Inuvik is more than just a northern town—it is a hub for education, workforce development, and career opportunities in the Western Arctic. With a strong emphasis on Indigenous culture, trades, government services, and Arctic research, the town offers a unique blend of academic and professional paths. Whether you're looking to pursue education, start a career, or expand your business, Inuvik provides a range of opportunities tailored to life in the North.
Education in Inuvik follows the Northwest Territories' territorial curriculum, incorporating Gwich’in and Inuvialuit cultural learning, outdoor education, and Arctic-based research opportunities. The town is home to elementary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions, providing students with access to academic and vocational training tailored to northern living.
Inuvik has three main schools, serving students from kindergarten to Grade 12:
East Three Elementary School – Serving students from K to Grade 6, this school provides foundational education with a focus on language, culture, and early literacy.
East Three Secondary School – Offering education from Grade 7 to 12, the school integrates standard curriculum with Indigenous studies, technology training, and outdoor education.
Chief Julius School (Aklavik) – While located outside Inuvik in nearby Aklavik, this school serves students from surrounding communities, often connecting with Inuvik for collaborative learning initiatives.
East Three Secondary School also offers French immersion, Indigenous language programs, and on-the-land learning opportunities, reflecting the town’s diverse cultural heritage.
For students looking to continue their education beyond high school, Aurora College – Inuvik Campus is the primary institution for post-secondary programs, skilled trades, and adult education.
Aurora College offers programs that focus on northern careers and workforce demands, including:
Environment & Natural Resources Technology – Preparing students for careers in Arctic research, conservation, and environmental monitoring.
Business Administration – Providing skills in finance, management, and entrepreneurship.
Practical Nursing & Health Sciences – Training healthcare professionals for work in remote northern settings.
Trades & Apprenticeships – Offering hands-on training in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and mechanics, supporting skilled labor needs in the North.
Adult Basic Education & Upgrading – Assisting students in completing high school equivalency or upgrading skills for workforce entry.
The college also collaborates with Indigenous organizations and local businesses to provide work placements, internships, and research projects, ensuring students gain practical experience in northern industries.
Inuvik is home to Gwich’in and Inuvialuit learning initiatives, helping to preserve language, history, and traditional knowledge. Programs include language immersion courses, traditional hunting and fishing workshops, and Indigenous governance training, often offered through Aurora College and local Indigenous cultural centers.
The Inuvialuit Cultural Resource Centre and the Gwich’in Tribal Council also provide community-based education in land stewardship, traditional arts, and Indigenous law.
As the economic and administrative center of the Western Arctic, Inuvik offers diverse employment opportunities across government, trades, education, healthcare, tourism, and Arctic research. With the expansion of infrastructure projects, renewable energy initiatives, and environmental monitoring, Inuvik is a place where skilled professionals, tradespeople, and entrepreneurs can thrive.
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and the Town of Inuvik are among the largest employers, offering careers in education, municipal services, healthcare, and Indigenous relations. Federal agencies such as Parks Canada and the RCMP also provide stable job opportunities in the region.
Inuvik has an ongoing demand for skilled trades, particularly in housing construction, road maintenance, and utilities. With permafrost conditions and extreme weather, specialized tradespeople in plumbing, electrical work, welding, and heavy equipment operation are highly valued.
Training opportunities through Aurora College and apprenticeships with local companies provide pathways for young workers to enter the trades sector.
The Inuvik Regional Hospital serves as the primary healthcare facility for the Western Arctic, employing nurses, physicians, medical technicians, and administrative staff. There is also demand for mental health counselors, social workers, and community support specialists.
With increasing interest in Arctic travel, Inuvik’s tourism and hospitality industry continues to grow. Jobs in this sector include hotel management, guiding services, customer service, and marketing. Tourism businesses focusing on the Aurora Borealis, cultural experiences, and Arctic expeditions offer seasonal and year-round employment.
Inuvik is home to multiple Arctic research stations and renewable energy projects, creating opportunities for scientists, engineers, and technicians. The town has become a hub for research into climate change, permafrost studies, and sustainable energy solutions, with international organizations collaborating on northern-focused projects.
For those looking to start a business, Inuvik provides resources through the Western Arctic Business Development Corporation (WABDC), which offers funding, training, and mentorship for new ventures. Opportunities exist in retail, logistics, tourism, and trades, with support available for Indigenous-owned businesses.
Job seekers in Inuvik can explore employment opportunities through:
Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) Jobs Portal – Offers listings for public sector roles.
Aurora College Career Services – Provides job placements and networking for students and graduates.
Inuvik Chamber of Commerce – Connects local businesses with job seekers.
Job Bank Canada & Online Listings – Federal job search tools featuring northern opportunities.
For career development, workshops and training programs are available through the GNWT Employment & Labour Services, offering skills upgrading, resume assistance, and job-matching services.
Working in Inuvik is about more than just a paycheck—it’s about being part of a community that values culture, resilience, and innovation. Whether you’re teaching in a local school, building infrastructure for the Arctic, or guiding visitors under the Northern Lights, employment in Inuvik offers opportunities for adventure, stability, and meaningful work.
With a growing demand for skilled workers, educators, healthcare professionals, and entrepreneurs, Inuvik is an ideal destination for those looking to make an impact in the North. The town’s education system, training programs, and career resources provide the support needed to build a future in the Arctic.
