Youth employment program

Last updated on November 22, 2023

The youth employment program is a great introduction to working for the BC Public Service, and a way to gain experience and build a resume.

When applying for the youth employment program, consider the following:

  • The program provides students with a work placement in government that allows them to explore the public service and gain practical work experience
  • Work terms are auxiliary appointments and cannot exceed 4 months
  • Work terms cannot be extended

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the BC Public Service’s youth employment program, students must have been enrolled in full-time studies at an accredited educational institution within the past 6 months. Students who meet these criteria at an educational institution located outside of B.C. are eligible for the youth employment program.

The Co-op Employment Program is an alternative employment program that provides students registered in a cooperative education program at their post-secondary institution an opportunity to expand their skills by working on projects that augment their field of study.

Hiring

Opportunities to work for the BC Public Service through the youth employment program may be advertised through the BC Public Service current job postings.  

The youth employment program offers 2 employment options, depending on the level of schooling:

  • Level 1 is for students who have enrolled in full-time studies at an accredited educational institution within the past 6 months at Grade 12 or below
  • Level 2 is for students who have enrolled in full-time studies at an accredited educational institution within the past 6 months at a post-secondary level

For more information about the program, please refer to Article 34.3 in the BCGEU Collective Agreement (PDF, 3.7MB).

Visit Co-op Connect Hub - Youth Employment Resource Page (IDIR restricted) to learn more about hiring students under the Youth Employment Program and your hiring options.

Check out the salary look-up tool for the most up to date salary information.