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Our monthly science question: Why Has It Become So Difficult for Young People to Find a Summer Job?

August 4, 2025

( Update : August 4, 2025 )

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Why Has It Become So Difficult for Young People to Find a Summer Job? Our monthly science question: A series that demystifies complex subjects with simple, effective answers from our specialists.

Youth as a Mirror of Societal Change Whether driven by a desire for independence or financial need, more and more young people in Québec are entering the job market, with their activity rate now exceeding 80%. However, they are also among the first to be affected by the turbulent socioeconomic climate of 2025. Despite the post-COVID labour shortages that briefly opened doors to employment, young people are now struggling to find a job.

Studying Youth to Better Support Them At Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Professor Mircea Vultur is focusing his research on youth and workforce integration. He emphasizes that during economic uncertainty, young people are the most vulnerable in terms of employment: the last hired is the first to be let go. They also face stiff competition from international graduates and older workers.

Artificial Intelligence and Digital Tools—Storms on the Job Market Over the past two years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a strong competitor for young workers. AI-driven automation is increasingly used for routine administrative and customer service tasks, directly threatening low-skilled jobs typically held by youth. In addition, employers are demanding advanced digital skills and mastery of specialized software, creating a widening gap—known as the digital divide—between well-trained youth and those with limited qualifications.

What About Young People with Degrees? Even graduates face a rocky path. University graduation rates are rising faster than specialized jobs are being created. As a result, it is estimated that about 33% of university graduates in Québec are overqualified. Some young people even choose to omit their degrees from their résumés in hopes of landing a job—despite having gone into debt to obtain those qualifications.

The Impact of Minimum Wage Paradoxically , minimum wage laws can also pose a barrier to first-time employment. With wages set at over $15 per hour, small and medium-sized businesses may be hesitant to train young workers who are only available for a few months during summer vacantion, notes Professor Vultur. Conversely, it’s likely that some young job seekers starting their careers would be willing to work for less rather than remain unemployed.

Considering the Real Needs of Youth In this area, any regulations can have both positive and negative effects, Professor Vultur observes. That’s why his research is so important—to better understand the challenges youth face, propose tailored solutions, and encourage governments and employers to offer meaningful support, ensuring everyone has a place in the job market.

Read more:

Mircea Vultur
Mircea Vultur
COVID-19: Shifting our approach to employment
COVID-19: Shifting our approach to employment
Artificial intelligence at work
Artificial intelligence at work

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