Canada’s Job Market Transformation: What’s Driving Growth Through 2035
Canada’s employment landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation driven by five powerful forces: an aging population, rapid technological advancement, expanding healthcare demands, climate adaptation needs, and widespread digital transformation. These factors are reshaping which careers will dominate the next decade, creating unprecedented opportunities for job seekers while presenting recruitment challenges for employers.
According to national labour market projections and the newly released Leaky Bucket 2025 report, employment growth won’t be evenly distributed across sectors. Certain occupations will expand at significantly higher rates than others, with many high-growth fields also experiencing elevated onward migration—meaning skilled workers sometimes leave Canada for opportunities elsewhere.
This comprehensive analysis examines the 20 occupations projected to see the highest employment growth in Canada through 2035, spanning technology, healthcare, logistics, engineering, data science, public service, and cultural sectors. Whether you’re a job seeker, student, newcomer, or employer, this guide provides actionable insights into careers that will shape Canada’s economic future.
Understanding Onward Migration: A Critical Factor
Before diving into specific occupations, it’s important to understand “onward migration”—the phenomenon where skilled immigrants and workers leave Canada for opportunities in other countries. The Leaky Bucket 2025 report reveals that some of Canada’s fastest-growing occupations also face the highest talent retention challenges:
- Low Migration Risk: Less than 5% leave within 15 years
- Moderate Migration Risk: 5-12% leave within 15 years
- High Migration Risk: 15-25% leave within 15 years
This dual pattern of high growth and high mobility creates both opportunities and challenges for Canada’s labour market.
Top 20 Highest-Growth Jobs in Canada Through 2035
1. Data Scientists, Mathematicians, Statisticians and Actuaries
Growth Outlook: Fastest-growing occupation group in Canada Onward Migration: High (7% at 5 years, 17-19% at 15 years, 19-21% at 25 years) Average Salary Range: $75,000 – $150,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Data scientists and related professionals are experiencing explosive demand as every major Canadian sector increases investment in quantitative analysis. Retailers rely on demand forecasting, hospitals use predictive modeling for patient management, banks design risk algorithms, governments need data for policy planning, and tech firms depend on analytics for AI development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Developing predictive analytics and machine learning models
- Creating climate models and risk assessments
- Designing insurance forecasting systems
- Building banking algorithms and fraud detection systems
- Supporting data-driven public policy decisions
Industries Hiring:
- Technology companies (AI, machine learning, software)
- Financial services (banking, insurance, investment)
- Healthcare (hospital systems, research institutions)
- Government (federal, provincial, municipal)
- Retail and e-commerce (forecasting, personalization)
Career Path: Entry-level data analysts can advance to senior data scientist roles, then to lead data scientist, principal data scientist, or chief data officer positions. Many also transition into specialized fields like AI research, quantitative finance, or climate modeling.
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or related field (minimum)
- Master’s or PhD preferred for advanced positions
- Programming skills in Python, R, SQL
- Certifications in machine learning, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
2. Healthcare Managers
Growth Outlook: Second-fastest growing occupation Onward Migration: Very low (minimal outflow across all time periods) Average Salary Range: $70,000 – $140,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Canada’s aging population and chronic disease rates are placing unprecedented pressure on the healthcare system. Healthcare managers coordinate the operations that keep facilities running efficiently while managing worker shortages, expanded patient needs, and modernization initiatives like virtual care and electronic health systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Overseeing hospital, clinic, and long-term care facility operations
- Managing healthcare budgets and resources
- Coordinating staffing and workforce planning
- Implementing quality standards and care delivery strategies
- Leading digital health transformation projects
Industries Hiring:
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Long-term care facilities
- Public health agencies
- Rehabilitation centers
- Community health clinics
- Private healthcare companies
Career Path: Start as a department coordinator or assistant manager, progress to unit manager, then facility manager, regional director, and potentially chief executive officer or vice president of operations.
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or nursing
- Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) or MBA preferred
- Professional certifications (CHE, CHRE)
- Clinical background beneficial but not always required
3. Software Engineers, Programmers and Web Developers
Growth Outlook: Third-fastest growing, driven by AI and digital transformation Onward Migration: High (7% at 5 years, 17-19% at 15 years, 19-21% at 25 years) Average Salary Range: $65,000 – $150,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Canada’s technology sector continues expanding rapidly, powered by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, fintech, remote work tools, robotics, and autonomous systems. Software engineers aren’t just needed at tech companies—banks, hospitals, universities, logistics firms, and government agencies all require developers.
Key Responsibilities:
- Designing and building software applications and systems
- Developing AI and machine learning solutions
- Creating web applications and mobile apps
- Maintaining cloud infrastructure
- Implementing cybersecurity measures
- Testing and debugging code
Industries Hiring:
- Technology companies (software, SaaS, AI)
- Financial services (fintech, digital banking)
- Healthcare (health tech, telemedicine)
- E-commerce and retail
- Government and public sector
- Transportation and logistics
Specializations in High Demand:
- AI/Machine Learning Engineers
- Cloud Architects
- Full-Stack Developers
- Mobile App Developers
- DevOps Engineers
- Cybersecurity Engineers
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or related field
- Coding bootcamp graduates increasingly accepted
- Portfolio of projects often more important than formal education
- Continuous learning essential (new languages, frameworks, tools)
4. Natural Healing Practitioners
Growth Outlook: Strong growth in holistic healthcare sector Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary Range: $45,000 – $90,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Canadians are increasingly adopting holistic approaches to managing stress, chronic pain, mobility issues, and mental health. Natural healing practitioners—including naturopaths, acupuncturists, herbalists, and wellness consultants—are seeing rising demand due to increased interest in preventive care, cultural awareness, integrative medicine, and non-pharmaceutical treatment options.
Key Services:
- Naturopathic medicine and herbal treatments
- Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine
- Homeopathic care
- Wellness consulting and lifestyle coaching
- Nutritional therapy
- Mind-body healing practices
Industries Hiring:
- Wellness centers and holistic health clinics
- Health spas and retreat centers
- Corporate wellness programs
- Fitness organizations
- Tele-wellness services
- Integrative medicine facilities
Education Required:
- Varies by specialty and province
- Naturopathic doctors: 4-year degree from accredited college
- Acupuncturists: Certification programs (2-4 years)
- Provincial licensing requirements vary
- Professional association memberships often required
5. Transportation and Production Logistics Coordinators
Growth Outlook: Robust expansion driven by supply chain transformation Onward Migration: Low Average Salary Range: $50,000 – $85,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Global supply chain disruptions have permanently shifted how companies operate. Canadian businesses now prioritize resilience, regional distribution, inventory forecasting, and real-time visibility. Growth in online shopping, increased manufacturing activity, port expansion, and major infrastructure projects continue pushing demand for logistics professionals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Coordinating transportation and distribution networks
- Managing warehouse operations and inventory
- Overseeing customs compliance and documentation
- Planning production flow and scheduling
- Implementing supply chain technology solutions
- Optimizing delivery routes and carrier relationships
Industries Hiring:
- E-commerce and retail distribution
- Manufacturing and production facilities
- Third-party logistics (3PL) providers
- Port authorities and transportation companies
- Freight forwarding companies
- Government trade and customs agencies
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, or business
- College diploma in supply chain or operations management
- Professional certifications (CCLP, CSCMP, APICS)
- Experience with logistics software (SAP, Oracle, WMS systems)
6. Delivery Service Drivers and Personal Delivery Workers
Growth Outlook: Unprecedented expansion in last-mile delivery Onward Migration: Low Average Salary Range: $35,000 – $65,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Canadians are shopping online more than ever, creating massive demand for parcel delivery, grocery delivery, pharmacy delivery, and same-day courier services. Both urban and rural communities increasingly rely on door-to-door services, with seniors depending on medication delivery and remote workers preferring convenience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Delivering packages, groceries, and meals
- Operating delivery vehicles safely and efficiently
- Managing delivery schedules and routes
- Providing customer service
- Using delivery apps and GPS systems
- Handling package tracking and documentation
Industries Hiring:
- E-commerce platforms (Amazon, Walmart, Canadian Tire)
- Courier services (Canada Post, Purolator, FedEx, UPS)
- Food delivery services (Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes)
- Grocery delivery (Instacart, Voilà)
- Pharmacy delivery services
- Gig economy platforms
Career Path: Start as a delivery driver, advance to route supervisor, operations coordinator, fleet manager, or transition into logistics planning roles.
Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license (appropriate class for vehicle type)
- Clean driving record
- Physical fitness for package handling
- Smartphone and familiarity with delivery apps
- Customer service skills
7. Support Professionals in Personal Services
Growth Outlook: Rapid expansion in lifestyle and wellness services Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary Range: $30,000 – $70,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Consumer interest in lifestyle, wellness, and personal development continues rising. This diverse category includes pet groomers, fitness coaches, wellness assistants, personal stylists, and specialized service providers. Online platforms, subscription services, and specialized communities are enabling rapid growth in personalized services.
Occupations Included:
- Pet groomers and animal care specialists
- Personal fitness trainers
- Wellness and lifestyle coaches
- Beauty and spa technicians
- Personal shoppers and stylists
- Event planning assistants
Industries Hiring:
- Wellness and fitness centers
- Pet grooming and veterinary services
- Beauty salons and spas
- Online service platforms
- Corporate wellness programs
- Private practice and self-employment
Education Required:
- Certification programs specific to specialty (6 months – 2 years)
- Professional licensing where required
- Continuing education for skill updates
- Business skills for self-employment
8. Policy and Program Researchers, Consultants and Officers
Growth Outlook: Strong growth driven by complex policy challenges Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary Range: $55,000 – $105,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Public-sector expansion, population change, and complex national challenges have increased the need for policy researchers and government consultants. These professionals shape housing initiatives, immigration reforms, climate programs, economic development strategies, healthcare modernization, and education funding.
Key Responsibilities:
- Analyzing data and evaluating public programs
- Drafting policy frameworks and recommendations
- Monitoring social and economic trends
- Conducting stakeholder consultations
- Preparing briefing notes and reports
- Evaluating program effectiveness
Industries Hiring:
- Federal government departments
- Provincial and municipal governments
- Think tanks and research institutes
- International organizations
- Non-profit advocacy organizations
- Consulting firms
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, economics, or social sciences
- Master’s degree often preferred (MPP, MPA, MA)
- Research and analytical skills
- Policy writing experience
- Bilingualism (French/English) advantageous
9. Computer and Information Systems Professionals
Growth Outlook: Extremely strong growth driven by cybersecurity needs Onward Migration: High (7% at 5 years, 17-19% at 15 years, 19-21% at 25 years) Average Salary Range: $60,000 – $140,000+
Why It’s Growing:
With cyber threats increasing worldwide, IT professionals who maintain secure digital networks, upgrade cloud systems, prevent cyberattacks, and oversee database security are experiencing some of the strongest long-term growth projections. Every organization needs advanced IT oversight as they integrate automation, remote work platforms, and AI systems.
Key Roles:
- Cybersecurity analysts and architects
- Network administrators and engineers
- Database administrators
- Cloud systems administrators
- IT security managers
- Systems architects
Industries Hiring:
- Financial services (high security requirements)
- Healthcare (patient data protection)
- Government (critical infrastructure)
- Technology companies
- Telecommunications
- All major corporations
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or related field
- Professional certifications highly valued (CISSP, CEH, CCNA, AWS, Azure)
- Security clearance required for government positions
- Continuous training essential
10. Managers in Engineering, Architecture, Science and Information Systems
Growth Outlook: High growth driven by infrastructure and climate projects Onward Migration: Elevated (6-7% at 5 years, 12-15% at 15 years, 15% at 25 years) Average Salary Range: $90,000 – $160,000+
Why It’s Growing:
Large-scale housing development, infrastructure expansion, transit modernization, climate resilience projects, and renewable-energy investments require experienced engineering and architectural managers. These roles coordinate technical teams, oversee complex projects, ensure regulatory compliance, and direct multi-million-dollar developments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leading engineering and technical teams
- Managing project schedules and budgets
- Ensuring regulatory and safety compliance
- Coordinating with stakeholders and clients
- Reviewing technical designs and specifications
- Strategic planning for technical initiatives
Industries Hiring:
- Engineering consulting firms
- Architecture and design firms
- Construction companies
- Utilities and energy companies
- Government infrastructure departments
- Technology companies
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, or related field
- Professional engineering license (P.Eng) or architectural registration
- 5-10+ years of technical experience
- Project management certifications (PMP, PRINCE2)
- Leadership and business skills
Jobs 11-20: Complete Overview
11. Therapy and Assessment Professionals
Onward Migration: 8% at 5 years, 14% at 15 years, 16% at 25 years (highest short-term outflow) Average Salary: $60,000 – $95,000+
Occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech-language pathologists, and audiologists are essential as Canadians face chronic illness, mobility challenges, and developmental needs. Growth driven by aging population and increased children’s therapy needs.
Key Employers: Hospitals, schools, community health clinics, rehabilitation centers, private therapy practices
12. Managers in Financial and Business Services
Onward Migration: Highest overall risk (10% at 5 years, 24% at 15 years, 32% at 25 years) Average Salary: $85,000 – $180,000+
Business services managers oversee portfolios across finance, insurance, banking, consulting, and corporate operations. As regulatory frameworks evolve and companies undergo digital transformation, leadership demand grows significantly.
Key Employers: Banks, insurance companies, investment firms, consulting firms, corporate head offices
13. Human Resources and Business Service Professionals
Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary: $55,000 – $100,000+
HR professionals manage talent shortages, workplace retention, diversity initiatives, labour relations, and remote-work transitions. Immigration growth, hybrid work adoption, and employee engagement needs drive sustained hiring.
Key Employers: All major organizations, HR consulting firms, recruitment agencies, government
14. Dentists, Optometrists and Audiologists
Onward Migration: Very low (4-6% across all time periods – highest retention) Average Salary: $90,000 – $250,000+
Essential healthcare services with strong retention rates. Population aging increases need for specialized clinical services, particularly in rural and northern communities. Preventive care awareness boosts long-term demand.
Key Employers: Private practices, community health centers, hospitals, specialty clinics
15. Technical Therapy and Assessment Professionals
Onward Migration: Low Average Salary: $45,000 – $75,000+
Licensed practical nurses, opticians, therapy assistants, and medical technicians support frontline clinicians. Essential to reducing wait times and supporting rehabilitation across the healthcare system.
Key Employers: Hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers
16. Manufacturing and Processing Engineers
Onward Migration: Elevated (6-7% at 5 years, 12-15% at 15 years, 15% at 25 years) Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000+
Canada’s push toward advanced manufacturing, robotics, electric-vehicle production, aerospace renewal, and green industrial development increases demand. Reshoring of supply chains sustains strong growth through 2035.
Key Employers: Manufacturing facilities, automotive companies, aerospace firms, food processing plants
17. Athletes, Coaches, Referees and Sports Professionals
Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary: $30,000 – $80,000+ (varies widely)
Expanding sports culture and investment in recreational infrastructure drive growth. Youth sports, high-performance athletics, community fitness programs, and rehabilitation services all contribute.
Key Employers: Schools, universities, community centers, professional sports organizations, private gyms
18. Support Occupations in Art, Culture and Recreation
Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary: $35,000 – $70,000+
Digital streaming, content creation, museum programming, cultural festivals, and tourism-linked arts initiatives expand demand. Graphic designers, set decorators, event coordinators, and arts-support professionals benefit.
Key Employers: Media companies, museums, event venues, tourism organizations, digital platforms
19. Museum, Art Gallery and Cultural Heritage Professionals
Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary: $40,000 – $80,000+
Renewed government and private investment in cultural preservation, Indigenous reconciliation programs, and digitization of historical archives drives demand. Digital exhibitions and cultural tourism support expansion.
Key Employers: Museums, art galleries, heritage sites, archives, cultural institutions
20. Technical Computer and Information Systems Specialists
Onward Migration: Moderate Average Salary: $50,000 – $90,000+
System support technicians, computer equipment specialists, and IT operations assistants maintain stable digital environments. Steady growth with high job security across all provinces.
Key Employers: All organizations with IT infrastructure, managed service providers, government
Summary Table: Top 20 Growth Occupations at a Glance
| Rank | Occupation | 5-Year Migration | 15-Year Migration | 25-Year Migration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Data Scientists/Mathematicians/Statisticians | ~7% | ~17-19% | ~19-21% |
| 2 | Healthcare Managers | Very Low | Very Low | Very Low |
| 3 | Software Engineers/Developers | ~7% | ~17-19% | ~19-21% |
| 4 | Natural Healing Practitioners | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| 5 | Logistics Coordinators | Low | Low | Low |
| 6 | Delivery Drivers | Low | Low | Low |
| 7 | Personal Service Professionals | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| 8 | Policy Researchers | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| 9 | IT Systems Professionals | ~7% | ~17-19% | ~19-21% |
| 10 | Engineering/Tech Managers | ~6-7% | ~12-15% | ~15% |
| 11 | Therapy Professionals | 8% | 14% | 16% |
| 12 | Financial/Business Managers | 10% | 24% | 32% |
| 13 | HR Professionals | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| 14 | Dentists/Optometrists | 4-6% | 4-6% | 4-6% |
| 15 | Technical Therapy Support | Low | Low | Low |
| 16 | Manufacturing Engineers | ~6-7% | ~12-15% | ~15% |
| 17 | Sports Professionals | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| 18 | Arts/Culture Support | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| 19 | Museum/Gallery Professionals | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| 20 | Technical IT Specialists | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
Key Trends Shaping Canada’s Future Job Market
1. Healthcare Dominance
Multiple healthcare occupations appear in the top 20, reflecting Canada’s aging population and chronic disease burden. Healthcare managers, therapy professionals, dentists, and technical support roles all show strong growth.
2. Technology Sector Expansion
Tech occupations dominate high-growth projections, but many also show high onward migration rates. Data scientists, software engineers, and IT professionals are in demand but mobile globally.
3. Supply Chain Resilience
Logistics coordinators and delivery drivers reflect permanent shifts in how goods move through the economy, driven by e-commerce growth and supply chain restructuring.
4. Holistic Wellness Growth
Natural healing practitioners and personal service professionals benefit from changing consumer preferences toward preventive care and wellness-focused lifestyles.
5. Infrastructure Investment
Engineering managers and manufacturing engineers will benefit from major infrastructure projects, climate adaptation initiatives, and domestic manufacturing expansion.
6. Digital Government
Policy researchers and public-sector consultants reflect growing complexity in governance, requiring stronger analytical capacity across all government levels.
How to Position Yourself for High-Growth Careers
For Students and Early-Career Professionals
1. Choose Education Strategically Focus on fields with demonstrated long-term growth. STEM education, healthcare programs, and business management offer strong foundations.
2. Develop Digital Literacy Regardless of your field, strong digital skills (data analysis, programming basics, cloud platforms) enhance employability.
3. Gain Practical Experience Co-op programs, internships, and volunteer work provide crucial real-world experience that employers value.
4. Build Transferable Skills Communication, problem-solving, project management, and adaptability are valuable across all high-growth occupations.
5. Consider Dual Credentials Combining technical expertise with business knowledge or adding data analysis skills to healthcare training creates competitive advantages.
For Mid-Career Professionals
1. Upskill Continuously Take courses, earn certifications, and attend workshops to stay current in your field and adjacent areas.
2. Explore Management Tracks Many high-growth occupations are managerial roles. Develop leadership skills and pursue supervisory experience.
3. Network Strategically Join professional associations, attend industry conferences, and build relationships in high-growth sectors.
4. Consider Lateral Moves Transitioning from declining to growing fields often requires strategic lateral moves that leverage transferable skills.
5. Embrace Technology Learn how emerging technologies impact your field and position yourself as someone who bridges traditional expertise with digital innovation.
For Newcomers to Canada
1. Research Credential Recognition Understand how your international qualifications translate to Canadian standards and what additional steps are required.
2. Target High-Growth, Low-Migration Fields Occupations with strong growth and low onward migration (like healthcare managers, dentists, logistics coordinators) offer stable long-term prospects.
3. Improve Language Skills Strong English or French proficiency significantly improves employment outcomes across all occupations.
4. Gain Canadian Experience Accept entry-level positions, volunteer, or pursue internships to build Canadian work experience and professional networks.
5. Explore Provincial Nominee Programs Many provinces offer immigration streams targeting specific high-demand occupations, potentially expediting your permanent residence path.
Regional Variations in Demand
Ontario
Strongest demand for tech professionals (Toronto tech hub), healthcare managers (large urban centers), financial managers (Bay Street), and logistics coordinators (manufacturing belt).
British Columbia
High growth in software engineers (Vancouver tech scene), natural healing practitioners (wellness culture), logistics roles (Pacific gateway), and cultural professionals (film industry).
Alberta
Demand for data scientists (energy sector analytics), engineering managers (infrastructure projects), manufacturing engineers (diversifying economy), and logistics professionals (trade corridors).
Quebec
Need for policy researchers (large public sector), software developers (Montreal AI hub), healthcare managers (aging population), and cultural professionals (vibrant arts scene).
Atlantic Provinces
Growing demand for healthcare managers, therapy professionals, technical support roles, and logistics coordinators as populations age and economies develop.
Prairies (Manitoba/Saskatchewan)
Strong need for agricultural logistics, manufacturing engineers, healthcare professionals, and business managers supporting resource industries.
Immigration Pathways for High-Growth Occupations
Express Entry
Many top-20 occupations qualify for Express Entry through the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class. Tech professionals, healthcare workers, and managers often score high in the Comprehensive Ranking System.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
All provinces offer streams targeting specific occupations. Tech workers, healthcare professionals, and skilled trades are frequently featured in PNP draws.
Category-Based Selection
Express Entry now includes category-based draws for:
- STEM occupations (data scientists, software engineers, IT professionals)
- Healthcare occupations (managers, therapists, technicians)
- French-language proficiency
- Trade occupations
Start-Up Visa
Tech entrepreneurs and software developers can pursue permanent residence through innovative business proposals supported by designated organizations.
Salary Expectations and Career Progression
Entry-Level to Mid-Career Growth
Technology Occupations:
- Entry: $55,000 – $75,000
- Mid-career: $85,000 – $120,000
- Senior: $120,000 – $180,000+
Healthcare Occupations:
- Entry: $50,000 – $70,000
- Mid-career: $70,000 – $100,000
- Senior: $100,000 – $150,000+
Management Occupations:
- Entry: $60,000 – $85,000
- Mid-career: $90,000 – $130,000
- Senior: $130,000 – $200,000+
Skilled Services:
- Entry: $35,000 – $50,000
- Mid-career: $50,000 – $75,000
- Senior: $75,000 – $100,000+
The Challenge of Talent Retention
Several top-growth occupations face significant onward migration challenges:
Highest Outflow:
- Financial and business managers (32% by 25 years)
- Data scientists and tech professionals (19-21% by 25 years)
- Engineering managers (15% by 25 years)
Why Workers Leave:
- Higher salaries in US tech hubs
- More specialized opportunities abroad
- Return to home countries after gaining Canadian experience
- Better career advancement prospects elsewhere
Retention Strategies:
- Competitive compensation packages
- Clear advancement pathways
- Work-life balance and flexibility
- Recognition and professional development
- Community integration support
Conclusion: Positioning for Success in Canada’s Evolving Job Market
The top 20 occupations projected for highest growth through 2035 reflect Canada’s most urgent economic needs: stronger healthcare capacity, resilient supply chains, advanced digital ecosystems, upgraded infrastructure, and modernized government services.
These roles represent where employers will hire aggressively, where graduates will find strongest opportunities, and where immigrants have highest chances of long-term career success. However, many also show high mobility, meaning retention strategies will play a major role in Canada’s economic future.
Key Takeaways:
- Technology and healthcare dominate high-growth projections
- Education and continuous learning are essential for accessing these careers
- Onward migration varies significantly by occupation—choose strategically
- Regional differences matter—demand varies across provinces
- Immigration pathways exist for most high-growth occupations
- Transferable skills enable career transitions into growing fields
Whether you’re starting your career, planning a career change, immigrating to Canada, or advising others, understanding these growth trajectories provides a roadmap for making informed decisions that align with Canada’s economic future.
Start by identifying which high-growth occupations match your skills, interests, and circumstances, then develop a strategic plan for education, skill development, and career positioning that capitalizes on Canada’s most promising employment opportunities through 2035.
