Maple News reports that Canada’s job market experienced a noteworthy rebound in February, recouping nearly all the employment losses suffered during the previous two months. Employment rose by 259,000 during the month, a strong recovery following a combined loss of 266,000 jobs in December and January, according to Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey conducted between February 14 and 20.
The national unemployment rate dropped to 8.2%—a significant decrease of 1.2 percentage points from January and the lowest rate observed since the economic shutdown began in March 2020. Despite this progress, employment levels in February still lagged 3.1% behind pre-pandemic figures from February 2020, with 599,000 fewer Canadians working. Additionally, 406,000 more Canadians were working significantly reduced hours, although total hours worked rose by 1.4%, bolstered by gains in wholesale and retail trade.
Sectors that were hardest hit by COVID-19 restrictions showed marked improvements. Employment in retail trade, accommodation, and food services grew as public health measures eased. However, most of the job gains occurred in lower-wage positions, particularly those paying $17.50 per hour or less. The information, culture, and recreation sector remained relatively unchanged after several months of decline.
Not all gains were in lower-wage industries. Professional, scientific, and technical services not only recovered but continued their upward trend. Compared to February 2020, employment in this high-skilled sector rose 5.6%, adding approximately 86,000 jobs. These gains were largely concentrated in Ontario and British Columbia, two provinces with strong digital and consulting sectors that adapted well to remote work environments. As of December, job vacancies in this growing field outpaced the national average.
The broader recovery signals increased stability and resilience within Canada’s job market, especially as vaccination efforts and local reopenings continue. However, analysts note that labor participation and full-time employment remain critical metrics to watch as the economy attempts to return to pre-pandemic levels.
Maple News will continue to monitor how these changes impact immigration policy and employment opportunities for newcomers to Canada, especially in sectors that show long-term growth potential.