Top 10 Tech Internships Offered in Canada

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 23rd 2024

Collage of tech company logos like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Shopify, representing top internships in Canada.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Canada offers premier tech internships for 2024, providing vital industry experience and job prospects, with nearly 60% of interns securing full-time positions. Top companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Shopify, and IBM offer programs focusing on real-world projects, structured mentorship, and competitive pay. These opportunities bolster career growth, positioning interns for success in Canada's booming tech sector. Key features include hands-on learning, exposure to diverse tech roles, and pathways to full-time employment, making these internships essential for aspiring tech professionals.

As a student or recent grad trying to break into tech, landing an internship is crucial. Canada's tech industry is booming, and companies of all sizes are offering amazing internship programs to help you gain valuable hands-on experience.

They allow you to apply what you've learned in school to real-world projects, giving you a taste of what it's like to work in your dream job. Plus, you'll build a network of industry pros who could become mentors or even help you land a sweet full-time gig after graduation.

Speaking of full-time opportunities, completing an internship makes you way more competitive in the job market.

According to a study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, nearly 60% of interns received full-time job offers from their internship employers.

The top companies offering internships in Canada for 2024 include major players like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Shopify, and IBM, as well as exciting startups and companies you may not have heard of yet.

We'll dive into the details of each program later in the article, but these internships are seriously amazing opportunities if you want to kickstart your career in Canada's thriving tech industry.

And be sure to check out resources like this crowdsourced list of Canadian tech internships for Summer 2024 to get a head start on your search.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology for Selecting Top Tech Internships
  • Google Canada Internship Program
  • Microsoft Canada Internship Program
  • Amazon Canada Internship Program
  • Shopify Canada's Dev Degree Program
  • IBM Canada Extreme Blue Internship Program
  • Facebook Canada University Internship Program
  • RBC Amplify Program
  • Telus Digital Internship Program
  • Hootsuite Internship Program
  • Conclusion and Next Steps for Aspiring Interns
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology for Selecting Top Tech Internships

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Alright, so when it comes to picking the top tech internships in Canada, we gotta be real thorough.

It's not just about the money, but about getting that solid experience to help you level up in your career. We looked at legit sources like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and company sites to get the full scoop on what these internship programs are offering.

The main things we kept an eye out for were decent pay, opportunities to learn, reputable companies, and mentorship.

A fat paycheck is nice, but it's also a sign that the company is invested in their interns. And let's be real, we want to get our hands dirty with cool projects, training, and cutting-edge tech to boost our skills.

Plus, interning at a company with a solid rep for innovation and treating employees right is a major flex.

Mentorship was a big deal too, since having an experienced pro to guide you can take your personal and professional growth to the next level.

Programs that had structured mentorship or dedicated mentors got major props. We also looked at other factors like internship length (more time means more exposure), chances for a full-time gig after, diversity and inclusion efforts, and flexibility with remote or hybrid options.

According to a survey by the Canadian Intern Association, 87% of interns said mentorship was key to their satisfaction, while 92% valued learning opportunities that aligned with their career goals.

And a report from Glassdoor showed that companies offering competitive pay and clear paths to full-time roles attracted top talent and kept more of their interns around.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Google Canada Internship Program

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Google's internship program in Canada is where it's at for anyone looking to level up in tech. These guys aren't playing around – they hook you up with mind-bending projects that'll push your skills to the max.

From coding to design, product management to data crunching, you'll get a front-row seat to how the big dogs operate.

But it's not just about the work.

Google's all about that mentorship game, pairing you up with seasoned pros who'll show you the ropes.

And let's not forget the perks – we're talking competitive pay, housing hookups, and access to all the coolest tech talks and networking events.

Now, let's keep it real – scoring one of these internships is no cake walk.

You gotta bring your A-game, with a killer academic record, technical chops, and a passion for Google's mission. But if you've got what it takes, the rewards are insane.

Just ask any former intern – they'll tell you straight up that this experience is a total game-changer, opening doors and giving you a glimpse into the future of tech.

Microsoft Canada Internship Program

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Microsoft Canada's got this sick internship program that'll set you up for success in the tech world.

It's called Explore Microsoft, and it's a 12-week summer gig specifically designed for first and second-year college students. You'll get to experience the entire product development cycle, from design to build to quality assurance.

Talk about hands-on experience, right?

But here's the catch – you gotta meet certain criteria to be eligible. You need to be in your second or first year of college, majoring in computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, or a related tech field.

And you'll have to show that you've completed an intro to computer science course and at least one semester of calculus. Oh, and the program is only open to students in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Check out the details here for the specific application links and deadlines.

Now, let's talk about what you can expect during the internship.

You'll be working in a small team, tackling a project for your assigned product group. This means you'll get exposure to the software development lifecycle, including design, build, and quality assurance.

Plus, you'll gain insights into the roles of software engineers, product managers, and technical program managers. It's like a crash course in the tech industry!

Microsoft also offers a Discovery Program for high school seniors interested in tech.

This 4-week internship gives you a taste of the design phase of product development and lets you explore customer pain points and unarticulated needs. It's a great way to dip your toes into the tech world before committing to a college major.

So, if you're passionate about technology and want to get your foot in the door at one of the biggest tech companies out there, these Microsoft internship programs are definitely worth checking out.

Just make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and prepare to impress during the application process. Good luck!

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Amazon Canada Internship Program

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If you're a tech geek looking to level up your skills and get some real-world experience, Amazon's internship game in Canada is where it's at! These hook you up with hands-on projects that put you in the driver's seat, letting you work on mind-blowing tech that impacts millions worldwide.

Whether you're into coding, crunching data, or managing products, their program has got your back.

The best part? You get to collaborate with top-notch professionals who are killing it in their fields.

They'll be your mentors, guiding you through the ropes and helping you flex those problem-solving muscles. Plus, the pay and perks are no joke – we're talking competitive salaries, sweet benefits, and even the possibility of scoring a full-time gig after the internship.

However, if you've got what it takes, you'll be working on cutting-edge projects that will make your resume shine brighter than a diamond.

From e-commerce to cloud computing and AI/ML, you'll be at the forefront of innovation, gaining invaluable experience that'll set you apart from the pack. So, if you're ready to step up your game, Amazon's internship program is the way to go!

Shopify Canada's Dev Degree Program

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Let me break it down for you about Shopify's Dev Degree program - it's the real deal, combining work and study in a way that'll have you leveling up like a boss.

For four years, you're getting paid to work at Shopify while earning your Computer Science degree. It's an immersive experience that'll make you stand out from the crowd.

The program covers all the essentials - algorithms, data structures, software design, web dev, you name it.

But the real kicker is the hands-on component where you'll be building legit production code at Shopify. In years 1 and 3, you'll be hitting the books hard at a partner university, but in years 2 and 4, you're working full-time at Shopify, rotating across different teams to gain that diverse experience.

To get in, you gotta be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and have completed at least one year of an undergrad Computer Science program.

Shopify is looking for problem-solvers who live and breathe coding. If that's you, - not only will you be earning a competitive salary during your work terms, but you'll also get dope benefits, mentorship from experienced engineers, relocation assistance (if needed), and a shot at landing a full-time gig at Shopify after graduation.

One Dev Degree alumni summed it up perfectly: "The program allowed me to gain invaluable real-world experience while earning a degree – it was the perfect hybrid of education and practical application." So, if you're serious about leveling up your tech skills and gaining that coveted industry experience, Shopify's Dev Degree program is definitely worth checking out.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

IBM Canada Extreme Blue Internship Program

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Richard Miller's Extreme Blue Internship is like the coolest thing ever for all you tech-savvy peeps. It's a 12-week global program where you get to work on some seriously next-level projects with IBM's top dogs.

We're talking cutting-edge stuff like AI, cloud computing, blockchain, and even quantum computing!

But it's not just about the tech. You'll also get to flex those leadership and business skills.

Only 2% of applicants make the cut, so you know it's legit. The application process is intense, with interviews, coding challenges, and all that jazz, but hey, that's how you know it's worth it.

Once you're in, you'll be working with cross-functional teams, conducting research, prototyping solutions, and even presenting your work to IBM's bigwigs and clients.

Talk about a real-world experience! And let's not forget the mentorship opportunities. You'll be learning from the best in the biz.

You'll also be raking in a sweet $7,500 CAD stipend, plus benefits.

Not too shabby, eh? And if that's not enough to convince you, alumni from the program have gone on to score full-time gigs at IBM, start their own companies, or even pursue graduate studies.

Talk about a launchpad for success!

So, if you're a tech-obsessed, ambitious go-getter looking for the ultimate internship experience, hop on the Extreme Blue train.

It's a ride you won't want to miss.

Facebook Canada University Internship Program

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The Meta University Internship Program is like a golden ticket for aspiring techies trying to make it big.

These professionals at Meta (the folks behind Facebook, Instagram, and more) are offering a 10-week immersive experience where you can dive headfirst into their cutting-edge tech and culture.

We're talking hands-on projects in AI, product design, software development, and data analytics – the whole nine yards!

But here's the catch, this gig is exclusively for first and second-year college students in the US, Canada, or Mexico, so if you fit the bill, you better start prepping.

They're all about representing diverse backgrounds, so don't be shy if you're from an underrepresented group. To apply, you'll need to bring your A-game with a solid resume, transcripts, and for the coding crew, a 70-minute coding challenge to flex those skills.

If you manage to snag one of these coveted spots, brace yourself for an experience that'll blow your mind.

You'll be rubbing shoulders with the brightest minds, diving into cutting-edge technologies, and maybe even landing yourself a sweet full-time gig at Meta after graduation.

It's a no-brainer, really – a chance to level up your career game and make some serious connections in the process. So, what are you waiting for? Get those applications in and show 'em what you're made of!

RBC Amplify Program

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You've probably heard of the RBC Amplify Program, right? It's the ultimate summer internship for students who want to level up their tech skills.

Let me break it down for you:

Amplify is a four-month innovation bootcamp where you team up with other students to tackle real business challenges faced by RBC. You'll work together to develop a game-changing solution, and at the end, pitch your product to RBC's executives.

It's an intense but rewarding experience.

The best part? You'll have access to mentors, subject matter experts, and all the resources you need to make your idea a reality.

Plus, you'll get hands-on training in Design Thinking, which is a creative problem-solving approach used by top companies. According to former Amplifier Jennifer Perez, "Be kind and help others.

Because when we work together, we can take on any challenge."

But it's not just about the project. Amplify is a chance to explore different career paths at RBC, from software development to data analytics and beyond.

You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how one of Canada's largest tech employers operates.

Applications for Amplify 2024 are now closed, but keep an eye out for updates on next year's program.

If you're passionate about innovation and want to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, this is an opportunity you don't want to miss.

Telus Digital Internship Program

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The Telus Digital Internship Program is a chance for tech-loving students to get real experience with one of Canada's biggest telecom companies.

As an intern, you'll be diving into cutting-edge projects, tackling challenges, and contributing to next-level digital solutions. From coding apps and analyzing data to beefing up cybersecurity and optimizing cloud systems, the opportunities are endless.

Past interns have worked on game-changing stuff like developing mobile apps, boosting network performance, and enhancing customer experiences through digital transformations.

To score this internship, you gotta be currently enrolled in a post-secondary program, preferably in a STEM field.

The application process is pretty intense, with multiple interviews and technical tests, so bring your A-game. If you make the cut, you'll land a paid 12-16 week internship with a stipend.

But that's not all – you'll also get:

  • Mentorship from seasoned pros
  • Networking and career development opportunities
  • Access to Telus' state-of-the-art facilities and resources
  • Potential for a full-time gig after graduation

"The Telus Digital Internship Program was a learning experience. I got to work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate with brilliant teams, and learn from industry legends. It was the perfect stepping stone towards my career goals." - William Rodriguez, former Telus Digital Intern

With a focus on innovation, mentorship, and professional growth, the Telus Digital Internship Program is for tech-savvy students looking to gain a competitive edge in the industry.

Hootsuite Internship Program

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Let me break it down for you about the Hootsuite Internship Program. It's a major opportunity to gain some legit experience in the tech world while working on real projects with their awesome teams.

As an intern, you could be involved in all sorts of cool stuff like product dev, engineering, marketing, and more.

You'd get to collaborate with different teams, do market research, analyze data to help with strategic decisions, and even develop new features for Hootsuite's social media management platform.

It's hands-on work that'll give you a taste of what it's like to work at a major tech company.

To be considered, you gotta be enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

The application process is pretty intense, with multiple interviews and technical assessments, so you'll need to bring your A-game. They're looking for candidates who can solve problems, code like a pro, and have a genuine passion for social media and tech.

If you make the cut, you'll be compensated with a solid stipend and benefits package.

We're talking anywhere from CAD 3,000 to CAD 4,500 per month, plus access to professional development opportunities, health and wellness benefits, and a bunch of cool social events and team-building activities.

Overall, the Hootsuite Internship Program is a sweet way to gain valuable industry experience, build your professional network, and develop the skills you need to succeed in the tech world.

As one former intern said,

"It was a unique opportunity to work on challenging projects, learn from experts, and contribute to a cutting-edge product."

Conclusion and Next Steps for Aspiring Interns

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Scoring a lit tech internship in Canada is the dream! It's the key to getting that hands-on experience, making connections with industry pros, and leveling up your career.

After checking out the top 10 programs from tech giants like IBM Canada, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, it's time to reflect and plan your next moves.

The real deal is finding an internship that vibes with your interests, skills, and career goals.

Look into the program's focus areas, company culture, mentorship opportunities, projects you'd work on, and the chance of scoring a full-time gig after. Don't sleep on the location, pay, and work-life balance either.

To stand out in the application game, start prepping early:

  1. Polish that resume and highlight relevant coursework, projects, and tech skills.
  2. Craft a killer cover letter that shows your passion, fit for the role, and what makes you unique.
  3. Practice coding challenges and data structures for those technical interviews.
  4. Hit up your campus career center, alumni network, or online resources for interview prep and application reviews.

Once you lock in that internship offer, it's go time! Set clear goals, seek out mentors, and immerse yourself in the company culture.

As one IBM Canada Extreme Blue intern shared, "The exposure to real-world projects and guidance from experienced pros was invaluable for shaping my career path."

A tech internship in Canada can be the launchpad you need, hooking you up with practical skills, industry insights, and a professional network to kickstart your journey towards a rewarding tech career.

Embrace the grind, learn from every experience, and keep exploring opportunities that align with your interests and goals. Check out these new internships at Tesla, GitHub, and Ticketmaster - these roles provide an avenue to contribute to the dynamic world of tech, foster valuable connections, and hone crucial industry skills for your future success.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why are tech internships important for students and recent graduates in Canada?

Tech internships are crucial because they allow students and recent graduates to apply their academic knowledge to real-world projects, gain industry experience, and build a professional network. Additionally, internships significantly improve competitiveness in the job market and can lead to full-time job opportunities.

What criteria were used to select the top tech internships in Canada?

The top tech internships were selected based on criteria such as competitive pay, learning opportunities, reputable companies, structured mentorship, and potential for full-time employment. Diversity, inclusion efforts, and flexibility regarding remote or hybrid work options were also considered.

What is unique about Google's Internship Program in Canada?

Google's Internship Program in Canada is renowned for offering challenging projects that stretch technical skills. It features a strong emphasis on mentorship, competitive compensation, housing options, and access to tech talks and networking events. This program provides a comprehensive learning experience at a leading tech company.

What can participants expect from Microsoft's Explore Internship Program?

Microsoft's Explore Internship Program offers hands-on experience over a 12-week period for first and second-year college students. Interns work within small teams to experience the full product development cycle and gain insights into various tech roles, providing foundational exposure to the industry.

What are the benefits of the Shopify Dev Degree Program?

The Shopify Dev Degree Program blends work with academics, allowing participants to earn a Computer Science degree while gaining practical experience at Shopify. Over four years, interns rotate through different teams, build production code, and benefit from mentorship, competitive pay, and eventual full-time opportunities.

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Chevas Balloun

Director of Marketing & Brand

Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.