University and college students mining for solid summer employment opportunities will find a unique experience with Huronia Historical Parks, an attraction of Ontario’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.
Home to both Discovery Harbour and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, the organization offers unique learning experiences for those who are historically inclined, building careers in the trades, or even exploring a teaching career.
“We draw visitors from near and far, and the historic sites are set in different time periods. Discovery Harbour is a 19th century military and naval base, with historical links to the War Of 1812 and after,” said Melissa Elsdon, Coordinator of Marketing & Media Relations.
“Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is a national historic site that tells a poignant story of 17th century cultural contact between Europeans and Indigenous peoples. Both are amazing historical landmarks.”
The tourism attractions open for the season in May each year and operate all summer – with Sainte-Marie staying open until later in the fall.
“Both sites have been operating for decades, welcoming education groups and commercial tour groups, as well as delivering special events programs,” said Elsdon. “Students who work here get to meet guests and students from all over the world.”
There are multiple different roles for the summer, including ticket booth workers, maintenance attendants, costumed historical interpreters and a special events assistant.
“What is required depends on the role, but things like a good attitude, willingness to learn and a love of working with the public are essential to all student jobs,” she said.
“Students could be on the historic site demonstrating historical craftwork, but could also be operating a riding lawn mower, or editing videos, depending on the role. But we are also absolutely willing to train. We like our interpreters to love studying history, though it’s not required. We just want staff keen on getting to know these sites and their fascinating pasts.”
Elsdon is steadfast that employing students for their busy season is integral to the Parks’ operation.
“They are just essential. We couldn’t open the doors without them. Whether they’re working in our retail shop, pruning gardens, or dressed in historical costumes teaching people about history, student staff are so important,” she said.
Elsdon began working at Huronia Historical Parks in 2021 and feels the reasons she took a job would also resonate with students.
“These are the premier tourist attractions in the region, and we welcome locals, people from the GTA, Quebec, other parts of Canada and even across Europe. People come because these historic sites offer significant stories and learnings,” she said.
“Every day, we get to interact with people in meaningful ways and teach them things. We as staff get to help people have fun and walk away having learned something, and that was near-and-dear to the hearts of students last summer.”
A testament to how rewarding the roles can be, many of Elsdon’s current full-time co-workers started in summer positions.
“Some have been here 10, 20 or 30 years, and started as historical interpreters or ticket booth clerks. Many went on to different careers after working at Huronia Historical Parks, but came back because of the great memories and connections they made while working here as students. That represents a large component of the Huronia Historical Parks staff team,” she said.
“For students, they get that paycheck every two weeks, but they can also develop life-long friendships and there’s potential to learn and grow within the Government of Ontario. This is a really great starting point.”
Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks clarified that as part of the funding requirements, the program is specific to students aged 30 and under who are enrolled in college or university, but some exceptions can be made for recent graduates and those intending to go back to school. Additionally, some high school students are hired each year. Training begins in late April 2023.
“We hire a fair number of students each and every year, and even if they’re not in history or a related field, we are always excited to get strong applications. We also love seeing students come back several years in a row. We are all about team building here,” said Baird.
“It’s about finding people who will fit, and offering a really amazing way to get work and training in a fun atmosphere. The jobs here are hands-on and unique, and students will always be having a different experience.”
There are summer jobs open right now, and they can be viewed online here or here.