At U of T, where a codependent relationship with school work already takes up 90% of our lives, it can be exceedingly overwhelming to be told you need to get a part time job. The job market in Toronto can seem just as, if not more, daunting than that heavy course load, especially if you have never had to apply to a job before. This is something I am all too familiar with. Having spent the winter, spring and summer during and after my first year relentlessly applying to jobs (a slushy March was spent scouring the internet for postings, April showers were hidden from while drafting cover letters in the library and air conditioned car rides in June were relished while commuting to interviews), I finally secured 2 part time gigs to work in the fall. While I still have these jobs a year later and am exceedingly grateful to be in this position, finding a job in Toronto can be tremendously difficult.
According to a report by TD economics, youth unemployment rates across Canada hit 12.6% in July of 2026. While this may not be as high as the 14% unemployment rate reported last year, it is still very high for youth unemployment. Once AI and changing workplace models are added into the mix, entry level positions and positions requiring more menial tasks seem to be becoming even less available to students and youth across the city. This may not be the best consolation for young people struggling to find part time work, but it does prove that the lack of student jobs in the city is a larger scale issue. In other words – it’s maybe not entirely your fault!
While I am not a professional, I can give some of my own advice on how I found part time work in the city that seems to have it all – except student jobs.
- Apply for part time jobs you are genuinely interested in
While this may seem unrealistic finding something that you are passionate about definitely helps you enjoy the interviewing process and even the job a lot more! It can also be easier to narrow down your options and search for something online if you know what you like and are looking for in a job. If you’re interested in the arts, look into music and theatre venues around Toronto (we have a lot) to see if they’re hiring. More into books and music? Try libraries, independent bookstores and record stores (not just indigo!). Passion is important – and if there is anything I have learnt from my job search it is to check individual websites! Postings are not always on Indeed.
- U of T’s CLNX
If you are a U of T student – clnx can become your best friend! There are various on and off campus job postings as well as volunteer positions posted here for U of T students and alumni. Clnx is where you can apply for work study positions as well which can give you valuable research experience. Clnx also allows you to sign up for Job Shadowing opportunities, attend workshops and much more.
- Check Young Canada Works
I am sure a majority of students are already familiar with the Young Canada works program but this allows you to apply for various internship opportunities across Canada. Fair warning, this is not limited to Toronto or even Ontario, make sure you check the location and commute time before applying!
- Volunteer
Even if you can’t find part time work right now – volunteering is a really great way to gain experience and also help out in your community. You can even look for volunteering opportunities in an industry you’re interested in to figure out if this career path is actually what you want to and wherever you volunteer i promise they will also sincerely appreciate it!
Overall trying to apply to every job you see may not be realistic and scheduling is key. Try to plan your job searching in between assignment deadlines or during study session breaks but don’t stress yourself out by trying to do everything at once.