
• Willingness to travel and commit to the Ruka-Kuusamo training environment
• Category B driving license required (C or D1 license considered an advantage)

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 center of the athlete development pathway, supporting young athletes on their journey toward elite sport. Our holistic approach combines sport-specific coaching, physical development, life skills education, and strong support for dual careers. We offer opportunity to work in one of the world’s most diverse and rapidly developing freeski academies, where openness, resilience, and the holistic well-being of athletes are highly valued. We support the professional growth of our coaches as part of the expertise network of the National Olympic Training Center Vuokatti-Ruka.

Our vision is to be the world’s most versatile freeski academy, recognized for producing both podium-winning athletes, dual careers, (expand on student athletes), while setting high standard for athlete well-being and holistic development in Finland.

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.

How to apply
Applications should primarily be submitted electronically via www.kuntarekry.fi using Job ID 708324. Certificates verifying eligibility must be attached to the application.

Alternatively, applications can be sent to:
City of Kuusamo
Education Services / Vuokatti-Ruka urheiluakatemia
PL 9, 93601 KUUSAMO, Finland

Original certificates must be presented during a potential interview. We reserve the right to start interviews before the application deadline if suitable candidates are found.

The selected candidate must provide:
• A medical certificate confirming fitness for work
• A criminal record extract in accordance with Finnish law (504/2002) within 30 days of the selection decision

The probationary period is six months.

Employee benefits
The City of Kuusamo offers employees the Epassi employee benefit. We support the development of staff competence and provide flexible working hours and the possibility of remote work, depending on the role.

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.