Neither student wages nor early summer job numbers appear affected by the recession, said an official from Red Deer’s student job office.
So far, 30 jobs have been posted at the local Service Canada Centre for Youth. That’s on par, considering the office only opened last Wednesday on the second floor of 4911 51st St., said lead youth services officer Annemarie Trentham.
It often takes employers a few weeks to realize the service is once again in operation, added Trentham, who expects more job openings will be called or emailed in over the next few weeks.
So far, the available positions are paying quite well. Trentham said the average posted wage is $13.23, compared with last year’s average of $12.91.
Employers, both businesses and individuals from the community, are encouraged to call in any jobs they have. “Whatever the job — big or small, we can help you fill it,” she said. Full-time, part-time and casual job listings will be posted at the centre — anything from restaurant and retail work at local establishments to painting or yard work at private residences.
The goal is to link young workers and potential employers, said Trentham. “Our (office) is now open and ready to assist them in any way it can.”
Employers can drop by the centre between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., call in job openings to the centre at 403-340-4250, fax them to 403-309-4949 or email sccy-cscj.reddeer@servicecanada.gc.ca
Trentham and other local Service Canada workers doubled appearances at schools and job fairs this spring to raise awareness of the summer employment program among students. While 2,215 young people from 12 to 30 were assisted by the program in 2008, Trentham hopes to increase the number this summer job season.
The Service Canada Centre for Youth will also provide students with interview advice, resume building and job search strategies.
Job postings are available online at www.jobbank.gc.ca under ‘student job search,’ ‘Alberta,’ ‘Red Deer and area,’ then ‘Red Deer.’
For more information about Service Canada’s services for youth, call 1-800-O-Canada or visit servicecanada.gc.ca
lmichelin@www.reddeeradvocate.com