Best Jobs for Teens in Canada (14, 15, 16, 17+ Hiring Now)

Getting your first job is a rite of passage. It means money for clothes, video games, or saving for a car.

But for a 14 or 15-year-old in Canada, the rules are confusing. Some places won't look at you until you are 16. Others will hire you at 14 but limit your hours.

In 2026, the labour market is desperate for young workers. Fast food chains, amusement parks, and grocery stores are actively recruiting high school students because they offer flexible evening and weekend shifts.

If you are a student (or a parent helping one), here is the ultimate guide to landing that first paycheck.

1. The Legal Age: Can I Work at 14?

Yes, in most provinces.

• Ontario: You can work at 14 in most industrial/commercial settings (offices, stores, arenas, restaurants). You cannot work in a factory or construction until older.
• Alberta: You can work at 13 or 14 with parental consent for specific jobs (delivery, clerking).
• British Columbia: You can work at 14 with parental consent "light work."

The "Student Minimum Wage":

In some provinces (like Ontario), there is a special Student Minimum Wage (approx. $16.20/hr) for workers under 18 who work 28 hours or less per week during school. It is slightly lower than the general adult wage, which makes teens attractive to employers.

2. Best Jobs for 14 & 15-Year-Olds (The "First Tier")

At this age, you can't serve alcohol or work late nights.

1. Wonderland / CNE / The PNE (Amusement Parks)

• The Job: Game operator, Sweeper, Food Stall helper.
• Why apply: They hire thousands of teens every summer. It is the easiest place to get hired with zero experience.
• The Pay: Often $17–$18/hr.
• Internal Link: This is the ultimate seasonal job for summer break.

2. McDonald's (The "Resume Builder")

• The Job: Crew Member (Cashier, Fry Cook).
• Why apply: McDonald's training is world-famous. Future employers respect it because it teaches discipline.
• The Perks: 50% off food and flexible scheduling around high school exams.

3. Paper Route / Flyer Delivery (Metroland)

• The Job: Delivering community newspapers to doorsteps.
• Why apply: You can do it at 12 or 13. It is independent work.
• The Pay: Piecework (pennies per flyer). It’s low pay, but good "pocket money."

3. Best Jobs for 16 & 17-Year-Olds (The "Second Tier")

Once you hit 16, more doors open.

4. Cineplex (Movie Theatre)

• The Job: Cast Member (Concessions, Usher).
• The Perks: Free Movies. You and a guest can usually watch unlimited movies for free. This is the #1 reason teens apply here.
• The Hours: Late nights (until midnight) are required on weekends.

5. Grocery Clerk (Loblaws / Sobeys / Metro)

• The Job: Bagger, Cart Retriever (Buggy Boy/Girl), Stocker.
• Why apply: It is unionized. You get guaranteed raises.
• Internal Link: If you prefer working quietly, check out PC Express Personal Shopper roles.

6. Lifeguard / Swim Instructor

• The Job: Watching the pool at the City Rec Center.
• The Pay: $20 – $28 per hour (High Pay!).
• The Catch: You need certifications (Bronze Cross, NLS). It costs money and time to get certified, but it pays off huge.

Comparison Table: Best Teen Jobs Ranked

Practical Questions Answered

"How do I write a resume with no experience?"

Focus on "Soft Skills" and Volunteering.

• School: "Maintained a 85% average while playing varsity soccer" (Shows time management).
• Volunteering: "Collected donations for Food Bank" (Shows responsibility).
• Skills: "Fluent in TikTok/Social Media" (Actually valuable for some small businesses).

"What do I wear to the interview?"

"Smart Casual."

Do not wear a suit (too much). Do not wear sweatpants (too little).

• Boys: Khakis or clean black jeans and a polo shirt/button-up.
• Girls: Black pants and a nice blouse or sweater.
• Internal Link: Read our guide on How to Get Hired at Home Depot for more interview outfit tips.

"Can my parents apply for me?"

NO.

If your mom calls the manager, you will not get the job. Managers want to see independence. You must hand in the resume yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours can a teen work in Canada?

It varies by province, but generally, you cannot work during school hours (8am–3pm). In Ontario, there is no specific daily maximum for 16-year-olds other than the "8 hours between shifts" rule, but most employers limit students to 15–20 hours per week to avoid burnout.

Do I need a bank account?

Yes. No one pays cash anymore. You need a checking account (like a Student Account at RBC/TD which is usually free) to receive Direct Deposit. You will also need a Social Insurance Number (SIN), which you can get at Service Canada.

Is working at a restaurant better than retail?

For money? Yes.

If you work as a Host/Hostess or Busser at a restaurant (like The Keg or Boston Pizza), you get a portion of the tips (Tip Out). This can add an extra $3–$5 per hour to your wage. Retail jobs rarely have tips.

About the author

Jeff Calixte (MC Yow-Z) is a Canadian career researcher and digital entrepreneur who studies hiring trends, labour market data, and real entry-level opportunities across Canada. He specializes in simplifying the job search for newcomers, students, and workers using practical, up-to-date information.

Sources

• Ontario.ca (Young Workers Rights): https://www.ontario.ca/document/your-guide-employment-standards-act-0/young-workers-rights
• Cineplex Careers: https://cineplex.com/careers
• Lifesaving Society (Lifeguard Training): https://www.lifesavingsociety.com/

Note:

Job availability, wages, and hiring conditions can vary widely by province, employer, season, and experience level. All salary ranges and job examples in this guide are estimates based on current labour market data. Always confirm details directly with the employer before applying.