'Essential skills' will pave the way for future career ambitions of team members, says CPO
McDonald’s Canada has launched a large-scale hiring campaign ahead of the summer season, opening the door for youth to enter the workforce.
The restaurant chain is hiring approximately 20,000 workers to manage the anticipated summer rush.
This follows a similar initiative in the United States, where McDonald’s recently announced plans to recruit around 375,000 employees.
The company aims to add 900 new restaurants in the U.S. by 2027.
A summer job at McDonald’s can serve as a stepping stone for Canadian youth looking to kickstart their careers, says Chat Sangha, an independent McDonald's franchisee in Edmonton.
"I'm looking for employees who want to earn extra money and also learn skills they'll have for their entire lives. McDonald's experience is a proven résumé-builder and really is the best, first job. I love giving job opportunities to hardworking students in my community and seeing them thrive.”
Successful applicants will become part of a fast-paced, guest-focused, and locally grounded team.
According to the company, those hired will benefit from flexible shift options, as well as training, education, and scholarship programs.
"It doesn't matter if you're preparing one of our iconic menu items in the kitchen or asking a guest to ‘Round-Up for RMHC’ at the front counter, every job at a McDonald's restaurant is an important one," said Erin Moore, Chief People Officer, McDonald's Canada.
"Equipping restaurant teams with essential skills that not only serve them well now but also pave the way for future career ambitions—no matter what your role—is a priority. Whether you're looking to kickstart your career or climb the corporate ladder, there is a team for you here at McDonald's."
Seasonal hiring offers an effective strategy for addressing labour shortages, according to staffing firm Robert Half.
For instance, accounting and finance professionals often face increased workloads, and hiring contract workers can provide valuable support, the firm notes.
Companies also stand to benefit significantly by hiring young people—especially when they are willing to invest in training, says Randstad.
"With the ability to find skilled labour becoming more and more difficult, companies must focus on training within. Ultimately, this transition to in-house training will change the type of candidates your company needs. Instead of solely searching for candidates that already have the skills you want, your company should also look for candidates you can train."
To hire seasonal staff effectively, Robert Half advises employers to set clear expectations and be prepared to extend job offers quickly.
Meanwhile, Randstad recommends targeting candidates with "desirable soft skills, such as problem-solving, adaptability, critical thinking and communication skills, that indicate they’re good learners."
"Loosening your candidate criteria will expand your overall talent pool and ensure you hire candidates who can grow with the company," the firm adds.
Recently, Prince Edward Island urged employers across the province to take advantage of government-funded programs to hire students for summer employment.
