Top 10 Jobs in Canada During COVID-19

While days lengthen into weeks, many people may be wondering exactly how to ride out this wave of job loss and layoffs. According to GlobalNews, as of March 24th, nearly one million people applied for employment insurance. Due to necessary changes in the professional world to address CoVID-19 some professional opportunities may not have otherwise been available. 

Below is a list of 10 positions professionals may want to consider during this period.

1. Healthcare Provider

At the top of our available positions, we have healthcare providers. Due to CoVID-19, there is currently a large need for support within our health institutions. This is not exclusive to hospitals, as positions for caregivers, home support workers and long-term care facilities open up. Provincial websites such as Health Careers in Saskatchewan can help find placements.  

2. Non-clinical Healthcare Worker

For those without necessary medical credentials but interested in supporting the front-lines, there is a call for non-clinical workers. Supply warehouses require supervisors, distributors, inventory and merchandising. Provincial resources such as PHSA can aid in finding non-clinical positions within your province. Though some positions require experience or education there are entry-level positions available for those looking for supplemental work in this season. 

3. Pharmacist

Companies such as Loblaws and Sobey’s need support in areas other than their grocery section. Pharmaceutical departments within cross-country chains such as Superstore and Safeway are looking for pharmacists to help with the increasing demand. 

4. Information Technology (IT) 

This is a great time for people looking to break into the IT sector. As many businesses increase their online presence or move online entirely, there is a corresponding need for support within the technology world. 

5. Management

With an increase in product demand, comes an increase in staff, comes an increase in management need. If your talent lies more in operations or management we encourage you to look at management positions within businesses that are experiencing increased demand for their services such as Amazon. 

6. Customer Service Representative

As many layoffs have occurred within the hospitality industry, consider taking those service-oriented soft-skills into the customer service world. There are many companies hiring customer support representatives, including stay-at-home positions. Many businesses are hoping to increase their customer support as platforms and services are flooded with requests. 

7. Sales Associate

Though many of the layoffs and hourly cuts have come from within retail, business is booming for some lucky companies. Grocery chains, essential service suppliers and others are actively searching for employees to meet the needs of Canadians, with many companies raising their hourly wage. The Retail Council of Canada is actively tracking retail positions available across the country.  

8. Delivery Service

Experience driving commercial vehicles has never been as needed as it is now. Grocery delivery, restaurant delivery, online retail orders, and warehouse transportation services are all available for drivers. With the threat of CoVID-19 looming, there have been reports of truck drivers retiring early or taking leave due to their increased risk of health complications, creating an opening for those interested in this line of work. 

9. Automotive Service Technician

Along with an increased need for commercial drivers will come an increased need for vehicle technicians. According to BC, this is considered a high opportunity industry – now may be your chance to shine. If you’ve got auto technician experience or education, check out the Canadian job bank with automotive technician listings. 

10. Governmental Services

The Canadian government has made a list of needed services in response to CoVID-19. The services include jobs already listed such as healthcare providers but also ask for services such as security, accommodation maintenance and laundry. 

Though this pandemic has rocked economy, business, and employment all over the world there has also been an inspiring rise in support and community. Businesses and organizations are coming up with ways to specifically address the CoVID-19 crisis and support the workforce. We hope that this season becomes an opportunity for you, so stay calm, think positively, and brush up on those interviewing skills. 

About the Author

Simon Chou is the Vice President of Operations and Growth at BCjobs.ca. Over the course of his career, he carved a niche in brand development,  marketing strategy, and online presence for startups. Prior to BC Jobs, he served as a marketing advisor for high-profile blockchain projects including Litecoin, NEM and Ripple. He’s also worked with fortune 500 companies in the healthcare space.