10 Unique Montreal Summer Jobs

For those who are looking for something different.

Don't be jealous of all your rich friends who are off travelling the world while you're stuck in Montreal working over the summer. There are plenty of unique jobs that are outside of Montreal (or even further) that offer travel opportunities while you make money. Sounds too good to be true, but it ain't. We've got a list of suggestions so read on to find out how you can get out of the city while earning some summer money.

While working abroad, you'll want to make sure to continuously deposit your pay in order to bank on your summer savings.

Check out these unique summer jobs around Montreal:

1. Parks Canada

If you're a full-time secondary or post-secondary student, then Parks Canada has a job for you! These jobs are the length of the whole summer, May to September, and can involve anything from office support to visitor services. Not to mention, being employed by the federal government will look great to future employers!

2. Lifeguard at a Water Park

Who doesn't want to spend the summer in the sun, by the pool and getting paid for it? If you have completed your national lifeguard training program (or even if you've only completed up until Bronze Cross), you can get a job at a city pool or, better yet, at one of the many water parks near Montreal.

3. WWOOF'ing

WWOOF, or World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, is a volunteer organization focused on organic farming. The cool thing about it is that you're placed with a host family and are expected to join in on their daily tasks, in exchange for food and accommodation. This is a great way to travel and see the world - there are host families in pretty much any country you can think of!

4. Catering Companies

Working for a catering company is a great way to make some money over the summer, while also taking part and 'attending' interesting events. Some catering companies based out of Montreal will even involve travelling to other locations to cater parties. If you're interested in cuisine or pastry, you can also look for a position within these companies, preparing the menus and plates.

5. Brand Ambassador

As we all know, some of the best fun that we have during the summer happens at our incredible events and festivals. Why not work at these events, while enjoying them? Brand ambassadors are very in demand throughout the summer months - Red Bull, non-profits, etc - everyone is looking for young men and women to represent their brand in a fun and exciting way!

6. Travelling Nanny

This is especially on point for those whose job experience includes mostly babysitting, or even those studying early childhood education! International Nannies cover travel expenses, food, accommodations, living expenses and so much more. Really, what more can you want from a summer job?

7. Cruise Ships

Cruise ships are basically mini villages on the water. This means that pretty much anything you're good at, or anything you have experience in, is needed on a cruise ship. You can work in retail, administration, entertainment, service industry and so much more. The world of cruise ships offers endless possibilities and then, depending on the ship, even more options open up. For example, if you were to work on a Disney cruise ship, you may be hired as a character attendant!

Keep in mind, however, that jobs on cruise ships often require a 4-6 month commitment and do involve a full day's work, mostly 7 days a week.

8. Teaching English

Receiving your TESL (Teach English as a Second Language) or TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) Certificate can open so many doors for you, it's incredible. Beyond getting a job in Montreal, teaching English to francophone students or new immigrants, you can also use your certificates to travel. Countries in Asia and the Middle East, especially, are constantly looking for new English as a second/foreign language teachers.

9. Hospitality Industry

Although the hospitality industry can be a little difficult, it will definitely look great on your CV and will teach you many useful skills which will be useful in your future. These skills revolve around diplomacy, customer service, patience, strong work ethic - all attributes that employers are on the lookout for, in every field. The hospitality industry often tends to be a little bit more flexible in terms of hours/shifts, which is very good for those who may still be taking some summer classes!

10. Au Pair Program

An Au Pair is basically a live-in, foreign nanny - you provide childcare in exchange for room and board. The real legit Au Pair programs will screen you and your host family, so be on the lookout for that as it ensures that safety is key to them. Besides room and board, you will receive wages or a stipend for your work, as well as the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.