Canada’s employment landscape is evolving rapidly, with significant shifts in job demand across various sectors. While some traditional roles are diminishing, others are experiencing unprecedented growth, challenging employers to keep pace. This evolution is driven by a complex mix of technological advancements, economic factors, and demographic changes.
Understanding these trends is crucial for those navigating their careers or assisting others in doing so. This article explores the jobs that are declining in Canada and those that are gaining momentum.
Jobs Facing Decline in Canada
Cashier
Retail payroll employment in Canada saw a significant decrease, with more than 20,000 positions lost year-over-year as of early 2026, according to Statistics Canada. The introduction of self-checkout kiosks in major retail chains like Loblaw, Metro, and Walmart has reduced the need for cashier staff.
Mail Carrier and Postal Worker
Canada Post is undergoing financial difficulties, reporting a record loss of $1.57 billion in 2025. The corporation plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 30,000 positions by 2035 through retirement and voluntary exits.
Print Journalist and Newspaper Reporter
Since 2008, over 450 news outlets have closed in Canada, resulting in a disappearance of a third of journalism jobs. Recent layoffs have seen around 2,000 journalism jobs lost between 2023 and 2024 due to declining print advertising revenue and an incomplete transition to digital formats.
Assembly Line and Factory Worker
The manufacturing sector in Canada lost about 37,000 jobs in 2025, primarily due to U.S. tariffs impacting export-dependent industries. Automation and robotics are further reducing the need for factory workers, with Ontario losing approximately 45,000 positions.
Retail Sales Associate
Retail sales roles are diminishing as automation and online shopping gain traction. The shift towards digital platforms reduces the necessity for in-store employees as more consumers prefer online shopping.
Emerging Job Opportunities in Canada
AI Engineer and Machine Learning Specialist
There is a rapid increase in demand for AI-related positions in Canada. LinkedIn’s 2026 “Jobs on the Rise” report highlights AI engineers, AI consultants, and machine learning researchers as some of the fastest-growing roles.
Registered Nurse and Personal Support Worker
The Canadian healthcare sector is experiencing significant strain, leading to a rising need for nurses and personal support workers. With an aging population, there is an increased demand for medical care and home-based assistance.
Skilled Trades: Electricians, Plumbers, and Welders
Canada faces a shortage of skilled tradespeople, with a growing gap expected in the future. These professionals are less susceptible to AI disruption, according to Statistics Canada’s January 2026 research.
Mental Health Professional and Counselor
There is a steady rise in demand for mental health services in Canada, with a shortage of qualified counselors and therapists. Various sectors, including education and healthcare, are actively recruiting in this field.
Renewable Energy Technician and Commissioning Manager
Canada’s focus on clean energy is creating job opportunities, particularly in roles like commissioning managers, who are essential in testing and validating complex systems. The renewable energy sector, including wind, solar, and energy storage, is expanding, increasing the need for skilled technicians and engineers.
*****
Original Story at www.muslimnetwork.tv