Taking on a full-time or part-time student job while you are still in school gives you income and experience on the job market. It is also an excellent way to develop skills and establish professional contacts. In Québec, with some exceptions, you can start working at the age of 14.
Organizing your job search
To increase your chances of quickly finding a summer job that matches your criteria, you need to be well prepared before you start applying.
Before you begin your job search, it is important to identify
- your strengths and your skills
- the area of employment that interests you
- your criteria (salary, remote working, etc.)
- desired schedule (full-time or part-time).
You'll need a résumé and a cover letter. In some cases, a portfolio will be required. To find out how to write these documents, see the Job Search Tips Section.
Support for people with disabilities
If you are a student with a disability, you may be eligible for support to help you find a job related to your field of study through the
Find out about training requirements
It is important to find out about training requirements as soon as you start looking for a student summer job. Some jobs require training or certification before you begin, such as:
- first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, including the use of an automated external defibrillator
- a National Lifeguard certificate
These training courses often need to be completed a few months before you start your job. You have to consider the registration periods for these courses and the training time involved to ensure you meet all the prerequisites before starting your summer job.
Top summer jobs for students
Many jobs are traditionally filled by students during the summer because they are seasonal. The minimum age to start working is 14, but there are some exceptions. To learn about these exceptions, please see
Check out the job profiles below to learn more about the duties, working conditions, training requirements and wages:
- Day camp counsellor;
- Outdoor activity guide;
- Lifeguard (swimming);
- Referee (soccer, softball and baseball);
- Construction helper or labourer;
- Forklift truck operator, etc.
Finding out about trades and occupations
To learn about job prospects, wages, and job descriptions relating to a given trade or occupation, see the Explore trades or occupations page.
If you would like to find out about jobs that match your skills and passions, and that also offer excellent job prospects, visit the Discover jobs with a promising future page.
Applying for a job through Québec emploi
The Québec emploi website is the Québec government's job site. This tool can help you find a job or paid internship in a private company or organization.
On this platform, you can
- submit your application to employers
- search job listings
- apply online for student jobs and internships
- create your profile to see available jobs or internships that match your search criteria.
To access the list of student jobs, visit the Québec emploi website and filter your search by type of offer.
Note: Remember to reactivate your file every year.
Applying for an internship or student position in public service
Student jobs and internships in the public service are posted on the
Balancing school and work
Your work schedule must follow certain rules so it does not interfere with your success or academic perseverance. These rules depend on your age. For more information, please see
Working in a healthy and safe workplace
You are protected in the event of a work accident or occupational disease, even if you have a student job. Your employer is required to provide you with safe and healthy working conditions, both for your physical and psychological health.
Your employer must provide you, free of charge, with:·
- the information, training and supervision required to carry out your duties safely·
- the personal protective equipment required, such as safety glasses, gloves or a vest.
Help
If you have any concerns about your safety, talk to your employer, the health and safety liaison officer or the health and safety representative at your workplace.
Last update: June 10, 2026