Job Search – Summer Opportunities

Seeking a summer job and wondering how to get started or trying something different this year? Here is a 2025 guide of six frequently asked questions to help you navigate the summer job search.   

January 7, 2025

1. When is the best time to apply for summer employment?

Key times of the year to apply for summer employment:  

  • Between December to February: Many organizations are actively hiring to have positions filled for May start.  December and January are peak times, with some postings closing in January. 
  • Early March: McMaster’s Work-Study program will have positions posted on Mosaic for summer employment.  
  • March and April: Non-profit organizations who have received government funding for their summer positions will start hiring for summer opportunities.  

2. Where can I search for summer job opportunities? 

Did you know? Employers connect with the Student Success Centre to recruit McMaster students.

These job postings are open to students and alumni from all faculty, including Summer Employment positions. Visit OSCARplus > Student Success Centre > Employment > Job postings and use search criteria, “Summer Employment”. 

Opportunities to work at McMaster:

Government summer opportunities:

General job posting sites: 

Additional tips for job posting sites: You can usually filter by “remote” on typical job websites to explore options beyond your geographic area, target specific companies and organizations. Visit the company’s website directly and check their job postings or call to inquire about when they hire for the summer. 

Try to visit retail stores in person. Some suggestions for the Hamilton area: Westdale, Dundurn Plaza, University Plaza, Jackson Square, Ancaster Meadowlands and Limeridge Mall.  

3. Where can I get support on my resume and cover letter?  

We created resources to help you navigate the summer job search process with confidence.

  • Resume tips: Communicate your experiences and abilities clearly for both human and technology.
  • Cover letter tips: Communicate how you are capable of the job, your fit with the organization and how you are great to work with.
  • Interview prep: Practice with Big Interview, a platform that provides helpful videos on interview techniques along with a library of interview questions to practice from. Register with your McMaster email to access it for free.  

Have questions? Connect with our team directly.

Attend 30-minute webinars: Presentations to help your job search. Weekly topics such as Summer Job Search, Resume, LinkedIn, Networking, Interview prep and more. Register on OSCARplus > Student Success Centre > Events

Upcoming Winter 2025 webinars:

Book one-one-one appointments (Types: Resume and Cover Letter Writing or Job Search Coaching)

  • Book appointments on OSCARplus > Student Success Centre > Appointments > Career Counselling & Job Search Coaching Calendar > Book by Type: Resume and Cover Letter Writing (available Jan to March) or Job Search Coaching (open all year). 
  • Note: Check with your Faculty Career Office to get support with your resume and job search.  

4. Where else can I find work or learn about opportunities? 

Connect with people and go beyond your computer to find the opportunities to make your summer experience what you want.  

Attend job fairs and networking events: Take advantage of the job fairs and events that help to connect you to the employers and people who can then connect you to summer opportunities.  All events are posted on OSCARplus.  

Upcoming Winter 2025 job fairs and networking events:

5. Are there other tips or suggestions I should know about? 

Create a plan  

  • Start early! Some positions are posted as early as fall, even though the typical recruiting period for summer positions is January–March. 
  • Think creatively about the different ways you can meet your summer goals. LinkedIn Learning is great for developing skills. Doing informational interviews can help you explore your career field. If your main goal is to make money, think broadly about the available opportunities. 
  • Incorporate your job search into your daily or weekly routine. Create a job search schedule. 

Use effective techniques  

  • Connect with us for a resume critique to ensure you’re showcasing your skills and experience in a way that will appeal to your audience. Book an appointment on OSCARplus > Student Success Centre > Appointments > Career Counselling and Job Search Coaching. 
  • Attend webinar sessions to learn more tips and get answers to your questions. Topics include resumes, LinkedIn, networking, interviews and job searching. Register on OSCARplus > Student Success Centre > Events. 
  • Connect wtih people. You never know who can lead you to your next opportunity. Telling your friends, family, professors, teaching assistants and peers what you’re searching for may lead to ideas and referrals. 

Use many methods  

  • Check job posting websites suggested above, but don’t stop there! 
  • Go to company websites for postings and do your research. Tailor your application before you apply. 
  • Use social media platforms to connect with organizations, people and opportunities. 
  • LinkedIn can be a powerful professional tool — search McMaster University alumni to find out what they do now. 

6. Are there other resources and supports I should consider? 

Summer jobs are not only to make some money to help pay for school, but they are your foundation to build your experiences, expand your professional skills and networks, develop your career ready skills and explore more about what you like and don’t like.   

What ever summer job you find, you’ll be building transferable skills, learning more about the work world and setting a foundation for your next job.