Employpment Canada (ESDC) has published a list of occupations projected to face significant shortages through 2033. Based on data from the ESDC’s Economic Policy Directorate
Employpment Canada (ESDC) has published a list of occupations projected to face significant shortages through 2033. Based on data from the ESDC’s Economic Policy Directorate (EPD) and the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), this forecast offers a detailed look at the challenges—and opportunities—that lie ahead for workers, employers, and policymakers.
1. Healthcare: The Beating Heart of Canada’s Labour Crisis
The healthcare sector leads the list with 38 at-risk occupations, a situation largely driven by an aging population and the increasing demand for medical services. Many of these roles already experienced shortages between 2021 and 2023, and the trend continues. In addition, emerging needs emphasize positions such as Nurse Practitioners (NOC 31302) and Medical Sonographers (NOC 32122), spurred by advances in care delivery and diagnostic techniques.
- • Specialists in Clinical Medicine (31100)
- • Specialists in Surgery (31101)
- • General Practitioners (31102)
- • Veterinarians (31103)
- • Dentists (31110)
- • Optometrists (31111)
- • Audiologists (31112)
- • Pharmacists (31120)
- • Dietitians (31121)
- • Psychologists (31200)
- • Chiropractors (31201)
- • Physiotherapists (31202)
- • Occupational Therapists (31203)
- • Other Health Diagnosing Professions (31209)
- • Nursing Coordinators (31300)
- • Registered Nurses (31301)
- • Nurse Practitioners (31302)
- • Physician Assistants (31303)
- • Licensed Practical Nurses (32101)
- • Paramedics (32102)
- • Respiratory Therapists (32103)
- • Animal Health Technologists (32104)
- • Other Therapy Technicians (32109)
- • Dental Hygienists (32111)
- • Medical Lab Technologists (32120)
- • Medical Radiation Technologists (32121)
- • Medical Sonographers (32122)
- • Cardiology Technologists (32123)
- • Pharmacy Technicians (32124)
- • Other Medical Technicians (32129)
- • Massage Therapists (32201)
- • Medical Lab Assistants (33101)
- • Nurse Aides (33102)
- • Pharmacy Assistants (33103)
2. Natural and Applied Sciences: Innovators in Demand
Twelve occupations in this sector highlight Canada’s commitment to innovation in technology, engineering, and sustainability. Many of these roles require advanced degrees, which means that the talent pipeline can become a significant bottleneck.
- • Architecture and Science Managers (20011)
- • Cybersecurity Specialists (21220)
- • Civil Engineers (21300)
- • Mechanical Engineers (21301)
- • Electrical and Electronics Engineers (21310)
- • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers (21321)
- • Geological Engineers (21331)
- • Civil Engineering Technologists (22300)
- • Mechanical Engineering Technologists (22301)
- • Construction Estimators (22303)
- • Electrical Engineering Technologists (22310)
- • Aircraft Mechanics and Inspectors (22313)
3. Trades, Construction, and Transportation: Building Canada’s Future
The construction and trades sector accounts for 25 occupations, driven by rising housing demands and ongoing infrastructure investments. The physical requirements and extended training periods associated with these roles suggest that these shortages might persist over time.
- • Construction Managers (70010)
- • Home Renovation Managers (70011)
- • Machinists (72100)
- • Sheet Metal Workers (72102)
- • Welders (72106)
- • Electricians (72200)
- • Industrial Electricians (72201)
- • Plumbers (72300)
- • Gas Fitters (72302)
- • Carpenters (72310)
- • Cabinetmakers (72311)
- • Bricklayers (72320)
- • Millwrights (72400)
- • Heavy-Duty Mechanics (72401)
- • HVAC Mechanics (72402)
- • Aircraft Mechanics (72404)
- • Automotive Technicians (72410)
- • Electrical Mechanics (72422)
- • Water Well Drillers (72501)
- • Air Pilots (72600)
- • Other Technical Trades (72999)
- • Concrete Finishers (73100)
- • Roofers (73110)
- • Painters (73112)
- • Floor Installers (73113)
- • Transport Truck Drivers (73300)
- • Water Transport Crew (74201)
- • Construction Helpers (75110)
4. Education and Social Services: Shaping Minds and Communities
Eleven occupations in this category underscore the growing need for educators and caregivers. Immigration is expected to play a key role in addressing these gaps, particularly by supplementing the ranks of credentialed professionals.
- • Secondary School Teachers (41220)
- • Elementary Teachers (41221)
- • Social Workers (41300)
- • Therapists in Counselling (41301)
- • Police Officers (42100)
- • Firefighters (42101)
- • Social Service Workers (42201)
- • Early Childhood Educators (42202)
- • Disability Instructors (42203)
- • Teacher Assistants (43100)
- • Home Support Workers (44101)
5. Natural Resources and Agriculture
This sector includes roles that are vital for managing Canada’s natural wealth and agricultural output.
- • Oil and Gas Supervisors (82021)
- • Livestock Workers (84120)
- • Livestock Labourers (85100)
- • Harvesting Labourers (85101)
- • Greenhouse Labourers (85103)
- • Mine Labourers (85110)
6. Sales and Service
Rounding out the list, 10 occupations in the sales and service sector cover areas such as retail, food, and other specialized services.
- • Insurance Agents (63100)
- • Cooks (63200)
- • Butchers (63201)
- • Postal Services Reps (64401)
7. Manufacturing and Utilities
These roles are essential for keeping Canada’s industrial and utility sectors running smoothly.
- • Paper Machine Operators (94122)
- • Industrial Butchers (94141)
- • Fish Plant Workers (94142)
- • Electrical Assemblers (94203)
- • Metal Fabrication Labourers (95101)
- • Wood Processing Labourers (95103)
- • Food Processing Labourers (95106)
- • Fish Processing Labourers (95107)
Surplus Risks: Occupations Facing an Oversupply
In contrast to the shortages outlined above, 17 occupations are projected to face surplus risks. These include:
- • 12113 Statistical officers and related research support occupations
- • 14111 Data entry clerks
- • 22113 Conservation and fishery officers
- • 22213 Land survey technologists and technicians
- • 22214 Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
- • 22222 Information systems testing technicians
- • 50011 Managers – publishing, motion pictures, broadcasting and performing arts
- • 51120 Producers, directors, choreographers and related occupations
- • 52100 Library and public archive technicians
- • 52114 Announcers and other broadcasters
- • 52119 Other technical and coordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts
- • 52120 Graphic designers and illustrators
- • 53100 Registrars, restorers, interpreters and other occupations related to museum and art galleries
- • 53111 Motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and performing arts assistants and operators
- • 53200 Athletes
- • 75100 Longshore workers
- • 84111 Silviculture and forestry workers
What’s Next for Canada?
Canada stands at a crossroads. With critical shortages in healthcare, trades, and natural sciences, employers may need to adopt innovative strategies—such as upskilling programs, competitive wages, and automation—to address these gaps. Immigration will continue to be a crucial part of the solution, even as recent adjustments to targets introduce some uncertainty.
For job seekers, these 100-plus occupations provide a clear roadmap toward secure, future-proof careers. Whether you are a nurse, an engineer, or a tradesperson, the Canadian labour market is calling for your skills now and into 2033.
If you have experience in one of these fields and are considering immigration, our company can assist you in preparing a resume, gathering all necessary documents, and finding a program that suits your needs. Contact our office to schedule a consultation.
