NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS AND FUNDING – FIRST JOBS PROGRAM – Apply Now

FIRST (First Industrial Research, Science, or Technology) Job placement program by Technology Alberta, with support from the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada, will create over 400 employment opportunities for students and recent graduates in Alberta through 2024. FIRST Jobs programs aim to connect innovative technology SMEs with talent from post-secondary institutions across Alberta.

Technology Alberta is proud to offer multiple pathways of FIRST Jobs, to best support the SME community. Read below to find a pathway that works best for your business or career.

Below you will find links to each program pathway, as well as general information applicable to the FIRST Jobs program.  

For additional information, please attend a virtual information session, or apply by selecting one of the 3 buttons below.

FIRST Jobs Program Pathways

Eligibility and Requirements

Program Name

Work Term Length

Intern Stipend*

Reimbursement to Company**

FIRST Jobs 200

200 hours

(10 hrs/week)

$4000

$4000 (100%)

FIRST Jobs 250

250 hours

(15-20 hrs/week)

$5000

$4000 (80%)

FIRST Jobs: Scale-Up

500 hours

(Full-time 30-40 hrs/week)

$10,000

$7500 (75%)

*Interns are paid $20/hr in all programs

**Companies are required to pay students, and then apply for reimbursement (details outlined in contract with Technology Alberta)

***Companies may participate in only one FIRST Jobs: Scale-Up work term

Employer Eligibility

Jobseeker Eligibility

  • -Company is incorporated and operating in Alberta
  • -SME (fewer than 100 employees)
  • -Working in the technology sector and creating innovative solutions
  • -Able to provide a meaningful work integrated learning experience to their hired student/new graduate 
  • -Able to provide mentorship to their hire on their provided project
  • -Able to pay their hire $20/hour for the program duration (200, 250, 500 hours) 
  • -Currently studying at an accredited post-secondary institution located in Alberta (or graduated within the past 6 months)
    • For a complete list, click here.
  • -Over 18 years of age
  • -Alberta resident and able to work within the province for the duration of their work term
      • International students are eligible for FIRST Jobs programs
  • -Have not previously completed a FIRST Jobs Program work term (in any stream) 
  • -Have not previously been employed by their First Jobs company
  • Requirements are expanded upon through each program page. (Above)

How to Participate

The FIRST Jobs Program has been supported by the Government of Canada through Prairies Economic Development Canada, and the Government of Alberta.

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Contact us at info@technologyalberta.ca