Canada’s STEP Program 2026: Paid Green Jobs and Wage Subsidies for Youth and Employers in Natural Resources

Young people in Canada looking to launch meaningful careers in sustainability, environmental innovation, mining, forestry, clean energy, and earth sciences now have a major opportunity through the Science and Technology Employment Programme (STEP). Formerly known as the Science and Technology Internship Program (STIP), STEP has officially rebranded for 2026 while continuing its mission of creating green jobs and supporting workforce development across Canada’s natural resources sector.

Supported by Natural Resources Canada and delivered through Canada Green Corps (CGC), the STEP Program connects youth aged 15–30 with paid, hands-on employment opportunities in industries that are shaping Canada’s sustainable future. At the same time, employers receive substantial wage subsidies to help them recruit and train emerging talent.

The program is designed to benefit both job seekers and employers by creating practical work experiences, building industry skills, and supporting environmental and economic development across Canada.

What is the STEP Program?

The Science and Technology Employment Programme (STEP) is a Canadian employment initiative focused on helping youth gain practical work experience in natural resource sectors while helping employers reduce hiring costs through wage subsidies.

The initiative supports green employment opportunities connected to:

• Clean energy
• Forestry and conservation
• Mining and minerals
• Environmental sciences
• Geomatics and earth observation
• Climate change adaptation
• Sustainable resource development
• Environmental protection

As of April 2026, the program officially transitioned from STIP to STEP, but its core objective remains the same: preparing the next generation of professionals for Canada’s growing green economy.

Opportunities Available for Job Seekers

Young Canadians interested in environmental sustainability, science, technology, natural resources, engineering, or climate-focused careers can benefit significantly from STEP.

Participants gain:

1. Paid full-time work experience
2. Industry-relevant training
3. Career mentorship
4. Professional networking opportunities
5. Exposure to Canada’s green economy
6. Long-term employment prospects
7. Practical field and office experience

The placements are intended to help youth become job-ready while contributing to environmentally responsible projects and initiatives.

The program specifically supports opportunities in sectors such as:

Energy Sector

• Clean energy technologies
• Smart grids and energy storage
• Energy efficiency projects
• Sustainable development of non-renewable resources

Forestry Sector

• Forestry management
• Conservation and ecology
• Bioeconomy product manufacturing
• Wood product manufacturing
• Pulp and paper production

Mining, Minerals, and Metals

• Exploration and prospecting
• Extraction and milling
• Manufacturing and processing
• Mining support services
• Critical minerals development
• Mine reclamation and closure

Earth Sciences and Environmental Support

• Environmental assessments
• Climate change adaptation
• Geomatics and mapping
• Hazard prevention and analysis
• Sustainable development projects

These placements help young professionals build practical experience in industries that are increasingly important to Canada’s economy and environmental future.

STEP Wage Subsidies for Employers

Employers across Canada can also benefit from STEP by accessing wage subsidies that significantly reduce hiring costs.

Organizations hiring eligible youth may receive:

• Up to 75% wage subsidies for qualifying positions
• Up to $20,000 for job-ready youth hires
• Up to $24,000 for youth from employment equity groups
• Up to $27,000 for youth experiencing barriers

Funding is available for employers operating in natural resource sectors and green economy industries. Priority is given to employers hiring youth from underrepresented and equity-deserving communities.

Employers Eligible to Apply

Eligible employers may include:

• Private companies
• Non-profit organizations
• Indigenous organizations
• Municipal and provincial entities
• Environmental organizations
• Mining and energy companies
• Forestry enterprises
• Sustainability-focused businesses

The program helps employers:

• Reduce recruitment costs
• Build future talent pipelines
• Increase organizational capacity
• Support sustainability initiatives
• Access motivated young workers
• Contribute to workforce diversity

Who Can Apply as a Job Seeker?

To qualify for STEP, applicants must:

• Be between 15 and 30 years old at the start of placement
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
• Be legally allowed to work in Canada
• Work full-time (minimum 30 hours per week)
• Be newly hired after April 1, 2026

The program does not support temporary summer jobs or short-term student placements. Participants are expected to engage in meaningful long-term employment opportunities.

Focus on Diversity and Inclusion

One of the major strengths of STEP is its commitment to inclusion and equitable employment opportunities.

The program prioritizes youth who may face barriers to employment, including:

• Indigenous youth
• Women in STEM and natural resources
• Racialized youth
• Youth with disabilities
• Youth living in northern territories
• Youth in remote communities

This focus helps create a more inclusive workforce while ensuring underrepresented communities can participate in Canada’s growing green economy.

Why the STEP Program Matters

Canada’s natural resources sector is undergoing significant transformation due to climate innovation, sustainability priorities, and clean technology development. Employers increasingly need skilled young professionals who understand environmental responsibility and emerging technologies.

STEP helps bridge the gap between education and employment by giving youth direct industry experience while helping employers strengthen their workforce.

The program also contributes to:

• Environmental sustainability
• Economic development
• Workforce modernization
• Climate action
• Green innovation
• Youth employment

For many participants, STEP becomes the foundation for long-term careers in environmental sciences, engineering, conservation, mining, energy, and sustainability-focused industries.

Application Deadline

There is currently no fixed deadline for STEP applications. However, funding is limited and applications are processed based on availability. Early application is strongly encouraged for both employers and job seekers.

Application Links

Job Seekers

Apply here: STEP Job Seekers Portal

Employers

Apply here: STEP Employers Portal

Official Program Information

Learn more: Canada Green Corps STEP Program

The STEP Program represents an outstanding opportunity for young Canadians to gain practical green economy experience while helping employers invest in the future workforce. Whether you are an aspiring environmental professional or an employer seeking skilled young talent, STEP offers valuable support to help build sustainable careers and industries across Canada.

Opportunity Category

Job / Employment Program

Eligible Applicants

• Youth aged 15–30
• Canadian citizens
• Permanent residents
• Refugees legally authorized to work in Canada
• Employers in Canada’s natural resources sector

Eligible Countries/Regions

Canada

Eligible Continents

North America

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