Hiring Students for Summer Work in Ontario

Hiring students for summer roles can be a smart, cost-effective way to meet seasonal demand while building your future talent pipeline. Here’s what Ontario employers need to know to do it right.

Why hire students?

Students bring energy, flexibility, and a willingness to learn. For small and mid-sized businesses, they’re ideal for handling peak periods while freeing up experienced staff for higher-value work.

Student minimum wage in Ontario

Ontario has a separate student minimum wage:

• $16.60/hour (as of October 1, 2025)
• Applies to students under 18 who:
• Work 28 hours/week or less during school, or
• Work during school breaks or summer holidays

If a student is 18 or older, they must be paid the general minimum wage ($17.60/hour).

Rules for hiring young workers

Most student employees have the same rights as other workers under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act:

• Must receive at least minimum wage regardless of pay structure
• Are entitled to pay statements, vacation pay (min. 4%), and overtime rules
• Protected from reprisals for asserting their rights

Key rules to keep in mind:

• Three-hour rule: If an employee who usually works at least three hours a day is called into work but sent home early, you must pay them for at least three hours at their regular hourly rate.
• Limits on deductions: You cannot deduct for mistakes or cash shortages in most cases.
• Exemptions exist: Co-op students or certain training roles may not qualify for minimum wage.

Where to find student talent

• Local high schools, colleges, and universities
• Online job boards (e.g., Indeed)
• Social media and referrals
• Community job fairs

Writing effective job postings

• Keep requirements realistic (limited experience)
• Highlight learning opportunities
• Be clear on hours, duties, and expectations
• Promote your workplace culture 

Interviewing and selecting candidates

When hiring students, focus on attitude, reliability, and communication, not just experience.

New requirements under Bill 149

Ontario’s Working for Workers Four Act introduced hiring rules effective from January 1, 2026. If you have 25+ employees and post jobs publicly, you must:

• Include pay transparency in postings
• Avoid requiring Canadian experience
• Disclose use of AI in screening
• Confirm if the posting is for a real vacancy
• Notify interviewed candidates within 45 days
• Keep hiring records for 3 years

Onboarding and managing student workers

• Set clear expectations from day one
• Provide structured training and supervision
• Offer regular feedback and flexible scheduling
• Address performance issues early

Make it a win-win

A positive summer experience can turn students into long-term employees or brand ambassadors. Offer meaningful work, mentorship, and references where possible.

Do you have questions about hiring young workers in Ontario?

Peninsula can help. Whether you are looking for clarity on wage rules, employment standards, or new hiring laws like Bill 149, our qualified experts can provide actionable guidance to help your business stay compliant. Call us today at (1) 833-247-3652.