With the massive snowfalls we saw in March, it probably seems strange to think of summer being just around the corner. But when it comes to finding work for the summer months, it’s definitely time to start looking (if you haven’t already)!
Lots of companies started hiring back in December and January. But there are still opportunities to find summer work in the great outdoors.
Here is a list of some of the job opportunities for this summer. There is a range, so whether you’re in high school, post-secondary school, or not in school at all, there are opportunities for you.
Alberta Junior Forest Rangers (JFR)
Look how much fun this former JFR is having while she learns about fire control. The Alberta Junior Forest Rangers program pays high school students to spend seven weeks during the summertime learning a variety of outdoor skills.
JFRs live in camps all over Alberta and acquire hands-on experience with fire safety, tree planting, trail construction, first-aid, and lots more. Check out the Alberta Junior Forest Rangers website for more information and to apply online. The deadline to apply is April 12. If you will be 16 – 18 years old by July 1, don’t miss out on this awesome opportunity!
Tree Planting
OK, so maybe most tree planters don’t dance while they plant trees, but spending a summer as a tree planter will provide you with a unique and ‘wild’ experience. If you aren’t afraid to get a little (or a lot) dirty, and if encounters with wildlife don’t scare you, you can make some serious cash and develop rippling abs while planting thousands of trees. Think about it; your bank account will grow and you’ll get really fit, all while contributing to the sustainability of our forests. Check out Tree-Planter to find out which companies are now hiring planters.
Forest Management Labourers
While the majority of logging happens in the winter months, there is still work to be done in the bush in the summertime such as thinning, cone collection, and brush control. If your ideal summer would allow you to spend your days in the wild, have a look at Find a Forestry Job to see a long list of forest labour jobs.
Sawmill and pulp mill Labourers
Sawmills and pulp mills often hire summer labourers to relieve the full-time staff who take vacation time during the summer months. If you’re not deterred by physical work, and you want to start at a good hourly wage, check out our Job Postings page to see which mills in Alberta are hiring summer staff.
Environmental Sciences
Are you passionate about preserving our wildlife and environment? Each year, there are lots of summer employment opportunities for people studying environmental sciences (or thinking about it). Check out The Greenest Workforce to learn about paid Green Dream Internships in Alberta, British Columbia, and Quebec. Also, have a look at our Job Postings page regularly, as companies often begin posting summer jobs for Environmental Science students in early Winter.
There is plenty of money to be made and fun to be had if you’re thinking of spending your summer working wild. For a full list of AFPA (Alberta Forest Products Association) companies, contact me. I can put you in touch with the people who take care of hiring in places all over Alberta.