Most In-Demand Jobs In Canada for 2024

Table of Contents

Why Does It Matter What Jobs Are In Demand

The Most In-Demand Jobs in Canada

• 1. Electrical Engineer
• 2. Aerospace Engineer
• 3. Software Engineer
• 4. Human Resources Manager
• 5. Web Developer
• 6. Veterinarian
• 7. Recruiter
• 8. Financial Advisor
• 9. Pharmacist
• 10. Welder
• 11. General Labourer
• 12. Industrial Electrician
• 13. Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic
• 14. Administrative Assistant
• 15. Receptionist
• 16. Merchandiser
• 17. Driver
• 18. Project Manager
• 19. Account Manager
• 20. Business Development Manager
• 21. Accountant
• 22. Registered Nurse (RN)
• 23. University Professor
• 24. Information Technology Project Manager
• 25. Optician

Emerging Jobs in Canada

In-Demand Jobs in Canada Due to COVID-19

FAQ’s

Why Does It Matter What Jobs Are In-Demand?

When searching for a job, you may want to be strategic and choose a job in a high-demand industry to increase job security, or perhaps you want to see what your chances are in your desired role. Certain positions top this list year after year, while others are newer additions and their industries are in a stage of rapid growth.

These job opportunities will be easier to find and then build and develop your career in. It is also important to note that the recent pandemic has affected some of the jobs that are in demand right now, making essential worker positions some of the most sought after professionals. Read on for more information on some of Canada’s most in-demand career options.

For reference, the NOC code refers to the National Occupation Classification which classifies job types, skill level types and describes occupations.

If you are interested in a particular job and want more information you can use the code to get all of the information that the government of Canada has on that role by using that code on their website.

If you are looking for a more specific list of In-demand jobs in Alberta you can check out our new post here.

The Most In-Demand Jobs In Canada Heading Into 2024

Here is a list of the jobs that are highly in-demand in Canada. We also list out emerging jobs, and jobs that have increased job growth due to Covid. At the bottom, there will be a Frequently Asked Questions section to provide more insight. If you are actively looking for work take a look at the About Staffing Job Postings.

Number 1:

Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineer positions require the candidate to design, analyze, and specify electrical systems. These systems are also constructed and tested by electrical engineers. Those who are working in this type of role are expected to maintain these systems and components to ensure that they operate safely. This position typically requires a higher level of education.

• Electrical Engineer Average Salary: CAD 91,832
• NOC Code: 2133
• Related Occupation: Electrical and Electronics Engineers

Number 2:

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace engineers work with both aerospace vehicles, such as rockets, and aerospace systems. Their duties cover the design, research, testing, development, and then maintenance of these vehicles and systems. This is a highly demanded job in Canada, but also requires much more education than some of the other jobs on this list. Because of this, aerospace engineering is also one of the highest-paid jobs on the list.

• Aerospace Engineer Average Salary: CAD 98,347
• NOC Code: 2146
• Related Occupation: Aircraft Engineers, Aeronautical Engineer, Spacecraft Design Engineer

Number 3:

Software Engineer

Software engineering is one of the jobs that is seeing more rapid growth in the past few years. In fact, coding jobs have been one of the most in-demand positions in Canada for the last two years. Previously, it likely would not have made this list! When thinking of software engineers, you may assume this requires working for a tech company, but this is not the case. This is a position that can be found in many different spaces, as companies of all types implement computer, mobile, and web programs. To become a software engineer, you must learn coding and app design.

• Software Engineer Average Salary: CAD 100,562
• NOC Code: 2173
• Related Occupation: Data Scientist, Cyber Security, Software Developers, Data Analysts

Number 4:

Human Resources Manager

Human Resource (or HR) managers are responsible for recruiting and managing people. They ensure that the candidates hired are properly vetted and are of the calibre that the employer is looking for, and they are typically very involved in the interviewing and ensuing hiring process. Once the hire is made, they also assist with onboarding, certain basic training, and are a resource in the case of any workplace issues or concerns. Many describe this job as “managing people”.

• Human Resources Manager Average Salary: CAD 89,003
• NOC Code: 0112
• Related Occupation: Administrative Assistant, Project Manager

Number 5:

Web Developer

A web developer is a job that might not have even existed earlier in the lives of some job seekers. It is a newer job that is one of the most in-demand; this need is clear when you think of how huge the internet has become! These developers are those who specialize in developing applications or programs. In this role you can find a job in spaces from a small or large business to a corporation– to even in the federal government!

There are specific skills required to be this kind of developer, such as knowledge of program languages like JavaScript and a strong knowledge of coding. Those who work with search engine optimization (SEO) and digital marketing, are also in similar roles and of similar demand.

• Web Developer Average Salary: CAD 69,305
• NOC Code: 2175
• Related Occupations: Web Designer, Webmaster, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialist, Digital Marketer.

Number 6:

Veterinarian

While many Canadian families have a furry friend– or maybe a not-so furry pet–, the number of vets in the country is low. Due to this, veterinary jobs have been in high demand for the past several years. Vets take care of our pets by providing treatments, routine checkups, and filling prescriptions. In order to become a vet, you must get a degree from a veterinary school. This school must also have the proper approval. Once you have a degree, you will then need to have a license, because this is a provincially regulated occupation. While there are a lot of steps involved before you can begin practicing, this is a highly sought and highly paid position in Canada.

• Veterinarian Average Salary: CAD 95,804
• NOC Code: 3114
• Related Occupations: Veterinary Technician, Wildlife Specialist, Animal Rescue

Number 7:

Recruiter

A recruiter sometimes referred to as a recruitment officer, is someone who works with companies to find and refer candidates to fill their job openings. This is important for businesses that are growing, and also for businesses that are in industries with high turnover rates. Recruiters need to have solid people skills since they will be interacting with both job-seekers and employers in their day-to-day work. In Canada, to be a recruiter you need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a field such as human resources or human relations. You can also register as a professional recruiter, which is not required but may better your chances.

• Recruiter Average Salary: CAD 65,292
• NOC Code: 1223
• Related Occupation: Human Resources Professional, Head Hunter

Number 8:

Financial Advisor

Financial advisors give advice to either an individual or a family on financial topics. They help people to manage their money and plan for their futures. If a financial planner works at a bank, they may also promote the services and products that the bank offers when giving this sort of financial advice. Of course, a financial planning job requires candidates to be well-versed in business and personal finance. Financial advice is becoming increasingly important in Canada’s economy.

• Financial Advisor Average Salary: CAD 62,971
• NOC Code: 0111, 1114
• Related Occupation: Financial Managers, Other Financial Officers, Financial Sales Representative

Number 9:

Pharmacist

If you are a pharmacist, you have a few different options. You could choose to work in a pharmacy, a hospital, or a drugstore, for example. Pharmacists, by their most basic definition, work with programs that are designed to promote well-being and health. You may recall seeing a pharmacist at the local drugstore when you are filling a prescription– this is a common placement and duty of someone who is working in this sort of position. A pharmacist is paid highly but is paid hourly, rather than salaried.

• Pharmacist Average Salary: CAD 89,314
• NOC Code: 3131
• Related Occupations: Pharmaceutical Research Technician, Laboratory Technician

Number 10:

Welder

Welders have the talent of working with metal. This is not something that requires a formal degree but is still well paid and in high demand. It does still require knowledge and technique, but that is something that is typically learned through an apprenticeship or trade school. Trades are also among some of the more in-demand jobs because fewer young people have entered the trades in recent years. Welders are a skilled worker trade meaning the demand is much higher than other trades.

• Welder Average Salary: CAD 73,504
• NOC Code: 7327
• Related Occupation: Welders and Related Machine Operators

Number 11:

General Labourer

General labourers work in construction; they move materials and equipment on the job, as well as prepare and then clean up the job site. Some of the construction tasks that can be filled by a general labourer include demolition, excavation, and compacting. Although these roles are considered lower-skill jobs they are typically hard work and can earn a good amount in average pay. Being that on-site is usually mandatory these positions are far removed from the possibility of remote work.

• General Laborer Average Salary: CAD 47,678
• NOC Code: 7611
• Related Occupation: Construction Trade Helpers and Labourers, Construction Craft Worker

Number 12:

Industrial Electrician

A job in the trades, such as an industrial electrician position, can be a very lucrative career and is always in demand. As with other trade jobs, you do not need a formal degree for a job as an electrician, though you will need the proper on-the-job training. The pay rate for an electrician will vary, depending on the province or territory that the position is in. For example, the electricians in Ontario and British Columbia have some of the highest pay rates among Canadian electrician positions.

• Industrial Electrician Average Salary: CAD 83,671
• NOC Code: 7242
• Related Occupations: Electrician, Electrical Engineer

Number 13:

Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic

A heavy-duty equipment mechanic has many responsibilities that pertain to the care and upkeep of their employer’s equipment. They repair, maintain, and overhaul industrial machinery. This machinery is typically classified by the fact that it is very large and either connected to or moved by a power unit. Some of the industries in which a heavy-duty equipment mechanic can find work in Canada are the energy and manufacturing industries.

• Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic Average Salary: CAD 82,864
• NOC Code: 7312
• Related Occupation: Heavy equipment technician, Agricultural equipment technician

Number 14:

Administrative Assistant

This is primarily a support role and is often used as an entry-level stepping stone into a company or career field. An administrative assistant’s job usually does not require a formal degree. Many of these positions provide assistance with clerical tasks such as scheduling, communications, or accounting. Depending on the company the responsibilities of this role can vary with most administrative positions dipping into a little bit of everything.

• Administrative Assistant Average Salary: CAD 45,927
• NOC Code: 1241
• Related Occupations: Support Desk Specialists, Executive Assistant

Number 15:

Receptionist

A receptionist position is similar to that of an administrative assistant, and sometimes these job duties can overlap. A receptionist position is often also an entry-level position, so great for a younger person or for someone trying to get into a new industry. Receptionists require customer service and client relationship skills, since they are usually the first point of contact in a company for a customer. They are also tasked with providing a good first impression on everyone who enters the establishment.

• Receptionist Average Salary: CAD 31,304
• NOC Code: 1414
• Related Occupations: Customer Service Representative, Customer Relations, Administrative assistants

Number 16:

Merchandiser

A merchandiser is typically someone who works for a retail store. This career handles making the decisions on what to purchase for a store, as well as what inventory to send to which stores, if this is a company that has a chain of stores. Merchandisers also handle deciding where and how the product is placed, such as what products are placed facing outwards on an endcap. Sometimes, a merchandiser can work directly in the store, but more often, they work on the corporate end. Even with a huge demand for online shopping, this role continues to have an increased need.

• Merchandiser Average Salary: CAD 48,610
• NOC Code: 6222
• Related Occupation: Retail and Wholesale Buyers, Retail Stores

Number 17:

Driver

“Driver” can refer to many different industries and categories. For example, there are delivery drivers, forklift drivers, truck drivers, and long-haul drivers. When it comes to most driving jobs, drivers will need their commercial driving license. This is necessary for many of the larger vehicles that are part of the job. You must also be certified if you will be driving a forklift, and this requires a specific forklift driving certification. Truck drivers especially are always in demand in Canada due to the scale of the country.

• Driver Average Salary: CAD 44,836
• NOC Codes: 7511, 7521, 7452
• Related Occupations: Transport Truck drivers, Commercial Truck Driver

Number 18:

Project Manager

A project manager has typical management responsibilities, such as managing people and delegating. Those in this career field must possess a variety of knowledge across topics such as managing budgets and managing people. To become one, you can also become certified by getting a Project Management Professional certification.

• Project Manager Average Salary: CAD 91,425
• NOC Codes: 0211, 0213, 0711, 1221
• Related Occupations: General Manager, Business Analyst, Program Manager, Supply Chain

Number 19:

Account Manager

The primary focus of an account manager is building and fostering client relationships. This may be relationships with pre-existing clients or new clients. A lot of the time, account management salaries are supplemented by sales commissions. Employers who are looking to hire account managers usually favor candidates who have sales experience or have experience with CRM, which is also known as Customer Relationship Management software.

• Account Manager Average Salary: CAD 86,104
• NOC Code: 4163
• Related Occupations: Customer Relations, Client Relations

Number 20:

Business Development Manager

Business development manager is a term that can be very broad. Those who are in this position have several duties including vetting client prospects and assisting the sales team in closing deals. A business development manager also takes on some of the typical managerial duties that come up in most manager positions, and they may help to design and implement strategies within a company. Typically a degree in business administration is required.

• Business Development Manager Average Salary: CAD 84,003
• NOC Code: 4163
• Related Occupations: Business development officers and marketing researchers and consultants

Number 21:

Accountant

An accountant has an important job within a company and is such a highly sought-after position because every company relies on and focuses on financial information. Accountants have financial expertise, keep financial records, and oversee budgets, revenue, and expenses. They are also divided into different fields of specialization, including auditing and taxation among others. Job titles can include a number of positions including chartered professional accountants who are typically in the highest demand.

• Accountant Average Salary: CAD 59,100
• NOC Code:  0111, 1111
• Related Occupations: Financial Advisor, Operations Manager, Chartered Professional Accountant

Number 22:

Registered Nurse (RN)

The health care system is a crucial industry that affects how our country works and how our community functions. The recent COVID pandemic has shown us that we need more nurses. Since good healthcare is a priority in Canada, it makes sense why registered nurses are one of the most in-demand jobs here. To work as a registered nurse, you must first acquire a bachelor’s degree and then register with the nursing territorial and regulatory authority. Registered Nurse is a role that will continue to maintain its demand regardless of the pandemic, and will likely not experience labour shortages after the pandemic either.

• Registered Nurse Average Salary: CAD 77,603
• NOC Code: 3012
• Related Occupations: Doctor, Nurse

Number 23:

University Professor and Lecturer

Becoming a professor is not necessarily an entry-level position, but for someone who has teaching experience and experience with the subject matter, this could be a rewarding career path. It is easier to become a lecturer than a professor, though the difference between the two is typically based upon a person’s experience and has to do with their course load. There are many universities in Canada with opportunities for open positions.

• University Lecturer Average Salary: CAD 83,584
• University Professor Average Salary: CAD 100,300
• NOC Code: 4011
• Related Occupations: Teacher, College Professor

Number 24:

Information Technology (IT) Project Manager

All IT jobs are in high demand; an IT project manager is one such position. The responsibilities of this job include overseeing the planning, executing, and delegating of their organization’s information technology pursuits and goals. IT positions are open in many different industries, since most industries rely on computing technologies in some way. Therefore, if you have computer skills, a position in IT can be a great way to get into an industry that interests you, while still relying on your skills to do so.

• IT Project Manager Average Salary: CAD 83,147
• Related Occupations: IT Technician, Software Engineer

Number 25:

Optician

If you have less than perfect eyesight, chances are that you have seen an optician. More and more people are finding that they suffer from eye issues, as we interact more with screens and electronics. Currently, about 70% of Canadians use eyeglasses, and as these issues rise, so will the number of patients. The number of opticians of course needs to match the need for eye care, so this is an industry with growth potential. To become an optician, you will have to pass the National Optical Sciences Examinations, as well as register in your local regulatory body once you pass.

• Optician Average Salary: CAD 47,400
• NOC Code: 3231
• Related Occupations: Audiologist, Orthoptist

Emerging Jobs in Canada

Many of the new and emerging career opportunities reflect the strides that we as a society are making in technology. In fact, most of the following career paths intersect with technology in some way, from artificial intelligence (AI) to data sciences. Take a look at the below to learn more about some of Canada’s top emerging jobs. These emerging jobs in technology also account for the future decrease in other industries as automation becomes more mainstream in the world.

• Cybersecurity specialist
• Systems auditor
• Chief experience officer
• Information systems testing technicians
• 3D architect
• Automation engineer
• Artificial intelligence researcher
• DevOps engineer
• Systems security analyst
• Live chat agent
• Data scientist
• Environmental engineer
• Blockchain developer
• Cyber forensic investigator

In-Demand Jobs in Canada Due to COVID-19

A lot of jobs in Canada are emerging in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These include positions in healthcare and essential services. Delivery drivers are also more in demand than normal as companies work to support increased online orders and deliveries. Many companies have transitioned to a work-from-home model, making it desirable for both employers and employees if the candidate is able to work remotely. This has made remote positions highly sought after by job-seekers as well. Here are some of Canada’s top jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Social workers
• Paramedical occupations
• Licensed practical nurses
• Retail store employees
• Delivery drivers
• Home support workers, housekeepers, cleaners, etc.
• Comfort care aides in long-term care facilities
• Medical lab technicians, pathologists, or phlebotomists
• Laborers in food, beverage, and associated products processing