Jayme Marteniuk – Economics and Business Editor

Every spring, students update their CVs, refresh their LinkedIn profiles and begin the annual search for summer employment. For many, summer jobs are for more than just spending money. They help cover tuition, rent and living expenses while also building experience for future careers. But this year, landing a summer job feels harder than ever.

Image courtesy of Gabrielle Lalonde

The numbers support that feeling. According to Statistics Canada, the unemployment rate for youths aged 15 to 24 reached 14.7 per cent in September 2025, significantly higher than the national average. More notably, the unemployment rate for students returning to school after the summer was roughly 17.9 per cent, one of the highest rates recorded outside of the pandemic period. These figures reflect a tightening labour market that is disproportionately affecting young workers.

Part of the issue is simple supply and demand. Recent reporting shows that summer job postings in Canada declined sharply compared to the previous year, particularly in sectors that traditionally hire students, such as hospitality, recreation and retail. At the same time, the youth population has grown, meaning more students are competing for fewer roles. For many applicants, this has translated into sending out dozens of applications with little to no response.

“Since January, I’ve applied to over 30 jobs and only heard back from one,” says Sara Scafuro, a fourth-year student at Bishop’s University. “It feels like everyone is hiring, but no one is actually hiring students.”

Another factor is the changing nature of entry-level work. Employers are increasingly turning to automation and digital tools to handle routine administrative or customer service tasks. While artificial intelligence is often discussed in the context of corporate jobs, it is also reducing the number of basic, hourly roles that once served as stepping stones for students. At the same time, many job postings now require prior experience, creating a frustrating paradox for first-time job seekers.

Economic uncertainty may also be playing a role. With higher interest rates over the past two years and cautious consumer spending, some businesses have slowed hiring or reduced seasonal staff. For employers, bringing on fewer workers can be a way to manage costs during uncertain periods. Unfortunately, students are often the first to feel the impact.

Despite the challenges, career advisors suggest that students are not powerless in this market. Applying early is increasingly important, as many companies begin recruiting months before summer begins. Demonstrating transferable skills such as leadership from campus clubs, volunteer work or group projects can also help candidates stand out. Networking remains one of the most effective tools; referrals from professors, alumni or community connections can significantly increase the likelihood of securing an interview. Some students are also broadening their search beyond traditional job boards by reaching out directly to local businesses.

The reality is clear: this is not just a matter of individual effort. Structural shifts in the labour market are making summer employment more competitive for students across the country. However, understanding these trends can help students adapt. In a tighter job market, preparation, persistence and differentiation matter more than ever.