Written by Courtney Monhan, Youth Employment Counsellor
Welcome back fall! Welcome back to cool sweater weather, pumpkin spice lattes, colourful leaves and soup season. Autumn has always been my favourite season, and it's also one of the best hiring seasons for youth looking for work.
If you're searching for a job this fall, now's the perfect time to start applying. Many employers begin hiring months before their busiest seasons to ensure they have enough time to interview, onboard and train new staff. The earlier you apply, the more opportunities you'll have to choose from.
Why now is great time to look for work
As students head back to school and the weather cools down, Calgary comes alive with seasonal events, holiday activities and increased retail demand. Businesses are looking for enthusiastic employees to help them prepare for busy fall and winter seasons.
Don't wait until Christmas!
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is waiting until the holidays to start applying for seasonal work.
By the time Christmas arrives, many employers have already completed their hiring and training. Seasonal hiring typically begins months in advance, and the best opportunities often fill quickly.
If you're interested in retail jobs, mall positions, customer service roles or seasonal event work, start applying now. Shopping centres and retailers across Calgary begin preparing for the holiday rush well before winter arrives.
Here are a few youth friendly opportunities to consider:
ScreamFest Calgary
Do you love Halloween, haunted attractions and all things spooky? ScreamFest Calgary is hiring for the season now! This is a fun and unique opportunity to gain customer service experience while working in a fast-paced event environment.
Farmers' markets and grocery stores
Fall weather means cozy meals, fresh seasonal vegetables, delicious baked goods and holiday gatherings with family and friends. Farmers' markets and grocery stores often increase hiring during this busy season.
Working at a market or grocery store can be an excellent first job. You'll gain valuable skills such as customer service, teamwork, communication, and cash handling. Consider applying online, visiting local markets in person or speaking directly with vendors about opportunities.
If you are interested in working at a market, tailor your resume to the job posting and consider applying to vendors in person.
Heritage Park
Many of Calgary's favourite fall events take place at Heritage Park. Throughout September and October, the park offers attractions such as outdoor escape rooms, seasonal markets, special events and the popular Christmas train.
These events require dedicated staff to help create memorable experiences for visitors. If you're interested in customer service, tourism, recreation or event operations, Heritage Park may have a role for you.
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
ZOOLIGHTS, presented by the Olympia Trust Company, is a cherished holiday tradition for many Calgary families. As the holiday season approaches, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo hires seasonal team members to help support this exciting event. Visit their website and connect with the Youth Employment Centre by September 25, 2026, for the potential to participate in this year's exclusive Hiring Event.
Need help with your job search?
Finding a job can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. The Youth Employment Centre can help you:
- Create or improve your resume
- Develop cover letters
- Practice interview skills
- Search for job opportunities
- Explore career options
- Prepare for seasonal hiring
Seasonal positions can be a great way to gain work experience, build your resume and develop professional skills. Talk to an Employment Counsellor at the Youth Employment Centre to learn more about preparing a strong application and resume.
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The City of Calgary Youth Employment Centre (YEC) provides free, in-person drop-in employment services for youth ages 15-24. We offer resume targeting, job search strategies, interview preparation, career planning, connections to employers who are hiring and more.
Visit the YEC for drop-in employment services.
Meet one on one with an Employment Counsellor for personalized support. No appointment needed.
Drop-in hours: calgary.ca/yec
Location: Alberta Trade Centre, 2nd floor, 315 10 Ave. SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 0W2
Contact us: 403-268-2490