How to Get Your First Job in Canada

Getting your first job is a major milestone. It can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unsure where to start or don't have any previous work experience to put on a resume. The good news is that every working person started exactly where you are now. This guide covers where to look for work, how to apply, what employers expect, and the Indigenous-specific programs and resources that can help you along the way.

Where to Look for Your First Job

There are many channels for finding entry-level work in Canada. Cast a wide net and use more than one approach.

Online Job Boards

Indigenous Job Board Canada — right here! We post jobs from employers across Canada who are actively seeking Indigenous candidates
Government of Canada Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca) — the national job listing site, searchable by location, industry, and experience level
Indeed, LinkedIn, and Workopolis — large general boards with filters for entry-level positions

Community Centres and Band Offices

Many First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities have employment coordinators or job boards at the Band office, Friendship Centre, or community centre. These staff members can help with resume writing, job searching, and connecting you to training opportunities. Don't underestimate the value of walking in and asking — many positions in smaller communities are filled through word of mouth.

Local Businesses

Retail stores, restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, and service businesses frequently hire entry-level workers. Visit in person, ask if they're hiring, and leave a resume even if they don't have an immediate opening.

Government Programs

Federal and provincial governments run summer employment and youth employment programs, many of which are specifically for Indigenous youth:

First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy — funds summer jobs and internships in Indigenous communities
Canada Summer Jobs — federally subsidized summer positions available across the country
Provincial youth employment programs — vary by province but often provide wage subsidies that make it easier for employers to hire first-time workers

How to Apply

Most job applications require a resume and sometimes a cover letter. For some entry-level positions, you may simply fill out an application form in person or online.

Step 1: Prepare Your Resume

Even without paid work experience, you have things to put on a resume. Include:

Contact information (name, phone, email, city/community)
Education (school name, expected graduation year or diploma earned)
Volunteer experience — helping at community events, assisting Elders, participating in fundraisers, coaching youth sports, helping with ceremonies or cultural events
Skills — computer literacy, customer service, physical fitness, languages (including Indigenous languages), driver's licence
Certifications — First Aid, WHMIS, Food Handler's, Babysitting Course
References — ask a teacher, coach, Elder, or community leader who knows your character

Step 2: Write a Cover Letter

A cover letter is a one-page letter that introduces yourself and explains why you want the job. Not all employers require one, but submitting one shows initiative. Keep it brief and direct:

Opening paragraph: Which job you're applying for and where you found it
Middle paragraph: Why you're a good fit — mention relevant skills, volunteer work, or qualities
Closing paragraph: Thank the employer and express your availability for an interview

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Follow the employer's instructions exactly. If they ask for a PDF, send a PDF. If they want you to apply through their website portal, do that rather than emailing. Attention to detail matters.

Resume Tips for First-Time Job Seekers

Keep it to one page. With limited experience, one page is more than enough.
Focus on transferable skills. Babysitting shows responsibility. Helping with harvest shows physical stamina and teamwork. Tutoring shows communication skills.
Include community involvement. Employers value candidates who are active in their communities — this is especially true in Indigenous contexts where community participation is a demonstration of leadership and commitment.
Use a clean, simple format. No fancy graphics or colours. Use a professional font and consistent spacing.
Proofread everything. Ask a teacher, parent, or employment counsellor to review your resume before you submit it.

Networking

Networking means building relationships that can lead to job opportunities. In many Indigenous communities, personal connections are the primary way that jobs are filled. Here are ways to build your network:

Let family, friends, and community members know you're looking for work
Attend community events, career fairs, and job workshops
Volunteer — it builds experience and connects you with people who may know of openings
Talk to your school's guidance counsellor or career advisor
Visit your local Friendship Centre or employment resource centre
Connect with people on LinkedIn — even a basic profile helps

Indigenous-Specific Resources

Several programs exist specifically to help Indigenous people in Canada find employment and develop career skills.

ISETS (Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Strategy)

ISETS is the federal government's main program for supporting Indigenous employment. It funds over 100 Indigenous service delivery organizations across Canada that provide:

Job search assistance
Resume and interview coaching
Skills training and certification programs
Wage subsidies for employers who hire Indigenous workers
Support for self-employment

Aboriginal Skills Employment Training (ASETS)

Although ASETS has been replaced by ISETS, many community members still know it by this name. The services are similar: training, employment assistance, and support for Indigenous job seekers. Contact your local Indigenous employment centre to access these programs.

Band Employment Offices

Many First Nations operate their own employment offices that post local job openings, coordinate training programs, and connect members with opportunities both on and off reserve. If your community has an employment coordinator, they should be your first stop.

Friendship Centres

The National Association of Friendship Centres operates over 100 centres in urban areas across Canada. They offer employment workshops, resume help, computer access, and connections to local employers. Friendship Centres serve all Indigenous people regardless of status or community of origin.

Skills Link and Career Focus

These federal programs provide work experience and skills development for Indigenous youth aged 15–30. They offer paid work placements, mentoring, and support services.

What to Expect at Your First Job

Starting a new job — especially your first one — comes with a learning curve. Here is what to expect and how to make a strong impression:

The First Week

You'll likely receive orientation or training — pay close attention and take notes
Ask questions. Employers expect new hires to need guidance, and asking shows you care about doing good work
Learn the names of your coworkers and supervisor
Arrive on time — or better, a few minutes early

Workplace Expectations

Punctuality:Being on time is one of the most important habits to build. If you're going to be late or absent, call your supervisor as early as possible.
Dress code: Follow whatever the employer requires. When in doubt, dress slightly more professionally than you think is necessary.
Communication: If something is unclear, ask. If you make a mistake, own it and learn from it.
Phone use: Keep personal phone use to break times unless your job requires it.
Attitude:A positive, willing attitude goes a long way, especially when you're still learning the ropes.

Your Rights as an Employee

Even in your first job, you have legal rights:

You must be paid at least the minimum wage for your province or territory
You are entitled to breaks and days off as required by employment standards
You cannot be discriminated against based on your Indigenous identity, race, gender, or other protected grounds
You have the right to a safe workplace — report any hazards to your supervisor
If you work on a reserve, employment may be governed by the First Nation's own policies rather than provincial labour law — check with your Band office

Building from Here

Your first job doesn't have to be your dream job. It's a starting point — a place to build skills, earn income, gain confidence, and figure out what kind of work suits you. Every job you take teaches you something valuable, whether it's time management, customer service, teamwork, or technical skills. Keep your resume updated, continue learning, and stay connected to the resources and people who can support your career journey.