Researching the labour market can act as a valuable tool to help you to make an informed decision on which region to settle based on your job prospects. Labour Market Information can assist you in making an educated decision, but it is important to consider your personal preferences, requirements and your expectations. It is also important to research the cost of living when choosing a region.
The Canadian construction industry and skilled trade companies are always on the lookout for workers. With many vacancies for construction jobs in Canada, combined with a shortage of skilled trades workers, Canada is looking to newcomers to help fill this void. Currently, newcomers make up approximately 19% of the construction workforce in Canada (
Building Excellence, 2024).
Construction job requirements will vary based on the intended profession. For example, some trades and construction jobs in Canada are regulated in specific provinces while others are not. Currently, there are over 400 skilled trades in Canada and about 20% of jobs are regulated. Jobs that are regulated require a
license or certificate of qualification to practice to ensure the well-being and security of the public.
A pie chart with 3 separate sections, each section has an associated color represented on the pie chart, no percentages are shown. Total certification demand for all industries is blue and taking up majority of the pie chart; Total certification demand - construction is red taking up the least amount of room; and new apprentices required - construction which is green taking up the second most amount of room on the chart. Information in pie chart was taken from
BuildForce.
According to the
Job Bank (Construction Ontario 2022-2024) report There were 534,000 people employed in the Ontario construction industry, comprising 7.2% of Ontario's total workforce in 2021. Employment in the construction industry is expected to grow significantly over the 2020-2029 forecast period, supported by residential and non-residential building construction across Canada (
BuildForce Canada, 2020).
Investments in infrastructure and population growth will be key drivers of the construction industry, therefore there is an overall need to recruit construction workers to meet industry demands. Large infrastructure investments coupled with major commercial and industrial construction projects will drive growth in Ontario's non-residential construction.
Before you arrive to Canada, it is crucial to be aware of the job requirements, ensuring a strategic advantage in securing employment aligned with your skills, expertise and experience. Moreover, understanding the distribution of job opportunities in different cities is vital, as labor market conditions may fluctuate throughout the country. Many employers accept applications from experienced tradespeople from around the world, but the outlook for construction jobs varies depending on the province or territory, and the trades or professions that are in demand.