Students Looking for Summer Jobs Can Still Apply for Essential Work
The federal and provincial government have released a list of essential jobs during the pandemic
Students who rely on summer jobs are facing employment uncertainty as companies shut down in adherence with social distancing orders. This summer, mostly only essential jobs will be available to students, and the B.C. government released a list of essential service providers including transit workers, grocery store clerks, delivery service workers, and more. Grocery stores like Walmart, Loblaws, and Save on Foods are hiring for in-store positions, and Save on Foods is hiring delivery drivers.
Merchandise delivery services have also seen increased demand since British Columbians went into quarantine. FedEx is looking for a delivery driver and customer service associate, and Amazon is looking for a delivery driver and warehouse associate.
Food delivery services are also thriving because restaurants can no longer provide in-restaurant dining due to social distancing orders. The government still allows restaurants to continue service as long as they only sell takeout and delivery. To meet customer demand, companies like DoorDash and Uber Eats are hiring more drivers.
Services to help seniors cope during this time are also operating. Best BC, a company that helps seniors shop for groceries, prepare meals, pick up prescriptions, and stay social is looking for cyclists and drivers who can help.
To keep cyclists mobile, bicycle shops have been listed as an essential service. West Points Cycles in Vancouver is hiring full-time and part-time associates.
Farming is an essential job, and many farmers and farming companies are looking for workers to help with production. Highlighting it as a great seasonal job for students, the federal government has released a list of available jobs for British Columbians.
In Richmond, companies like Organika, Nature’s Path, and Fine Choice Foods are hiring.
WorkBC continues to provide support for people looking for jobs and has launched online employment services to be used remotely.
The federal government has also taken action to include students in the Canada Emergency Response Benefit Program.
When the fund was created, one of the eligibility requirements for applying to receive support was earning a minimum of $5,000 in 12 months before taxes. This money could come from “employment income, self-employment income, or provincial or federal benefits related to maternity or paternity leave.”
Students who only work during the summer or make less than $5,000 per year couldn’t apply until the federal government started allowing people making less than $1,000 per four-week payment period.
Recipients of the CERB receive $2,000 every four weeks for up to 16 weeks. Students who have lost their summer jobs due to the pandemic can send their applications for financial support through the Government of Canada’s website.
