Jump Start Your Summer Job Search

Written by Raymond Koyo, Youth Employment Counsellor

In today’s competitive environment, starting your job search for summer positions now can be advantageous. This blog will highlight key summer sectors that require limited experience and training. 

Additionally, we will explore certifications that can significantly boost employability and set you apart from other job seekers. Start exploring opportunities in retail, food and beverage, recreation, rec and entertainment early.

Retail Industry

While some roles in retail can be independent, individuals seeking these positions should enjoy interacting with customers daily. Key frontline positions in this industry include cashier, sales associate, stock clerk, warehouse worker, team leader, or key holder. Employers typically provide training once you are hired, but experience in the sector is always an asset.

Recreation and Entertainment

If you love helping people, sports, and having fun, this might be a great summer career path to explore. Entry-level positions for youth in this field include summer camp counselor, lifeguards, junior recreation leader, and after-school program facilitator. Most companies in this sector require certifications such as Food Safety Training, and First Aid and CPR.

Important Certifications in Recreation and Entertainment:

• First Aid and CPR: This training equips individuals with essential skills to respond to emergencies such as injuries, choking incidents, or cardiac emergencies. It’s valuable for everyone but especially important for those working with vulnerable groups.

• Food Safety Training: If you’re handling food, food safety training is required. This certification ensures safe food handling and contamination prevention.
  
  

Food and Beverage

The food and beverage sector offers abundant opportunities, especially for those entering the workforce. My first real job was flipping burgers at McDonald's!

Key Certifications for the Food and Beverage Industry:

• Food Safety Training: Highly recommended for those working in food and beverages.

• Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS): WHMIS outlines the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials in the workplace. This training is valuable in any work environment, including home settings, and covers how to safely manage common chemicals.

• ProServe: In Alberta, alcohol service is regulated by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis (AGLC). ProServe training teaches workers (18 years and older) how to handle and serve alcohol safely, ensuring compliance with AGLC policies. This certification is required for most jobs in venues that serve alcohol, including grocery stores, restaurants, bars, casinos, and clubs.

Next Steps?

Once you are ready to start your job search, here are a few steps to take:

1. Identify your interests and target sectors: Reflect on which industries appeal to you and align with your skills.
   
   
2. Search for jobs: Look for job postings in your chosen fields.
   
   
3. Create a targeted resume: Customize your resume to match the specific job you are applying for.
   
   
4. Set Smart Job Search Goals: Setting goals allows you to be able to measure your job search effectiveness. Please read up our blog on effective goal setting.
   
   
5. Apply: Submit your application and follow up as needed.

Need help with resumes, job searches, or career planning? Visit the Youth Employment Centre to meet with a counselor and discuss your employment goals. Your YEC counsellor will guide you through the process.