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The Montreal job market

The labour market in Montreal
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Updated byCharlotte Hoareauon 21 March 2024

Emploi Québec reports that the Montreal region contributes around 35% to the economic activity of the province. This indicates abundant job opportunities in Quebec. Nevertheless, certain sectors show more promise than others. Read this article for further insights!

Due to its strategic location, positioned facing the United States and the Atlantic Ocean, coupled with Canada's trade agreements, Montreal is increasingly drawing in investors and entrepreneurs each year. The Quebec metropolis now hosts offices of some of today's most influential companies, with new projects being initiated regularly.

While French is the primary language in Montreal, the work culture leans more towards the American style. You can move up very quickly if you're dedicated and open to seizing opportunities. Moreover, don't hesitate to break down doors to succeed and secure a job. In short, with determination and a willingness to exert effort, success in launching your career in Montreal is undoubtedly achievable.

Fast-growing employment sectors in Montreal

Montreal stands as a modern metropolis with a clear focus on the future and ecological transition. In the 2022–2023 Quebec budget, C$1.3 billion was allocated for Quebec's Research and Innovation Strategy (SQRI) and the growth of startups in the Greater Montreal region. Facebook's decision to establish an artificial intelligence research lab in Montreal in 2017 reflects the city's prowess in this cutting-edge sector. The research community in Montreal is highly engaged in these matters, building a robust reputation over the years.

Montreal is experiencing rapid growth in the aerospace sector, as highlighted in a January 2023 article in La Presse. With 36,000 existing jobs in Quebec, this industry is projected to create an additional 34,073 positions over the next decade. Montreal is recognized as the third-largest aerospace hub in North America, hosting major companies like Bell, Bombardier, Helicopter Textron, and Pratt & Whitney.

Moreover, the Quebec metropolis holds the title of the Canadian capital of video game production. According to the Game Industry Career Guide, Greater Montreal ranks as the world's fifth video game hub. Renowned companies such as Ubisoft, Gameloft, Warner Bros, and Eidos have established studios in Montreal. The Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC) reports a total of 291 video game production studios in the province of Quebec.

Montreal shines in various creative sectors such as visual effects, film, fashion, circus arts, engineering, entertainment, and events. The I Choose Montreal website indicates that in the upcoming years, there will be significant recruitment in Montreal's life sciences, health technology, transportation, and financial services sectors. Similar to other regions in Quebec, there is a high demand for healthcare professionals like nurses and orderlies in Montreal.

Jobs that employ the most people in Montreal

Montreal's service sector is highly dynamic, with a diverse range of in-demand occupations listed on the Organismes.org website. This includes roles such as teachers, nurses' aides, social workers, caregivers, chefs, welders, telecom installers and repairers, mechanics, delivery drivers, and material handlers.

Some professions in Quebec don't necessarily demand high levels of education or specialization but are well-appreciated. Take, for example, the role of a waiter in Montreal; despite often having a modest base salary, tips can significantly boost their income, allowing them to make a decent living. In Montreal, not leaving a tip is generally looked down upon for this reason. Similarly, security guards, typically earning around $23 CAD per hour, may receive additional benefits such as travel bonuses, night bonuses, or bonuses for using a personal vehicle.

Tools for exploring job prospects in your field in Montreal

If you're interested in exploring job prospects in your field of work or study in Montreal, be sure to check out the Emploi Quebec website. By searching for your occupation on the Trades and occupations page, you can find details on the estimated hourly wage in Quebec, as well as information about job prospects, the nature of the work, and related duties. Additionally, the Explore an occupation tool on the official Guichet-emplois.ca website is another valuable resource you can consult.

Useful links:

Je choisis Montréal - Job opportunities

Québec.ca - Explore jobs of the future

Montréal International

We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.

About

A journalist turned travel writer, Charlotte has seen almost 30 countries as a digital nomad. She has been settled in Canada for two years (Montréal then Vancouver).

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