A person standing in an art Gallery

Arts, Culture, Recreation, and Sport

Introduction

The VIU Employer Directory is designed to be your compass to begin navigating the professional landscape, bridging the gap between your academic achievements and your career aspirations, but please be aware that there might be local opportunities and organizations that are not included on this resource, and continue to conduct your own research and build your network.

As you are interacting with employers, please also remember that you represent Vancouver Island University. Visit this Business Etiquette resource that our team has developed, or visit the VIU Career Studio if you need additional help.

*Please note that the inclusion of an organization on this resource does not indicate a partnership between Vancouver Island University and that organization, or an endorsement of that organization. No organizations have paid to be included on this resource, and the Centre for Experiential Learning reserves the right to not display an organization on this resource at our discretion. If your organization would like to be included on this resource, please email CareerStudio@viu.ca.

These categories were designed to align as closely as possible with the Canadian National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes. This category contains the following sub-categories:

Creative and Performing Arts

  • This category encompasses organizarions and careers directly involved in the creation and performance of art and entertainment, as well as roles focusing on the administrative and managerial aspects of arts and culture organizations.

Culture, Heritage and Libraries

  •  Encompasses the management and preservation of cultural and historical artifacts and literature.

Media Production and Broadcasting

  • Covers technical and production roles in media, broadcasting, and entertainment.

Recreation, Sports, and Fitness

  •  Focused on the development, training, and leadership in recreational and sports activities.

Creative and Performing Arts

  • Description: The Arts Club Theatre Company, established in 1958 in Vancouver, British Columbia, is Canada's largest not-for-profit urban theatre company. Known for its commitment to producing an array of performances including Canadian works, comedies, musicals, dramas, and revues, the company also emphasizes the development of local and Canadian talent. With a history of launching the careers of renowned Canadian performers, the Arts Club Theatre Company offers a variety of roles, from artistic and production roles to educational and administrative positions. Career opportunities can be explored for those interested in theatre production, performance arts, and organizational support roles within a leading cultural institution.
  • Careers Website: Arts Club Theatre Company Employment

  • Description: Ballet BC, a contemporary dance company in Vancouver, focuses on creating and producing contemporary ballet. It presents a diverse repertoire, collaborating with both Canadian and international choreographers. The company emphasizes innovation and accessibility in dance, engaging in educational and community outreach activities. Ballet BC's commitment extends to diversity and inclusivity, fostering conversations around equity and representation. Opportunities at Ballet BC could include roles in dance, choreography, production, and administrative functions, appealing to students and alumni of Vancouver Island University who are interested in contemporary dance, arts administration, and community engagement.
  • Careers Website: Ballet BC Careers

  • Description: The Belfry Theatre, based in Victoria, focuses on contemporary plays, with an emphasis on Canadian works. Operating in a former Baptist Church since 1976, it produces up to 12 plays annually, including summer productions and a mid-winter festival, SPARK, showcasing innovative work. Its mission is to produce thought-provoking theatre that makes audiences see the world differently. The Belfry offers roles in acting, production, and administrative areas, providing opportunities for Vancouver Island University students or alumni interested in theatre arts, cultural management, and community engagement. 
  • Website: Belfry Theatre

  • Description: The British Columbia Arts Council (BCAC), established in 1995, supports and nurtures arts and cultural activity across British Columbia. The Council engages in a broad range of activities, from community arts in both rural and urban centers to supporting individual artists, professional performing arts companies, Indigenous artists, art galleries, museums, and music festivals. BCAC's funding programs include individual arts grants, project assistance grants, and operating assistance grants, catering to a diverse range of artistic disciplines and organizational needs. These opportunities could appeal to Vancouver Island University students or alumni interested in arts and culture sectors, offering avenues for professional development, project funding, and involvement in cultural initiatives.
  • Careers Website: BC Arts Council (career opportunities may be limited; check the government of BC's job portal for related positions)

  • Description: The Nanaimo Arts Council (NAC) is dedicated to fostering creative activities through its programs and partnerships, serving a wide range of artistic expressions in the Nanaimo community. With over 50 years of involvement, the NAC has significantly contributed to the development of local arts organizations and events, such as the Port Theatre and the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music. Their mission is to facilitate connections between artists, arts organizations, and the community, promoting creative opportunities for all. The NAC may offer various roles and opportunities for involvement, likely appealing to Vancouver Island University students or alumni interested in arts administration, event coordination, and community arts engagement.
  • Careers Page: Nanaimo Arts Council

  • Description: The Nanaimo Art Gallery is a vibrant center for visual arts in the region, offering contemporary art exhibition, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives, while providing artistic and cultural services.
  • Website: Career opportunities at the Nanaimo Art Gallery, when available, can typically be found on their website or through local arts and culture job boards. Visit Nanaimo Art Gallery Employment for more information.

  • Description: Pacific Opera Victoria, established with a vision to enrich lives through opera, aims to create distinctive and inclusive opera experiences. Their activities include curating diverse repertoires and producing new and original productions, fostering artist development, and engaging audiences with the communicative power of opera. They also focus on youth education and community engagement, addressing cultural and social needs. The organization offers various roles for artists and professionals in production, administration, and community outreach, suitable for Vancouver Island University students and alumni seeking careers in performing arts, arts management, or community engagement.
  • Careers Website: Pacific Opera Victoria Careers

  • Description: The Royal BC Museum, located in Victoria, aims to make its collections and knowledge accessible to all British Columbians. It focuses on preserving and showcasing the province's human and natural history through research, exhibitions, publications, and educational programs. The Museum is also committed to serving as a cultural and educational organization. Opportunities at the Museum may include roles in research, curation, conservation, education, and administration, which can be appealing to Vancouver Island University students and alumni interested in heritage, museum studies, education, and public engagement.
  • Careers Website: Royal BC Museum Careers

  • Description: TheatreOne, located in Nanaimo, BC, aims to provide community experiences that are thought-provoking and emotionally resonant through contemporary theatre. They focus on producing high-quality, diverse theatrical programming for mid-island audiences and support the development of theatre professionals in Canada and British Columbia. Their activities include engaging local audiences, fostering new Canadian works, premiering productions, and supporting touring artists. The organization offers various roles in acting, production, and administration, suitable for Vancouver Island University students or alumni interested in the performing arts, cultural management, and community engagement.
  • Website: TheatreOne

  • Description: The Vancouver Art Gallery, established in 1931, is recognized for its innovative approach to visual arts. It focuses on historical and contemporary art from British Columbia and globally, with special attention to Indigenous artists and those from the Asia Pacific region. The Gallery supports public programs and advances scholarship. It is a charitable, not-for-profit organization, offering roles in curation, education, administration, and volunteer opportunities, which would be appealing to Vancouver Island University students or alumni interested in art, culture, and community engagement.
  • Careers Website: Vancouver Art Gallery Careers

  • Description: The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO) is dedicated to enriching and transforming lives through music. It offers a diverse range of concerts and musical events, featuring classical, contemporary, and educational performances. The VSO also provides community engagement through its education and outreach programs, enhancing music appreciation and participation. Opportunities within the VSO include roles for musicians, administrative staff, and volunteers, appealing to individuals interested in music performance, arts management, and community outreach. These roles align with the VSO's commitment to musical excellence and community service.
  • Careers Website: Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Careers

  • Description: The Vancouver Island Symphony is a professional orchestra based in Nanaimo, British Columbia, offering a range of orchestral performances. It focuses on attracting talented musicians and soloists from across Canada and provides special educational and community concerts. The VIS actively engages volunteers and donors, serving as a significant creative asset in the Central Island area. For Vancouver Island University students or alumni, opportunities within the VIS might include roles in music performance, education, event management, and various administrative positions, aligning with their interest in music and cultural development.
  • Website: Vancouver Island Symphony

Culture, Heritage, and Libraries

  • Description: Cirque Du Soleil, renowned worldwide for its artistic entertainment, combines circus arts with street performance to create spectacular shows. Based in Montreal, Canada, but performing globally, Cirque Du Soleil is known for its creative approach to live entertainment, featuring acrobatics, music, dance, and elaborate staging. The organization offers a wide range of career opportunities, including roles in performance art (such as acrobats, dancers, musicians), technical support (lighting, sound, set design), costume design, production management, marketing, sales, and administrative functions. Cirque Du Soleil is an ideal workplace for individuals with a passion for the performing arts, creativity, and innovation in entertainment.
  • Careers Website: Cirque Du Soleil Careers

  • Description: The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) is a vital community resource in Victoria, British Columbia, providing public access to a wide range of information and services. GVPL offers library collections, digital resources, educational programs, and community events to support literacy, lifelong learning, and cultural enrichment. The library serves as a community hub, fostering a love for reading and learning in people of all ages. Career opportunities at GVPL may include roles in library science (such as librarians and library technicians), program coordination, community outreach, customer service, information technology, and administrative support. The GVPL is an ideal workplace for individuals passionate about public service, education, and community engagement.
  • Careers Website: Greater Victoria Public Library Careers

  • Description: The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the research, collection, and exhibition of artifacts and cultural objects from around the globe, with a particular focus on the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. MOA offers educational programs, exhibitions, and public events aimed at promoting understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity and human creativity. Career opportunities at the Museum of Anthropology may include roles in museum curation, research, education and outreach, exhibit design, conservation, administration, and visitor services. MOA is an ideal workplace for individuals interested in anthropology, cultural studies, museum studies, and public education.
  • Careers Website: Museum of Anthropology Careers

  • Description: The Nanaimo Art Gallery is a vibrant center for visual arts in the region, offering contemporary art exhibition, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives, while providing artistic and cultural services.
  • Website: Career opportunities at the Nanaimo Art Gallery, when available, can typically be found on their website or through local arts and culture job boards. Visit Nanaimo Art Gallery Employment for more information.

  • Description: The Nanaimo Museum, located in Nanaimo, British Columbia, is a dynamic local museum dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Nanaimo area. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, educational programs, and community events that showcase the region's history, from its Indigenous roots to contemporary times. Its collections and displays provide insights into the area's industrial, cultural, and natural history. Career opportunities at the Nanaimo Museum may include roles in museum curation and management, historical research, education and public programming, exhibit design, conservation, and administrative support. The museum is an ideal workplace for individuals passionate about history, cultural preservation, education, and community engagement.
  • Careers Website: Nanaimo Museum (specific career opportunities might be listed on-site or through local job boards)

  • Description: The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is a comprehensive library system serving communities across Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the mainland communities of Haida Gwaii and Bella Coola. VIRL provides access to a wide range of information resources, including books, digital media, educational programs, and community events. The library system is committed to fostering literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement through its services. Career opportunities at VIRL may include roles in library science (such as librarians and library technicians), program development, community outreach, information technology, and administrative support. VIRL is an ideal workplace for individuals passionate about public library services, community education, and information access.
  • Careers Website: Vancouver Island Regional Library Careers

  • Description: The Vancouver Public Library (VPL) is a major public library system serving the city of Vancouver and its surrounding communities. As one of the largest library systems in Canada, VPL provides an extensive collection of books, digital media, and other resources. It also offers various programs and services, including literacy programs, community events, educational workshops, and public access to technology. VPL is committed to fostering a love for reading, supporting lifelong learning, and enhancing community engagement. Career opportunities at VPL include roles in library and information science, program coordination, digital services, community outreach, and administrative support. The library system is an ideal workplace for individuals passionate about public service, education, and community development.
  • Careers Website: Vancouver Public Library Careers

Media Production and Broadcasting

  • Description: Aboriginal Peoples Television Network Inc. (APTN) is the first national Indigenous broadcaster in the world, offering a wide array of content that reflects the diversity of Indigenous cultures and languages in Canada. APTN provides news, documentaries, dramas, and educational programs, aiming to share authentic stories, voices, and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples. Career opportunities at APTN include roles in media production, journalism, content creation, technical support, marketing, administration, and cultural consultancy. APTN is an ideal workplace for individuals passionate about media, storytelling, and the representation and celebration of Indigenous cultures.
  • Website: For more information about career opportunities, visit: APTN Careers.

  • Description: BC Ferries is one of the largest and most sophisticated ferry transportation systems in the world, providing essential passenger and vehicle ferry services across coastal and island communities in British Columbia. With a fleet of vessels and network of terminals, BC Ferries plays a crucial role in connecting people and communities, as well as supporting the economy and tourism. The company offers a range of career opportunities, including roles in marine operations (such as captains, engineers, deckhands), customer service, terminal operations, maintenance and engineering, corporate services, and administration. BC Ferries is an ideal workplace for individuals interested in maritime transportation, customer service, and operations management.
  • Careers Website: BC Ferries Careers

  • Description: Bell Media is a prominent Canadian media and broadcasting company, operating television, radio, and digital media assets. It owns some of Canada's most famous TV networks and radio stations, focusing on delivering high-quality news, sports, and entertainment content. Bell Media offers various career opportunities across its multiple platforms, including roles in content creation, production, digital media management, and broadcasting. Internship programs are also available for students and recent graduates looking to gain industry experience.
  • Careers Website: Bell Media Careers

  • Description: CBC/Radio-Canada is Canada's national public broadcaster, offering a wide range of multimedia services including TV, radio, and online content in English and French. It serves to inform, enlighten, and entertain, aiming to strengthen Canadian culture. Opportunities at CBC/Radio-Canada are diverse, ranging from journalism, production, and engineering to marketing and administration. The broadcaster also offers internships and co-op programs to nurture new talent.
  • Careers Website: CBC/Radio-Canada Careers

  • Description: CHEK News is an independent TV station in Victoria, British Columbia, recognized as one of the first employee-owned stations in North America. It specializes in providing local news, weather, and community stories. CHEK offers career opportunities in news reporting, broadcasting, production, and digital media.
  • Careers Website: CHEK News Careers

  • Description:  CTV News Vancouver, a division of CTV News, focuses on in-depth news coverage in the Greater Vancouver area. It's part of the extensive network of Bell Media's media outlets. The station is known for its robust journalism, production, and digital content creation sectors. Opportunities include positions for on-air reporting, behind-the-scenes production roles such as camera operation and video editing, as well as digital roles focused on content management and social media engagement.
  • Careers Website: CTV News Vancouver Careers

  • Description: Global BC, a key component of Global News, provides exhaustive news coverage across British Columbia. The network focuses on high-quality journalism, weather forecasting, and community stories. Opportunities at Global BC span from on-air roles like reporting and anchoring to technical positions in production, such as directors, producers, and video editors. Additionally, digital media roles include content creators and social media strategists.
  • Careers Website: Global BC Careers

  • Description: Knowledge Network, British Columbia's public broadcaster, is dedicated to delivering educational content that informs and inspires. It offers a variety of career opportunities in areas such as documentary production, educational programming, and digital media. Positions typically include content development, research, editing, and multimedia production.
  • Careers Website: Knowledge Network Careers

  • Description: Rogers Sports & Media, a division of Rogers Communications, focuses on delivering sports and media entertainment across Canada. It provides a wide range of career opportunities, including roles in sports broadcasting, media production, digital content creation, and operations management. There are also openings in marketing and sales, particularly related to sports and entertainment media.
  • Careers Website: Rogers Careers

  • Description: Telus is a leading telecommunications company in Canada, known for its wireless services and broadband communications. It offers a wide array of career opportunities, ranging from IT and engineering to customer service and digital media marketing. Telus is also dedicated to innovation in healthcare technology solutions.
  • Careers Website: Telus Careers

Recreation, Sports, and Fitness

  • Description: BCRPA is a leader in advancing recreation and parks services in British Columbia, aiming to enhance quality of life through active lifestyles. It offers career opportunities in recreation programming, park management, community development, and policy advocacy.
  • Careers Website: BCRPA Careers

  • Description: Canadian Sport Institute Pacific (CSI Pacific) is a world-class training facility dedicated to supporting high-performance athletes in British Columbia. It offers a range of career opportunities in sports science, coaching, athlete development, sports medicine, and sports administration. These positions involve providing specialized support services to athletes, coaches, and sports organizations to optimize performance and achieve athletic excellence.
  • Website: Canadian Sport Institute

  • Description: The Top Prospects Internship Program by Canucks Sports & Entertainment offers unique opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the sports and entertainment industry. Interns can work in various departments such as marketing, operations, finance, and event management, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the behind-the-scenes activities that support a major sports franchise. This program is designed to develop future leaders in the industry by immersing them in real-world projects and professional mentorship.
  • Careers Website: Top Prospects Internships

  • Description: Grouse Mountain offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities primarily in hospitality, guest services, and outdoor recreation. Roles are available in areas such as ski operations, mountain activities coordination, and culinary services. The resort also provides seasonal and year-round employment options, making it ideal for those passionate about nature and customer service.
  • Careers Website: Grouse Mountain Careers

  • Description: Mount Washington Alpine Resort on Vancouver Island is a premier destination for winter sports and summer adventures in British Columbia. The resort offers a variety of employment opportunities, including ski and snowboard instruction, lift operations, hospitality, and retail services. During the summer, opportunities expand to include roles in mountain biking operations and event management. Seasonal positions are prevalent, providing unique experiences in a vibrant mountain environment.
  • Careers Website: Mount Washington Careers

  • Description: PacificSport Vancouver Island is dedicated to enhancing sports performance and athlete development in the region. It offers career opportunities in sports administration, coaching, and athlete services, aiming to support athletes at all levels. The organization frequently offers internships and volunteer positions that provide hands-on experience in sports management and athlete support.
  • Careers Page: PacificSport Vancouver Island Careers

  • Description: Recreation Oak Bay focuses on providing high-quality recreational services to its community. It employs professionals in areas such as program coordination, facility management, and customer service. The organization also offers various roles in event planning and community outreach, providing a vibrant work environment for those interested in community development and recreational activities.
  • Careers Website: Recreation Oak Bay Careers

  • Description: The Regional District of Nanaimo offers diverse roles in managing parks, recreational programs, and community planning. It is an excellent place for careers in environmental management, recreational planning, and public engagement.
  • Careers Website: Regional District of Nanaimo Careers

  • Description: Steve Nash Fitness World and Sports Club is a leading fitness provider in British Columbia, offering a variety of roles in fitness instruction, club management, and customer service. It provides a dynamic work environment focused on health and fitness, with opportunities for career growth in personal training and health club management.
  • Careers Website: Steve Nash Fitness World Careers

  • Description: West Shore Parks and Recreation is a community-centered organization in British Columbia that offers a wide range of recreational facilities and programs. These include fitness centers, arenas, sports fields, and community spaces. Their services focus on promoting health, wellness, and an active lifestyle for all age groups in the West Shore community. The organization also provides venues for events, community gatherings, and various recreational activities. Employment opportunities at West Shore Parks and Recreation may encompass roles such as recreational program instructors, facility maintenance staff, event coordinators, customer service representatives, and administrative personnel. These roles are ideal for individuals with a passion for community engagement, health promotion, and recreational program development.
  • Website: For more information about career opportunities, visit: West Shore Parks and Recreation Careers.

  • Description: YMCA Canada is a community-focused organization providing a wide range of programs aimed at fostering growth, development, and well-being across all age groups. Known for its commitment to building strong communities, the YMCA offers services including health and fitness programs, child care, camps, community outreach, and employment services. Its programs are designed to nurture potential, promote healthy living, and foster social responsibility. Career opportunities at YMCA Canada span a diverse range of roles, including fitness and wellness instructors, child care professionals, administrative staff, program coordinators, and community outreach workers. These positions are well-suited for individuals dedicated to community development, health promotion, and social services.
  • Careers Website: YMCA of Greater Vancouver Careers