Kesätyö: summer job

Detailed explanation

Finnish summer job culture is extensive and well-organized. Major employers across industries recruit summer workers through a structured hiring cycle that begins in autumn and peaks in January-March. Large companies like Nokia, KONE, Wärtsilä, and public sector organizations may receive thousands of applications for their summer positions. Many cities also run subsidized summer job programs for young people.

The application timeline is critical. Most large employers open summer job applications between October and January, with decisions made by March or April. Smaller companies and service sector employers may recruit later, through spring. The competition for summer jobs, especially in desirable fields and companies, is significant.

Summer workers in Finland receive the same employment protections as permanent employees. They are entitled to a written employment contract, salary according to the applicable collective agreement, and accumulation of annual leave days. Many collective agreements specify minimum pay levels for summer trainees and students.

How it affects expats

• •Early applications: Start searching and applying in October-January; waiting until spring means most positions are filled

• •Language requirements: Many summer jobs require at least basic Finnish, though IT, engineering, and some service roles may accept English-only applicants

• •Work permits: Non-EU students on a student residence permit can work full-time during summer holidays

• •Networking value: A Finnish summer job provides references, professional contacts, and local work experience that significantly improve future employment prospects

• •Tax considerations: Summer earnings are taxable; apply for a tax card from the Tax Administration before starting work

Where to find summer jobs

• •Duunitori.fi

• •Major Finnish job board with a summer jobs section

• •TE-palvelut (Job Market Finland)

• •Public employment service job listings

• •Company websites

• •Apply directly to organizations you are interested in

• •University career services

• •Often post summer job listings and host recruitment fairs

• •Aarresaari network

• •University career services network with job listings

• •LinkedIn

• •Increasingly used for professional summer positions in Finland

Related terms

• •Opiskelija (Student) — Student status in Finland and the benefits, rights, and working permissions it provides for internationals

• •Harjoittelu (Internship) — Workplace internship or practical training period that is part of many Finnish degree programs

• •Työsopimus (Employment Contract) — Legal agreement between employee and employer in Finland defining job duties, salary, working hours, and terms

• •Palkka (Salary) — Finnish term for salary or wages