Student opportunities

From: Communications Security Establishment Canada

CSE is hiring! Build connections that will last beyond your student years.

CSE student jobs are unlike most others.

Our students work on meaningful projects that have an impact on the country, and they build personal connections that last beyond their student years. Our main objective is to retain our students as full-time employees after their studies.

To be part of CSE’s student program you must be registered full-time in a Canadian college or university.

Our students work on challenging, interesting and unique projects which help keep our country safe from cyber threats. Every employee plays a key role in protecting Canada and Canadians while working with some of the most advanced technologies in the world. Where else can you say that at the end of every workday?

If you are interested in a student position with CSE, please note that you must submit your application approximately eight months prior to the start of your desired placement. Students at CSE must go through a rigorous security clearance process that takes approximately six months to complete.

Student job types

business administration
communications
computer science
engineering
events and training coordination
human resources
library and information studies/records management
mathematics
multi-media and web design
protective security administration
real property asset management
strategic policy
translation

Student testimonials

Mohamed - Developer

"I chose to do my co-op placement with CSE because of their mission to provide and protect information of national interest as well as to safeguard the security of all Canadians. As a co-op student, I felt that I was given the opportunity and tools to support CSE’s mission which was very fulfilling and was what got me excited to come to work every day. I also feel that CSE has an excellent mentorship and student program. The student program team organizes student orientation, information sessions about the various teams at CSE and career fairs to support students in their career.

Both teams I worked with were very supportive, inclusive and made me feel welcomed and valued which created a very enjoyable work environment for me. I learned a lot from my co-workers and felt that they too prioritized my personal and professional development. Apart from the work itself, I felt that I was able to maintain a very healthy work-life balance at CSE thanks to the sports facilities, YPN and co-op events and team outings. Overall, I very much enjoyed my time at CSE as a co-op because I felt I was able to contribute to an important and impactful mission while strengthening my technical and professional skills."

Mohamed - Student Developer

Marie-France - Tech expert

"Coming from a long line of military members, I have always been inclined towards working for CSE. Serving my country has always been top of mind but it wasn’t until my second interview with CSE that I quickly realized just how stand-out this organization is compared to others I had applied to in the past. Rather than the usual interview questions, we had a conversation about what I would actually be doing in this position and the technologies available.

CSE is a great place to work because of the people. Everyone that I have had contact with has always been extremely helpful and accommodating. My mentor is also a big part of why I think CSE is a great environment; he is always available and insightful whether it be work related questions or questions about my future and what it may hold if I continue to pursue a full time career at CSE. All these things combined, and knowing that my work is having a positive impact on my country, has made it an easy decision for me to return to CSE for another work term."

Marie-France - Student Tech expert

Haris - Systems administrator

"I have completed two work terms at CSE as a systems administrator and as a system developer. I’ve found the work very challenging and I’ve learned a lot. The access to leading-edge technology and many resources were certainly factors that made the experience even more interesting.

I really enjoyed the work environment as the employees (especially in my team) were very open minded and dynamic. I wasn’t afraid to ask questions or to suggest new ideas. My colleagues made me feel part of the group very quickly. Also, CSE is a great work environment with many fun events often happening, such as celebrations and information and networking sessions.

I believe that choosing CSE for a co-op placement is an excellent choice because it offers a variety of positions in many different disciplines and the learning opportunities seem endless. During my work terms, I was able to explore the various career paths in tech which helped shape my future career aspirations. As a result, I would definitely consider a future work term and a full-time career at CSE."

Haris - Student Systems administrator