The labour market in Toronto

The labour market in Toronto
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Updated by Charlotte Hoareau on 21 March, 2024

The job market in Toronto is thriving, with consistently low unemployment rates and numerous job openings in various categories. Whether you're seeking permanent full-time, part-time, or work-study positions, there are plenty of opportunities available. Additionally, you can explore contract work, internships, odd jobs, freelance gigs, and training opportunities.

In Toronto, skilled workers typically receive better pay compared to unskilled workers. Some of the highest-paying jobs in Canada include roles such as doctors (earning around CA$212,270), lawyers (CA$120,424), medical assistants (CA$110,871), engineers (approximately CA$100,000), and finance managers (CA$123,534). Keep in mind that these figures represent averages, so it's likely that certain companies offer even higher annual salaries.

Tips for finding a job in Toronto

For expatriates in Toronto, navigating the job search can be a challenging journey. Securing a job in Canada requires having a ready work permit. It's important to update and tailor your CV to align with the Canadian job market either before relocating to Toronto or shortly after your arrival. Boost your self-confidence in preparation for interviews, as in Toronto, you should take pride in your accomplishments. Ensure your LinkedIn and other social networking accounts are up-to-date, highlighting your skills and interests. While landing a job in Toronto is feasible even without extensive experience, having some can still be a significant advantage.

Growth industries in Toronto

Here are just a few of Toronto's most popular industries:

  • Financial services: outside of New York, Toronto's financial sector employs the largest number of people in North America. Most of these jobs are well-paid;
  • Aerospace: The aerospace sector in Ontario plays a crucial role, as it contributes to 75% of Canada's aerospace products exported to 186 countries. This sector comprises over 200 companies, providing direct employment to more than 21,500 individuals and indirectly supporting another 17,200 jobs. As a result, Toronto and its surrounding regions are teeming with job opportunities in this industry;
  • Education: Toronto is home to several universities, as well as a large number of public and private schools. Education is, therefore, a dynamic sector in which you can always hope to find work;
  • Film: The film industry holds significant importance in Toronto. In 2024, a new film studio and media complex, with a budget of $250 million, is set to be constructed. As reported by Radio-Canada, Toronto's film and TV sector is valued at $2.2 billion, providing employment for tens of thousands of individuals each year;
  • Food and beverage: Toronto has one of the largest food and beverage production and processing networks in Canada;
  • Music: Toronto is also a major music metropolis. Many people are employed in music-related companies;
  • Technology: According to Invest Ontario, Toronto is the fastest-growing technology market in North America, ahead of New York, Seattle, and Boston;
  • Tourism: Prior to the health crisis, Toronto welcomed 25 million visitors annually, making the tourism sector a significant source of employment. The reopening of borders to tourists has sparked a resurgence in this industry;
  • Life sciences: research into innovative, technology-driven medicine, longevity, and other complex scientific investigations employ thousands of scientists in Toronto;
  • Fashion: Toronto welcomes globally acclaimed designers, upscale retailers, and a multitude of manufacturers, continually introducing new job opportunities to the market;
  • Design: Job opportunities are cropping up rapidly in the fashion sector, as well as in architecture and graphic design.

In Toronto's dynamic job market, it's crucial to promptly pinpoint the industry and position you want to pursue. Engaging a job search consultant could help in the process of securing the best offers.

Useful links:

Jobs in Toronto

Jobs in Canada

Ontario job market

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