Ontario’s Most-In-Demand Jobs in Light of the Pandemic

The pandemic has changed the job market overnight, affecting industries across the board ranging from tech to manufacturing. Canada’s job market is much different than it was just one year ago.

The massive shift to remote work, widespread use of digital collaboration tools, new and improved health and safety policies, and updated office and workplace layouts have all led to a surge in demand for many jobs.

According to CIC News, (Canada’s largest immigration news website run by CandaVisa) the following are some of the occupations that have increased in demand during the pandemic. They are listed in order of their National Occupational Classification NOC code.

For more on specific job prospects, the federal government offers a trend analysis tool where jobseekers can view the trends in their own occupations of interest.

Advertising, marketing and public relations managers (NOC 0124)

Long gone are the days of heavy investment in traditional advertising. The pandemic has challenged everyone to think more digital and spend most of their budget on digital ads. Therefore, there is an increase in job opportunities for those with knowledge of all things digital marketing.

Computer and information systems managers (NOC 0213)

Working from home is the new norm and remote work is here to stay. This has made companies reliant on computer and information systems managers. Also, more virtual services such as e-commerce, medical appointments, job fairs and others could call for more IT workers. As such, tech professionals are in high demand as firms adjust to the online environment.

Biologists and related scientists (NOC 2121)

These workers include immunologists, virologists, bio-information workers and pharmacologists who are researching COVID-19.The research and development of more vaccines and treatments is only expected to continue and now that we have experienced a pandemic first hand, the increased awareness is likely to drive more virus research opportunities.

Information systems analysts and consultants (NOC 2171)

Information systems analysts and consultants have been crucial to helping companies transition to remote work. More companies are expanding products and services online. Digital processes are growing and so is the risk of cyber-security breaches. Also, artificial intelligence analysts may see more job openings due to increased interest in using AI solutions for various lines of business.

Database analysts and data administrators (NOC 2172)

Throughout the pandemic, case tracking and COVID-19 data analysis has been high priority. A continued interest in COVID-19 data and analysis will support these job opportunities. Furthermore, concerns are high regarding data collection, storage, and management following more demand for virtual health and social services.

Computer programmers and interactive media developers (NOC 2174)

At the beginning of the pandemic, these workers were in demand to help design COVID-related digital media to support broadcasting information. In Ontario, the provincial government is working towards creating digital resources for online learning which will support opportunities for these workers, especially as the global e-learning market grows.

Web designers and developers (NOC 2175)

Web designers and developers are so important in building COVID-19-related websites to help broadcast information. The trend toward online shopping will support job opportunities for workers in this field. Also, more virtual services, such as medical appointments, may also support these jobs.

Medical laboratory technologists (NOC 3211)

There was a shortage of lab techs even before the pandemic due to a high number of retirees and a low number of new grads available to take their place. The coronavirus outbreak has made the supply of these workers even more scarce, even though the number of employees in the field has increased. Ontario is funding a new program to train laboratory workers to reduce the workload for certified medical laboratory technologists and their assistants.

Graphic Designers and Illustrators (NOC 5241)

With more digital products comes more job opportunities for graphic designers and illustrators. Particularly in creating content and graphics for e-commerce platforms, online banking, and e-learning.

As you might have noticed, five of the jobs listed start with a number “2” and they belong to the “Natural and applied sciences and related occupations” occupational category according to the Canadian NOC. Four of those jobs are directly related to the IT industry — demonstrating Canada’s interest and active growth in the tech sector.

Interested in Canadian employment opportunities? Check out the Employment section in the VisaWire app! It has various relevant resources including job boards and guides for finding employment in Canadian tech startups and other industries.