Canada’s economy is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, and restrictions, lockdowns and curfews are expected to be eventually lifted.
As the pandemic began creeping in, many businesses started to adapt and make changes. Many employees started working from home. Businesses began using online collaboration and video-calling platforms. Other businesses that require physical attendance implement health and safety policies consistent with the government’s advice, such as wearing face masks and maintaining physical distancing.
Beside these changes, there is a significant number of people who have lost their jobs as a consequence of the pandemic. This may be because certain sectors have become fairly dormant due to restrictions and lockdowns. This however is projected to change in the second half of the year.
It is time to look forward. More than two thirds of Canadian employers plan to rehire employees who were laid off due to the pandemic, and experts are starting to predict the outlook for 2021.
Randstad Canada, a human resources consulting firm, released its predictions for 2021 on the top jobs in Canada. According to Randstad, a great number of jobs will be in high demand and those with a specialized skill set have a good chance of gaining employment in 2021.
Top jobs in Canada for 2021
The following are some of the positions that are expected to be in high-demand throughout 2021, according to Randstand:
- Customer Service Representative
The need for customer service representatives dramatically increased as a result of the pandemic. They deal with customers who may be emotionally distressed. These customers expect to speak to a real person who can professionally handle their situation. Refunds and cancellations can only do so much.
- Driver
This one may come as no surprise. Drivers of all types are in high-demand due to the pandemic, especially truck drivers, many of whom are responsible for delivering medical supplies to hospitals and essential goods to stores across Canada.
- Registered nurse
There was already a shortage of registered nurses pre-coronavirus. The pandemic only amplified the need of nurses because of an increase in patients who require critical care. It is estimated that Canada will need 60,000 nurses by 2022 to help with the aging population.
- General labourer
There exists a need for general labourers across the country. If you are interested, there are more positions available than employers are able to fill.
- Electrical engineer
Electrical engineers are in high demand as various companies depend on complex communications system to remain operational throughout the pandemic. Demand is particularly high for electrical engineers with a diverse skillset that goes beyond the technical skills, such as communication skills and writing skills.
- Software developer
There are two reasons for why software developers are in need: employees continuing to work from home, and the increasing popularity of ecommerce. Individuals who can code, design and build applications and websites may be able to find employment in Canada.
- Accountant
In times of financial inconsistency, accountants are particularly sought-after. Accountants are able to advise businesses on issues such as accessing government funding and financial tax breaks. They also help businesses make important decisions regarding growth.
- HR manager
Crucial for businesses to stay afloat during the pandemic, HR managers develop relevant HR policies such as remote work policies and health and safety policies. They are also responsible for keeping up the morale of the employees during such a difficult time.
- Financial advisor
With plenty of individuals feeling less financially secure as a direct result of the pandemic, it is understandable that financial advisors are on this list. They offer support and advice to said individuals who may be facing difficulty in mortgage or rent payments, as well as debt.
- Tech Sector
With or without the pandemic, labour shortages exist in the technology sector. For this reason, there are immigration programs in Ontario and British Columbia that focus on recruiting for the technology sector. Immigrants are influential in growing the sector in Canada. Tech talent is in high demand particularly in major urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver and Montréal.