We are looking for two (2) enthusiastic and forward-thinking snowboarding 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 and upper secondary level athletes.

Role and multidisciplinary collaboration
As a sport-specific coach, you will be a key member of an expert team supporting the athlete’s holistic development pathway. You will work closely with other coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, and partner schools (Kuusamo Upper Secondary School and KAO Vocational College) to ensure athletes can successfully combine sport and education.

Your responsibilities
• Planning, delivering, and reporting daily coaching activities in the Ruka-Kuusamo area and during training camps
• Supporting athletes across diverse pathways: competitive snowboarding (slopestyle, big air), street snowboarding, and film projects
• Creating a physically and psychologically safe, inclusive, and motivating training environment

What we expect from you
We are looking for a coach with strong snowboarding expertise and proven experience in effective coaching.
Education and skills
• A relevant degree in sports sciences or a vocational coaching qualification
• A pedagogical approach and genuine motivation to mentor young athletes
Sport expertise
• Strong knowledge of snowboarding and proven results in coaching, 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)

What we offer
Community
The opportunity to work in one of the world’s most diverse snowboarding academies, where openness, resilience, and athlete well-being are highly valued.
Professional development
We support the professional growth of our coaches as part of the Vuokatti-Ruka Olympic Training Center (OVK) expertise network.

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.

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 708312. 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.