Ontario Parks is hiring for student summer jobs and here’s what to know before applying

Ontario Parks is already planning ahead for its 2026 season, looking to hire for its student summer jobs.

This is the perfect opportunity for students who want not only to gain valuable work experience but also to be part of maintaining some of Ontario’s most wonderful, natural landscapes.

Every summer, Ontario Parks hires about 1,600 students. By applying early, students will give themselves the best opportunity to secure their preferred job.

But before you apply, there are a number of things to note – especially available positions.

Summer positions available at Ontario Parks

Gate attendants

This role is responsible for welcoming and registering campers, providing all the information that visitors need to have an enjoyable visit.

Gate attendants manage cash flow and credit transactions. They also issue permits, provide retail services, and facilitate communication between departments.

Maintenance workers

This role will require you to use a variety of tools to clean and maintain park facilities. These include campsites, public areas, and comfort stations.

Maintenance also covers a lot of ground, managing recycling and garbage removal, removing hazards on trails, and even assisting with water testing for comfort stations and swimming areas.

Discovery rangers

Discovery rangers are Ontario Parks’ storytellers who participate in a wide variety of activities. These include delivering programs to help visitors connect with the natural and cultural resources found within the park.

What’s the hiring timeline?

Applications are now open, so get them in as soon as possible. Hiring managers will begin to review applications and interview starting in February 2026 to May 2026.

“Hiring is ongoing until all positions are filled,” shared Ontario Parks. “Apply early for your best chance to work at your preferred park!”

Summer positions and training begin in May to June 2026.

Who is eligible to apply?

Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or new to spending time in nature, Ontario Parks is looking for students who are interested in an entry-level job and want to be part of a friendly and inclusive environment.

There are four eligibility requirements for student jobs with Ontario Parks:

• You must be enrolled in a secondary or post-secondary institution, or you must have graduated within the past six months.
• You must be a minimum of 15 years of age. There is no maximum age limit.
• You must be a resident of Ontario during the term of employment.
• You must be legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid Social Insurance Number)

What skills should an applicant have?

Ontario Parks student summer jobs are entry-level positions, so you are not expected to have extensive work experience.

But these are some of the skills that these parks are looking for when hiring:

• Willingness to work as a member of a diverse team
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to collaborate and work on a team
• Ability to follow instructions and ask for directions
• Detail-oriented and have the ability to record information accurately
• Time management and the ability to manage competing priorities
• Willingness to learn
• Ability to problem solve
• Adaptable
• Strong problem-solving skills
• An Ontario G2 driver’s licence (asset)
• First Aid (asset)

“Ontario Parks welcomes all interested individuals to apply and encourages applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions,” states the hiring page.

Ready to apply? Get going on that application. And good luck!

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