Maple News reports that while the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many sectors of the economy in British Columbia, it also reshaped the job market in surprising ways. Industries such as tourism and hospitality faced significant challenges, but demand surged in others as businesses adapted to new ways of operating. According to federal labour market research, several occupations saw increased demand during this period — a trend expected to continue in the post-pandemic recovery.
Here are 10 jobs in B.C. that experienced a notable rise in demand due to the pandemic, listed by their National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes:
1. Payroll Administrators (NOC 1432): These professionals manage employee compensation and benefits, ensuring accurate payroll records. While this role saw a brief employment dip in early 2020, businesses facing uncertain revenue streams now rely on payroll administrators to optimize staffing costs and maintain regulatory compliance.
2. Information Systems Analysts and Consultants (NOC 2171): With remote work becoming a norm, companies quickly turned to IT experts to design secure systems, evaluate software needs, and implement effective data access solutions. This field is projected to remain strong as digital infrastructure becomes central to business continuity.
3. Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers (NOC 2174): This tech-savvy group saw a jump in demand as businesses required custom software solutions, mobile apps, and digital communication tools. From working on enterprise tools to designing interactive media like training simulations and games, these professionals kept the digital world running.
While the original list includes more occupations positively impacted by the pandemic, these highlighted roles underscore a broader shift toward digital transformation, financial oversight, and adaptability in business operations. Healthcare professionals, e-commerce logistics workers, and customer service reps were also part of this evolving demand pool.
Maple News highlights that these labour market trends not only reveal the impacts of the pandemic but also offer insights for jobseekers and new immigrants planning a future in B.C.’s workforce. Those with digital, financial, or administrative expertise may find new opportunities emerging in the province’s rapidly changing employment landscape.
For newcomers or residents looking to align their skills with market demand, understanding these occupational shifts can be vital for career planning and immigration strategy, especially under work-based and Provincial Nominee Programs.