Student and Youth Jobs at Parks Canada – A Complete Guide

If you’re a student or young Canadian looking for meaningful work that lets you connect with nature, meet new people, and gain hands-on experience, Parks Canada has incredible job opportunities waiting for you. From national parks to historic sites, the agency hires hundreds of students and youth every year for seasonal, summer, and part-time work.

Parks Canada offers a wide range of positions that can help you earn money, grow your skills, and contribute to protecting Canada’s natural and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a high school student, university student, or a recent graduate, working with Parks Canada can be a rewarding and memorable experience.

This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about student and youth jobs at Parks Canada—types of roles, key responsibilities, skills needed, application tips, and more.

About Parks Canada

Parks Canada is the federal agency responsible for preserving and managing national parks, marine conservation areas, and national historic sites across the country. With 37 national parks and 11 national park reserves, Canada offers some of the most scenic, diverse, and culturally rich protected areas in the world.

The organization’s mission is to help people connect with these natural and historic places while protecting their ecological and cultural integrity. Parks Canada also creates job opportunities for youth through seasonal and student employment programs, which are a fantastic way to gain valuable experience while exploring Canada’s beautiful landscapes.

Types of Student Jobs at Parks Canada

Student jobs at Parks Canada vary by location and time of year. Some are seasonal summer jobs, while others may be part-time or year-round depending on the site’s operations. Here’s a closer look at the most popular roles available for youth and students:

1. Park Communicator

What They Do:
Park Communicators serve as front-line staff who greet visitors, provide information about park services and safety, and help guests feel welcome. They also handle entrance fees and use point-of-sale systems to process payments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Greet park visitors and offer orientation
• Share information about facilities, programs, and regulations
• Collect admission fees and issue permits
• Complete sales deposits and maintain accurate records

Skills Required:

• Friendly and approachable
• Basic computer skills
• Bilingual in English and French (required for many locations)

Ideal For:
Students who enjoy talking to people, solving problems, and sharing their passion for nature and heritage.

2. Janitorial Student

What They Do:
Janitorial Students are part of the Visitor Experience Team and ensure park facilities are clean, safe, and welcoming. Their work includes both indoor and outdoor duties such as cleaning restrooms, picking up litter, and cutting grass.

Key Responsibilities:

• Clean washrooms, common areas, and visitor centers
• Stack wood in campgrounds and pick up garbage
• Mow lawns and maintain picnic areas
• Help with light maintenance tasks as needed

Skills Required:

• Ability to work well in a team
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors
• English communication skills

Ideal For:
Youth who prefer active, hands-on work in a supportive, team-based setting.

3. Heritage Communicator

What They Do:
Heritage Communicators deliver fun, educational programs and presentations at historic sites and parks. They engage visitors with storytelling, demonstrations, and guided tours to enhance their understanding of Canada’s history and environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver interactive programs and interpretive tours
• Answer visitor questions and explain site features
• Use props, stories, and creative tools to engage audiences
• Contribute ideas for new programs or events

Skills Required:

• Public speaking and communication
• Creative thinking and storytelling
• Bilingualism (English and French)

Ideal For:
Students interested in education, history, drama, tourism, or communications.

4. “Anne of Green Gables” Interpreter

What They Do:
The Anne-Imitator brings the beloved character Anne Shirley to life at Green Gables Heritage Place. Dressed in costume, you’ll pose for photos, engage in old-fashioned games, and participate in fun, interactive experiences with park visitors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Portray Anne of Green Gables in full costume
• Interact with visitors through storytelling and activities
• Participate in traditional games, races, or ice cream making
• Stay in character while delivering a warm, memorable experience

Skills Required:

• Acting or performance ability
• Strong communication skills
• Teamwork and energy
• Bilingualism (English and French)

Ideal For:
Performing arts students or anyone who enjoys drama, literature, and connecting with people through character work.

Conditions of Employment

To qualify for student or youth jobs at Parks Canada, candidates must meet a few essential requirements:

Basic Requirements:

• Be enrolled in a full-time secondary or post-secondary educational program
• Be returning to school after the work term ends
• Hold a valid Class 5 Driver’s License (for janitorial roles)
• Have valid Emergency First Aid/CPR certification

Operational Expectations:

• Willingness to wear a uniform or costume
• Flexible availability (evenings, weekends, holidays)
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions

Note: These positions do not include housing or transportation, so applicants must arrange these on their own.

Benefits of Working at Parks Canada

Working with Parks Canada provides far more than a paycheck. Students and youth gain professional skills, outdoor experiences, and lifelong memories. Here are just a few reasons to consider applying:

Connect with Nature

Spend your summer in forests, beaches, campgrounds, or historic sites while getting paid.

Build Your Resume

Gain experience in communication, teamwork, interpretation, and customer service—skills that are valuable in any future career.

Make New Friends

Meet people from across Canada and work with a supportive team in a welcoming, respectful environment.

Contribute to Something Meaningful

Help protect Canada’s national treasures while enhancing the visitor experience for thousands of guests.

How to Apply for Student Jobs at Parks Canada

There are several ways to apply for student and youth jobs at Parks Canada:

By Email

You can request and submit an application to:
rhipe-peihr@pc.gc.ca

In Person

Pick up and return a paper application at the local Parks Canada office at:
2 Palmers Lane, Charlottetown, PEI

Online

Visit the Parks Canada Careers website and check the “Jobs” section for up-to-date postings.

Tip: Apply early, as many positions are posted in winter or early spring and fill up quickly.

Application Tips to Increase Your Chances

To stand out during the hiring process, here are a few key strategies:

Customize Your Resume

Tailor your resume to the role—emphasize relevant experience such as customer service, public speaking, outdoor activities, or cleaning.

Write a Strong Cover Letter

Show your enthusiasm for Parks Canada’s mission. Talk about your passion for nature, interest in history, or desire to work with the public.

Highlight Language Skills

Many roles require bilingualism. If you speak both English and French, be sure to emphasize this skill.

Mention Availability

Make it clear that you’re open to working evenings, weekends, and holidays—this flexibility is often required.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are all student jobs bilingual?

Not all roles require French. Positions like janitorial work are English-only, but many visitor-facing roles like Park Communicator or Heritage Interpreter require bilingualism in English and French.

2. Can international students apply?

Yes, international students who are legally permitted to work in Canada and are enrolled in an eligible program can apply.

3. Are these jobs full-time or part-time?

Most student jobs are full-time seasonal roles that run during the summer months, but some may offer part-time or year-round opportunities depending on the site.

4. Is housing provided?

No. Housing and transportation are not included in Parks Canada employment. Students must secure their own accommodations.

5. When should I start applying?

Start looking for positions in the winter or early spring, as applications are reviewed and roles filled ahead of the summer season.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Parks Canada Journey Today

Student and youth jobs with Parks Canada are a fantastic opportunity to combine meaningful work, skill development, and nature. Whether you’re guiding guests, sharing stories from Canada’s past, keeping parks clean, or portraying Anne of Green Gables, there’s a position suited to your interests and strengths.

These roles aren’t just jobs—they’re experiences that shape your future, enrich your resume, and connect you to Canada’s most beautiful places.

So if you’re ready to make the most of your next summer and contribute to something bigger, apply for a student job with Parks Canada. Get outside, get inspired, and get involved.