Part-Time Jobs Near Lakehead University

Lakehead University students may study in Thunder Bay, Orillia or Barrie, depending on the program. Part-time job options depend heavily on the selected location, local transport, class schedule and Canadian study permit work conditions.

International students must always follow the work conditions attached to their Canadian study permit. Rules can change, so students should check the current IRCC guidance and their own permit conditions before accepting work.

Common Part-Time Job Options

Students near Lakehead may find part-time roles in:

• Retail shops and supermarkets
• Cafes, restaurants and fast food outlets
• Hotels and hospitality
• Customer service roles
• Campus support roles
• Student ambassador work
• Tutoring or academic support, where eligible
• Event staffing
• Recreation and sports facilities
• Care or community support roles, where training and eligibility are met

Thunder Bay and Orillia have smaller labour markets than Toronto, so students should apply early and stay flexible. Barrie may offer wider service, retail and hospitality options, especially because the STEM Hub is located in a downtown area.

On-Campus Work

On-campus work can be useful because it reduces travel time and is easier to manage around classes. Students can look for roles in student services, events, residence, library support, research assistance, peer mentoring, student union activities and campus ambassador work.

These roles can be competitive. Students should prepare a Canadian-style resume before arrival or during orientation and apply as soon as suitable positions open.

Working In Thunder Bay, Orillia Or Barrie

Each Lakehead location has a different part-time work pattern:

• Thunder Bay: Retail, food service, campus work, community services, hospitality and local businesses are common starting points.
• Orillia: Students may find roles in retail, restaurants, tourism-related services, campus support and community organisations.
• Barrie: From September 2026, STEM Hub students may look around downtown Barrie, waterfront businesses, retail, hospitality, tutoring and transit-connected areas.

Before accepting a role, students should consider travel time, winter weather, late shifts, safety, exam periods and whether the employer understands international student work rules.

How To Find Part-Time Jobs

Students can search through Lakehead career services, campus job boards, company websites, LinkedIn, Indeed, local businesses, student networks and employer events.

A strong application usually needs:

• A short Canadian-style resume
• Clear weekly availability
• Right-to-work documents
• Good communication
• Reliability and punctuality
• Customer service confidence
• Willingness to start with entry-level work

Practical Advice For New International Students

Students should not depend on part-time income to pay tuition. Part-time work can help with living costs and Canadian experience, but jobs are not guaranteed and hours are limited by study permit rules.

For the September 2026 intake, students should arrive with a realistic financial plan, then use part-time work to build confidence, local references and workplace experience.