For students in Canada looking to gain valuable work experience and earn competitive wages, there’s never been a better time to apply for a federal job. Many students don’t realize just how accessible and lucrative some of these government positions can be. Right now, the Canadian government is actively hiring students across the country, with some roles offering up to $38 per hour. These student jobs span numerous departments, from environmental services to communications and administrative support, opening doors to a world of opportunity.
In a time when the cost of living is climbing and student debt is a major concern, these high-paying student opportunities not only offer practical work experience but also much-needed financial relief. With roles available from coast to coast and across various educational backgrounds, students have a wide array of options to choose from. Whether you’re studying political science, engineering, computer science, or the arts, there could be a position perfectly aligned with your skills and goals.
Student job program overview
| Program | Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | Full-time Canadian students in secondary or post-secondary institutions |
| Job types | Administrative support, engineering, IT, communications, research, and more |
| Pay range | $16 to $38 per hour depending on role and department |
| Locations | Nationwide (remote and in-person roles available) |
| Duration | Various terms; part-time and full-time, seasonal or year-round |
What changed this year
While the FSWEP program has been around for decades, 2024 has brought an expansion in both the scope and pay scale of student job offerings. Departments across the federal government are stepping up recruitment efforts to support a more diverse range of skills and backgrounds. This year, more positions are offering higher pay rates, going up to $38 per hour for specialized roles such as engineering students, data analysts, and software developers.
There is also an increased focus on remote and hybrid roles, making federal student employment more accessible to those who live outside major urban areas. This opens the door for students in rural communities or those balancing family obligations to apply for government jobs without relocating.
We’re working hard to make sure students have access to high-quality, meaningful work experiences. These jobs build real-world skills while helping the government connect with new talent.
— Claudia Tremblay, Senior HR Advisor, Government of Canada (placeholder)
Why these jobs matter for your future career
Federal student positions are more than just a paycheck — they’re stepping stones. Many students who gain experience through programs like FSWEP later transition into full-time government roles after graduation. Holding a federal student position adds significant weight to a resume and demonstrates not only technical ability but also a sense of civic responsibility and professionalism.
Additionally, the work environments often offer mentorship opportunities, exposure to key government operations, and learning experiences difficult to find elsewhere. These student roles also usually come with structured oversight, which helps students develop soft skills like communication, punctuality, and teamwork — all key to career advancement in any field.
Who qualifies and why it matters
To be eligible, applicants must be registered as full-time students in a secondary or post-secondary school at the time of application. They must also be planning to return to school full-time in the next academic term. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are given preference, and bilingualism is considered an asset for some roles but not a requirement for all.
This kind of inclusive structure provides an opportunity for students from all over the country, including those from underrepresented or marginalized communities. With an emphasis on equity and accessibility in hiring, the government aims to level the playing field by creating gateways into public service for all students willing to contribute.
We want students to see that there’s a place for them in government, regardless of their background. These programs are designed to reflect the diversity of our country.
— Lisa Ford, Director of Staffing Policy, Treasury Board Secretariat (placeholder)
Roles available now across Canada
Some of the most sought-after openings currently include positions in:
- Environmental science — field work, lab testing, climate data analysis
- Communications — writing press releases, managing social media, media monitoring
- Computer science and data — software development, cybersecurity, data analysis
- Administrative roles — clerical support, documentation, call center work
- Engineering — planning, infrastructure report analysis, field surveys
These roles are offered by diverse government agencies ranging from Environment and Climate Change Canada to the Department of National Defence, Indigenous Services Canada, and the Public Health Agency.
How to apply step-by-step
Applying to these opportunities through the federal portal is relatively straightforward. Here’s a general process students can follow:
- Visit the FSWEP application portal through the Government of Canada job site.
- Create a personalized job account and profile.
- Upload your resume, school transcripts, and any relevant documents.
- Select your interests, preferred work locations, and availability dates.
- Wait for matching opportunities — departments will reach out periodically throughout the year.
It’s worth noting that once students apply to the general inventory, they can be considered for multiple positions automatically without needing to apply individually for each one. To stand out, applicants should tailor their resumes to highlight specific school projects, volunteer work, or technical software they’ve used that align with government needs.
Tailor your resume. List specific software skills or bilingual capabilities. Don’t undersell school projects — they show initiative and real-world application.
— Jordan Maisonneuve, Campus Recruiter, Federal Services (placeholder)
Winners and losers of this push for student hiring
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Students needing flexible work experience and income | Private employers struggling to match government pay rates |
| Students in rural or remote communities (thanks to remote roles) | Students not checking the portal regularly (missing offers) |
| Diverse applicants seeking equitable government access | Students unaware of FSWEP or late to apply |
Why acting now is key
The talent pool moves quickly, and although applications are ongoing, many departments start hiring as early as January and fill popular roles by spring. Early applicants have the advantage of being seen first and having access to the bulk of opportunities. Even if you’re not looking for work until summer or fall, applying today keeps you in the system as new jobs are posted throughout the year.
This is a unique time for students to gain exposure to competitive employment and make meaningful contributions to public service. With Canada’s focus on rebuilding and modernizing post-pandemic institutions, fresh ideas and energetic talent are more welcome than ever.
Short FAQs about the Government of Canada’s student jobs
Who is eligible to apply to FSWEP?
You must be a full-time secondary or post-secondary student, returning to school in your next semester, and legally eligible to work in Canada.
What is the pay range for student jobs?
Current student job wages range from $16 to $38 per hour, depending on the complexity and level of specialization of the role.
Are there remote jobs available?
Yes. Many departments now offer hybrid and fully remote options to accommodate students from across the country.
How long do positions last?
It depends on the role. Some are short-term summer jobs, while others can span multiple semesters with the possibility of extension.
What departments are hiring right now?
Departments such as Environment and Climate Change, Public Works, National Defence, and Indigenous Services are among those actively recruiting.
Do I need previous work experience to apply?
No. These roles are designed for students and value educational background, interests, and potential just as much as work history.