Highest Record Job Vacancies & Wages are Increasing | Work in Canada

As job vacancies in Canada change, aspiring immigrants and job seekers must focus on growing industries. According to Statistics Canada, there were 546,100 vacant jobs at the end of Q3 2024. This marks the ninth consecutive quarterly decline from a record high of 983,600 vacancies in Q2 2022.

This trend highlights high-demand occupations, offering better opportunities for candidates seeking Canadian permanent residency or employment.

Understanding the Current Job Market in Canada

In the third quarter of 2024, job vacancies decreased across both permanent and temporary roles. Permanent positions fell by 27,800 (5.9%), while temporary roles dropped by 4,100 (4.0%). Additionally, both full-time and part-time jobs experienced declines of 19,300 (4.5%) and 12,600 (8.5%), respectively.

The unemployment-to-job vacancy ratio rose to 2.6. This means 2.6 unemployed persons compete for every job vacancy, compared to 2 in Q1 2024. Notably, job vacancies decreased in four major occupational groups:

• Sales and Service: -12,500 (-7.4%)
• Health Occupations: -8,200 (-9.5%)
• Trades, Transport, and Equipment Operators: -6,900 (-6.6%)
• Manufacturing and Utilities: -3,100 (-16.1%)

Despite these declines, some sectors are witnessing significant growth in job opportunities.

Top 10 Occupations with the Highest Job Vacancies

For job seekers, focusing on occupations with increasing vacancies can enhance career prospects. Here are the top roles currently available:

1. Food Counter Attendants: 30,130 vacancies, $16.85/hour
2. Registered Nurses: 23,905 vacancies, $35.40/hour
3. Retail Salespersons: 19,970 vacancies, $17.55/hour
4. Nurse Aides: 17,170 vacancies, $24.15/hour
5. Cooks: 13,820 vacancies, $19.10/hour
6. Transport Truck Drivers: 13,170 vacancies, $27.10/hour
7. Construction Trades Helpers: 12,285 vacancies, $23.45/hour
8. Social Service Workers: 10,860 vacancies, $24.80/hour
9. Licensed Practical Nurses: 10,615 vacancies, $30.05/hour
10. Food and Beverage Servers: 9,575 vacancies, $16.00/hour

Focusing on sectors like logistics, healthcare, and education can lead to better employment outcomes.

Occupations with the Largest Annual Increases in Job Vacancies

Here are the roles with the most significant annual increases in vacancies:

• Firefighters: 1,170 vacancies, $37.65/hour (93.4% increase)
• Instructors for Persons with Disabilities: 1,170 vacancies, $26.65/hour (74.6% increase)
• Production and Transportation Coordinators: 915 vacancies, $29.50/hour (72.6% increase)
• Financial Advisors: 1,740 vacancies, $32.80/hour (54.7% increase)
• Civil Engineers: 2,590 vacancies, $44.90/hour (38.1% increase)

Understanding these trends helps job seekers align their skills with market demands, ensuring long-term career stability in Canada.

Annual Decrease in Job Vacancies

Conversely, some occupations have seen significant decreases in vacancies:

• Store Shelf Stockers: 6,595 vacancies, $16.20/hour (-41.3%)
• Food Counter Attendants: 30,130 vacancies, $16.85/hour (-36.5%)
• Transport Truck Drivers: 13,170 vacancies, $27.10/hour (-34.6%)

Current Unemployment Rate

As of November 2024, Canada’s unemployment rate stands at 6.8%. Newfoundland and Labrador report the highest unemployment rate at 10.8%, while Saskatchewan has the lowest at 5.6%.

By focusing on in-demand fields, candidates can secure roles that contribute to Canada’s evolving economy. With strategic planning and preparation, job seekers can enhance their chances of success in a competitive job market.