There are fewer summer job opportunities in Finland this year, according to data from a job search platform.
"The number of summer jobs dropped significantly even last year when compared to past years. Unfortunately, the situation is even worse now," said Aino Salonen, communications director at job portal Duunitori.
For example, Duunitori had 18,900 summer job listings between November 2024 and March 2025, which was three percent fewer than the same period last year.
The number of listings has dropped by 33 percent compared to two years ago, when 28,200 summer job postings were published.
Older applicants for summer jobs
Broader uncertainty in the employment market is also impacting summer jobs. Overall, listings for 2025 have been about 30 percent lower compared to the same time last year.
Amid the decrease in summer job postings, the number of people looking for openings remains high. According to Salonen, the number of views on summer job listings has increased by as much as 44 percent compared to last year.
Due to the weak economy and high unemployment, young people are now competing with older individuals for short-term summer jobs. In other words, older applicants are increasingly seeking seasonal work, according to a summer job survey by Duunitori.
The country's unemployment rate rose to 9.5 percent in January, totalling 269,000 unemployed individuals, according to Statistics Finland.
First positions filled
The summer job season is still ongoing, with positions actively posted throughout spring and into early summer.
Most openings are in the restaurant and tourism industries, sales and retail, manufacturing, technology, social services, as well as the construction sector.
At Fazer’s factories in Vantaa, summer job applications have surged. The company hires several hundred summer and seasonal workers each year and is already making selections. While some positions remain open, seasonal jobs begin as early as April.
"We've had a record number of applicants this year, even a couple of thousand," said Anu Salomaa, Head of HR at Fazer Bakery Finland.
At Fazer's Vantaa factory, summer workers can work in chocolate production, baking, packaging, warehouse logistics, or quality assurance. Cafe positions are also available.
"Summer workers are needed to allow our permanent staff to take their vacations. We also have peak seasons, such as Christmas and Easter, when we need extra help. We also consider it important to offer young people work opportunities."
Salomaa advised young job seekers to express their interest in the roles they apply for, as well as highlight their strengths and relevant experience. She suggested that those lacking work experience can demonstrate initiative by telling employers about their hobbies, for example.
"Answer the phone when we call to offer a job — this ensures the position isn't lost because of a missed call," Salomaa said.
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