Are you looking for an exciting and rewarding career in healthcare? Canada’s healthcare industry is booming, and the job opportunities in this sector are growing at an incredible rate. Healthcare jobs are not only personally fulfilling but also offer job security and financial stability. Whether you’re fresh out of college or looking to switch careers, the healthcare field has something for everyone.
Here are the top healthcare jobs that are in high demand in Canada and expected to experience the most significant growth over the next few years. With the aging population, increased demand for healthcare services, and new medical technologies constantly emerging, healthcare careers are a smart choice if you want to future-proof your job.
Top Healthcare Jobs in Canada 2024
The healthcare sector is growing rapidly in Canada. By 2024, over 200,000 new healthcare jobs are expected to be created. Here are some of the top healthcare jobs to consider:
1. Registered Nurses
Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their family members. The job outlook for RNs is fantastic with over 60,000 new RN jobs expected by 2024. The average salary for an RN in Canada is $80,000.
2. Personal Support Workers
Personal Support Workers (PSWs) provide routine personal care and assistance to people who have difficulty doing these tasks themselves due to injury, illness, age or disability. PSWs help with daily activities like bathing, dressing and feeding. Over 50,000 new PSW jobs will be created by 2024. PSWs earn an average salary of $40,000.
3. Pharmacists
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer expertise in the safe use of prescriptions. They also advise patients on general health topics like diet, exercise and managing illnesses. Nearly 10,000 new pharmacist jobs will emerge by 2024. Pharmacists are very well compensated with an average salary of $100,000.
4. Physiotherapists
Physiotherapists assess and treat disorders of the muscles, bones and joints. They help rehabilitate patients back to health and mobility through exercise, massage and the use of equipment. Physiotherapists earn approximately $85,000 and over 8,000 new jobs will be created for physiotherapists in Canada by 2024.
5. Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapists help clients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities regain independence and lead full, productive lives. They help patients relearn skills needed for daily activities and modify environments to meet patients’ needs. Occupational Therapists make $80,000 on average and over 6,000 new jobs will emerge by 2024.
Eligibility Criteria for Healthcare Jobs in Canada
To land one of the top health care jobs in Canada, you’ll need the proper training and credentials. The specific requirements depend on the position, but here are some of the common eligibility criteria:
1. Education
Most health care jobs require at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a field like nursing, medical technology, or health sciences. Some advanced roles may require a master’s degree or PhD. The program you choose should be accredited and approved for practice in your province.
2. Licensing and Certification
Many health care positions require professionals to be licensed, registered or certified by a governing body like the Canadian Nurses Association or the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science. Licensing exams typically involve both a written exam to test your knowledge as well as practical components to assess your skills. Maintaining your license often means completing regular continuing education.
3. Experience
While entry-level roles may accept candidates with little to no experience, most health care jobs prefer applicants with relevant work experience, typically 1-3 years. Some positions may require significantly more experience. Gaining experience through internships, co-op programs, or volunteer work during your studies can help you land your first job after graduating.
4. Additional Requirements
Some health care roles have additional requirements like CPR certification, background checks, or physical ability tests. The specific requirements will depend on the demands and responsibilities of the position.
If you meet all the eligibility criteria for your desired health care job, you’ll be well on your way to an exciting and rewarding career helping others in Canada. Keep your skills and credentials up to date, and the possibilities for career progression will be plentiful.
How to Apply for Healthcare Jobs in Canada 2024
To land one of the top health care jobs in Canada in 2024, start preparing now. The field is competitive, but with the right qualifications and persistence, you can secure a position. Here are the key steps to apply:
1. Gain the Necessary Education and Training
Most health care roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like nursing, public health, or health care administration. Some positions may require additional certifications or work experience. Make sure you understand the requirements for your target job and obtain all necessary degrees, licenses, and certifications.
2. Build Your Experience
While in school, complete internships, work-study programs, or entry-level jobs in health care to start building experience. Volunteer at local hospitals, clinics, or community health organizations. Experience is one of the most significant factors employers consider, so the more you can gain, the better.
3. Create a Compelling Resume
Your resume is your chance to make a great first impression. Focus on relevant coursework, skills, and experience. Emphasize any leadership roles or major accomplishments. Have friends or family review your resume for any errors before sending to employers.
4. Search for Openings and Apply
Check sites like Indeed, Monster and LinkedIn for job openings. When you find positions you’re interested in, carefully review the requirements to make sure you’re a good fit before applying. Follow the application instructions precisely and double check that you’ve included everything requested like a cover letter, resume, references, etc.
5. Prepare for Interviews
If selected for an interview, be ready to provide specific examples of your relevant experience and education. Review common interview questions and practice your answers. Dress professionally, arrive a few minutes early, bring copies of your resume, and send a thank you email within 24 hours.
6. Negotiate Your Offer
Congratulations, if you receive a job offer! Before accepting, determine an appropriate salary range based on your qualifications and research. Discuss the overall compensation package including benefits, paid time off, schedule, opportunities for growth, and any other priorities. Don’t be afraid to negotiate in a polite, reasonable manner.
With the right preparation, you can land an exciting, impactful role in Canada’s health care sector. Stay determined, gain valuable experience, and keep applying—your perfect job is out there waiting!
Conclusion
So there you have it, the top health care jobs that are in demand and poised for growth over the next few years in Canada. The health care sector continues to expand, and with an aging population, the need for skilled health care professionals is greater than ever. If you’re looking for a career that provides job security, competitive pay, and the opportunity to help people, you really can’t go wrong with health care. Whether you want to work directly with patients as a nurse or physiotherapist, or prefer more behind-the-scenes roles like health information manager or diagnostic medical sonographer, there are many options to choose from. The health care field needs people with a variety of skills, talents, and education levels. So take your pick from these fast-growing, in-demand roles and start planning your career in health care.