Administrative Assistant (FSWEP)

Are you a student looking to gain valuable government work experience? The Administrative Assistant (FSWEP) position is your chance to build real-world skills, grow your career, and make a difference in the public sector.

Through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP), students across Canada can apply for exciting roles that match their field of study and interests. As an Administrative Assistant (FSWEP), you’ll support day-to-day office operations and help government departments run smoothly. If you’re detail-oriented, organized, and ready to learn, this role is a great opportunity to start your career in the federal public service.

Job Title: Administrative Assistant (FSWEP)

Location: Various locations across Canada
Employment Type: Full-time or part-time, Temporary (student work placement)
Salary Range: $16.84 to $34.59 per hour (depending on level of study and location)

Job Overview

The Administrative Assistant (FSWEP) plays a key role in supporting internal teams by handling administrative tasks, organizing records, and communicating with team members and the public. This position is ideal for students enrolled in college or university who are looking to gain relevant work experience in an office environment.

Your work will directly support federal programs and services that impact Canadians across the country.

Key Responsibilities

As an Administrative Assistant under the FSWEP, your tasks may include:

• General Office Support: Organize, file, and maintain records (both paper and digital). Ensure documents are properly labeled and accessible.

• Data Entry and Document Management: Accurately input and update data in internal databases and spreadsheets.

• Reception Duties: Greet visitors, answer phones, take messages, and respond to routine inquiries.

• Scheduling and Calendar Management: Help book meetings, reserve rooms, and send calendar invites.

• Correspondence: Prepare emails, letters, and other official communications for review or distribution.

• Team Assistance: Provide clerical support to staff in various departments, such as Human Resources, Finance, or Communications.

• Meeting Preparation: Help prepare documents and materials for meetings or presentations.

• Supplies and Inventory: Track office supplies, place orders when needed, and organize storage areas.

• Confidentiality: Handle sensitive information with care and respect privacy guidelines.

These responsibilities can vary depending on the department or agency you are placed in. However, all tasks aim to help students gain professional experience and understand how the federal government operates.

Why Apply for an Administrative Assistant (FSWEP) Job?

The FSWEP Administrative Assistant position is more than just a student job – it’s your gateway to a future career in the public service. Here’s what you gain:

1. Paid Government Work Experience

Earn a competitive hourly wage while gaining meaningful experience in a federal workplace. FSWEP is one of the best ways to start building your resume with trusted government experience.

2. Flexible Work Locations

Opportunities are available across Canada. You may also find hybrid or remote options, depending on the department.

3. Skill Development

Learn valuable administrative and communication skills you can apply in any career. Improve your time management, organization, and teamwork abilities.

4. Career Networking

Work alongside professionals who can mentor you and help shape your career path in the federal public service.

5. Resume Booster

Stand out from other students by having federal government experience on your resume. Many students go on to apply for full-time federal jobs after graduation.

6. Meaningful Work

Contribute to programs that support Canadians. Your work matters, and you’ll see the real-world impact of your contributions.

Required Qualifications

To be eligible for the Administrative Assistant (FSWEP) role, you must meet the following:

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be registered as a full-time secondary or post-secondary student in an accredited institution.

• Be returning to full-time studies in the next academic term.

• Be legally entitled to work in Canada (Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee status).

• Meet the age requirement in your province or territory.

Education:

• Currently enrolled in high school, college, CEGEP, or university.

• Fields of study such as Business Administration, Office Administration, Communications, or similar are considered assets.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong communication skills – written and verbal.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and document handling.

• Teamwork and collaboration in a professional setting.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Organized and self-motivated with a positive attitude.

Assets (Not Required):

• Bilingualism (English and French).

• Experience with administrative or clerical tasks.

• Previous volunteer or part-time work in an office environment.

Work Environment

As an Administrative Assistant through FSWEP, you’ll work in a structured and supportive environment. You may work in-person, remotely, or in a hybrid setting depending on the department’s needs. Expect to be part of a team that values inclusivity, respect, and service to Canadians.

The federal government promotes a healthy workplace with a focus on diversity and inclusion. Students of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including Indigenous students, visible minorities, students with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ students.

How to Apply for FSWEP Positions

To apply for the Administrative Assistant (FSWEP) job:

1. Create or update your FSWEP profile on the Government of Canada’s jobs website.

2. Submit your resume and answer screening questions.

3. Select “Administrative Assistant” or “Clerical Work” under your job interests.

4. Wait to be contacted – federal departments hire students year-round, so keep your profile up to date.

Tip: Highlight your organizational and communication skills in your resume. Include any volunteer work or school projects that show you can manage tasks in an office setting.

Final Thoughts

The Administrative Assistant (FSWEP) role is a smart first step for students eager to work in Canada’s federal government. It offers practical experience, professional growth, and a pathway to future opportunities. Whether you’re studying business, social sciences, or another field, this position will teach you how government offices operate and prepare you for life after graduation.

Apply today and take the first step toward your career in public service.