Discover the Most Popular Part-time Jobs in Canada
17 Feb 2025
Finding part-time jobs in Canada can greatly increase your income, gain valuable work experience, and build professional connections. Part-time jobs offer flexibility and diverse work options, from retail and food service to remote freelancing and customer support. Many of these roles require little to no prior experience, making them accessible to job seekers of all backgrounds. Working part-time can be a stepping stone to full-time employment, helping you develop essential skills for long-term career growth.
Whether you're a student, seeking supplemental income, or exploring new career paths, there are various popular part-time jobs in Canada to suit your needs.
Part-time Work in Canada
Canadian employment regulations establish specific guidelines for part-time workers. These requirements demand careful attention from foreign nationals seeking employment opportunities. Foreign nationals must secure proper work authorization to work in Canada legally. Canadian work permits fall into two categories: employer-specific permits and open work permits.
The employer-specific permit outlines exact working conditions, specifying the Canadian employer's name and work location. Your Canadian employer must provide a detailed employment contract before the Canadian work permit application. Maximum working hours Canadian labor standards define part-time work as employment exceeding one-third but remaining below standard full-time hours.
According to the Canadian government, weekly work hours must not surpass 24 hours. International students holding paid positions and unpaid internships with one employer face strict limitations - 10 hours daily or 48 hours weekly maximum. Special provisions allow hour extensions through excess hour permits or during emergencies.
The standard calculation method applies: full-time rate multiplied by part-time hours/full-time hours equals your prorated salary. Regular hourly rates apply when working beyond scheduled part-time hours but within standard weekly limits. Work exceeding weekly thresholds qualifies for overtime compensation. Part-time employees receive holiday premium payments rather than standard holiday pay.
Top Part-time Jobs in Canada For Different Skills
Professional skills and experience determine the most suitable part-time role. The Canadian job market features distinct opportunities across multiple sectors, including the following part-time jobs in Canada with National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and annual average salaries from Canadaâs Job Bank.
| In-demand Part-time Jobs in Canada | NOC Code | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Accounting Technician and Bookkeeper | 12200 | 74,471.66 |
| Administrative Assistant | 13110 | 69,154.80 |
| Customer Service Representative | 64409 | 59,824.72 |
| Early Childhood Educator Assistant | 42202 | 58,934.54 |
| Shipper and Receiver | 14400 | 58,096.17 |
| Home Support Worker | 44101 | 55,325.98 |
| Personal Care Aide | 44101 | 55 321,50 |
| Delivery Driver | 75201 | 52,556.92 |
| Food and Beverage Server | 65200 | 49,793.56 |
| Retail Sales Associate | 64100 | 45,648.60 |
Where to Find Part-time Work in Canada
Part-time job searches demand methodical exploration of multiple employment channels. The following resources offer reliable pathways to promising opportunities:
Online Job Boards
Digital employment platforms are primary connection points between Canadian employers and job seekers. IndeedCanada leads the market with 2,000 daily job postings. Several specialized platforms merit consideration:
- Job Bank: Canada's official employment portal featuring bilingual listings,
- Eluta: Direct access to 10,000+ employer websites,
- Glassdoor:Combined job listings and employer insights, and
- Monster Canada: Strong Canadian resume database with smart job-matching.
Campus Resources
Educational institutions excel as employment resource centers. Career offices provide targeted job boards and specialized services for enrolled students. Key features include the MyFuture Portal, the central platform for campus positions, student employment, and seasonal opportunities. Student registration unlocks exclusive listings and career development tools tailored to academic programs.
Networking Strategies
Professional relationship building is the most potent method for discovering unlisted opportunities. Strong networks create industry access while providing resume guidance. Effective networking channels include the following.
Professional Associations
Regular speaker events and online resources provide valuable opportunities for newcomers to connect with industry experts and learn about the Canadian job market. These events offer insights into industry trends, required skills, and potential career paths, helping newcomers make informed decisions about their job search. Immigrant Support Organizations further enhance networking by organizing dedicated events that connect newcomers with established professionals in their fields, facilitating mentorship and professional connections.
Social Media
LinkedIn has become the dominant platform for professional networking in Canada, allowing individuals to create detailed profiles showcasing their skills, experience, and career aspirations. This platform facilitates connections with potential Canadian employers and is a valuable resource for staying up-to-date on current industry trends, news, and job opportunities. Through LinkedIn, newcomers can build their professional network, research companies, and gain insights into the Canadian job market, all essential steps for a successful job search.
Tips for Landing Your First Job in Canada
Success in the Canadian job market demands strategic preparation beyond opportunity identification. These proven techniques will strengthen your application.
Resume Preparation
Canadian employers expect resumes that highlight measurable achievements. Your document should span one to two pages, emphasizing accomplishments over basic job duties. Essential resume components include:
- Professional contact details with the formal email address,
- Targeted career summary showcasing key qualifications,
- Achievement-focused work history,
- Academic credentials with pertinent coursework, and
- Balanced technical and interpersonal skills section.
Each application deserves a customized resume featuring relevant keywords from the job posting. This approach helps apparent Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Submit documents in Microsoft Word format (.doc or .docx) to ensure proper ATS processing.
Interview Preparation
Strong interview performance stems from careful preparation and research. Study the employer's digital presence, including website content, social platforms, and recent developments. Practice responses to standard questions while examining both resume content and position requirements. Plan to reach the interview location 15 minutes before schedule. Your interview folder should contain:
- Multiple Canadian resume copies,
- Professional references,
- Writing materials, and
- Available recommendation letters.
Submit a thank-you message post-interview to reinforce your interest. Conduct professional follow-up after two weeks without a response. Interview questions should be directed toward company values and advancement possibilities rather than compensation details.
How Can I Work in One of Canadaâs Popular Part-time Jobs?
To work in one of Canadaâs popular part-time jobs, individuals must meet specific legal requirements based on their residency status. Permanent residents can work freely without restrictions, but foreign workers must obtain proper authorization.
Canadian Work Permit
A Canadian work permit is required for most foreign nationals who want to work in Canada. There are two main types: an employer-specific work permit, which ties a worker to a particular Canadian employer, and an open work permit, which allows them to work for any employer.
International students in Canada with a valid study permit can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the school term and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) also allows graduates to gain part-time or full-time work experience in Canada.
Working Holiday Visa
The International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday Visa is another option for young individuals (typically 18â35 years old) from eligible countries. This visa allows them to work part-time or full-time while traveling in Canada for up to 24 months. It provides flexibility to work in various industries, including retail, hospitality, and customer service. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and apply through the IEC program.
FAQs
Are There Any Legal Considerations I Should Be Aware of When Working Part-time in Canada?
Yes, all workers in Canada, including part-time employees, are protected under provincial or territorial labor laws, which outline minimum wage, working hours, and workplace rights. Employers must follow fair employment practices, including providing a safe work environment and proper payment of wages. If you are an international student or temporary worker, you must ensure your Canadian work permit or visa allows you to work legally.
Can I Work Part-time While Working on a Study Permit in Canada?
Yes, international students in Canada with a valid Canadian study permit can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. They do not need a separate Canadian work permit, but their Canadian study permit must explicitly state they are allowed to work. It is important to follow these restrictions to maintain legal status in Canada.
Can Part-time Work Lead to Full-time Employment in Canada?
Yes, many Canadian employers offer full-time positions to part-time workers who demonstrate reliability, skills, and firm performance. Networking and gaining experience through a part-time job can also open doors to better career opportunities. Companies sometimes provide training and promotions to part-time employees, leading to permanent roles.
