With the increase in the job market for Saskatchewan and the need for jobs is reaching a peak, the Government of Saskatchewan has announced funding of $4 million for the Economic Recovery Work Experience Initiative. 

As of March 16, 2022, there are over 270 available jobs in the Humboldt region according to SaskJobs. 

According to the Saskatchewan Government, the Economic Recovery Work Experience Initiative is a one-time pandemic recovery initiative for employers and those seeking a job. 

The program provides funding for paid work experiences for job seekers to gain practical skills in priority sectors, such as hospitality, agriculture, retail, health, and childcare. 

"The Economic Recovery Work Experience Initiative will help address the gap of skilled labour shortages in key priority sectors," Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "This funding will create a stronger Saskatchewan by providing employers with the skilled workforce they need and by empowering job seekers to fully participate in our economy as we emerge from the pandemic." 

The project is set to connect around 465 job seekers with employers looking to address their workforce needs, which will allow sustainable employment and access to new talent for employers. The project will be funded through the Canada-Saskatchewan Labour Market Transfer Agreements. 

The Saskatchewan Government states the project will be administered by service providers who will connect employers that have available work opportunities in priority sectors with those looking for a job. They will then gain the skills needed for work through a work experience of up to 16 weeks. 

To be eligible, those looking for a job must be working with SaskJobs Career Services; or an approved service provider states the Saskatchewan Government. The potential worker must also:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Legally entitled to work in Saskatchewan
  • Facing job search and skills barriers to obtaining and maintaining employment
  • Unemployed or underemployed (working less than 20 hours a week)

The Government of Saskatchewan states that employers looking for workers will have the opportunity to provide work experiences for unemployed or underemployed job seekers and receive cost-sharing for wages, including:

  • Up to $6,000 for every work experience participant
  • 100 percent of the minimum hourly wage is covered in the first month, 80 percent in the second month, and 60 percent in the third and fourth months by the Saskatchewan Government.