Most Canadian jobseekers expect higher wages in 2026 but believe they will face a difficult job market, according to a new survey from Express Employment Professionals and Harris Poll.
Close to three-quarters of job seekers (72 per cent) expect it will be difficult to find a job in the next six months, roughly the same as six months ago but up from 62 per cent a year earlier. Half (48 per cent) believe there are fewer job opportunities in their field compared to a year ago.
At the same time, 39 per cent anticipate overall wages will increase in 2026 compared to 2025, up slightly from 37 per cent last year.
What jobseekers want
Finding full-time work remains the primary objective, with 78 per cent willing to accept full-time positions and 38 per cent willing to accept part-time work. Almost one-third (28 per cent) are willing to accept contract or freelance positions, 22 per cent temporary or seasonal positions and 19 per cent entry-level positions.
Sixteen per cent are willing to accept positions below their most recent pay level, up from 11 per cent last year.
Job search intensity drops
Currently, 29 per cent of job seekers report actively looking for a new job, down from 39 per cent last year. The remaining 71 per cent browse but are not fully committed to their job search.
Working hours decline
Nearly half of employed job seekers (47 per cent) have worked more than usual in the past year, down from 58 per cent last year. Fewer say they are working longer hours and more shifts than usual (33 per cent, down from 43 per cent) or working more overtime (24 per cent, down from 31 per cent).
A smaller proportion have taken on another job in addition to their current one (20 per cent, compared to 30 per cent last year).
However, generational differences emerged. Gen Z workers are much more likely than Gen X or boomers to say they have worked longer hours this past year (66 per cent compared to 45 per cent and 27 per cent, respectively) and worked more overtime (39 per cent compared to 17 per cent and 12 per cent, respectively).
Why employed workers are job hunting
Among employed job seekers looking to make a move, 41 per cent cite the need to negotiate better compensation, 38 per cent are seeking better work-life balance and 36 per cent want to keep an eye on the job market.
Top concerns about staying put include worries about not getting the salary increase they deserve (40 per cent), fear of a slowdown in work opportunities (27 per cent) and concerns about losing their job if the economy declines (24 per cent).
Satisfaction gaps persist
While 85 per cent say salary is important, only 56 per cent of employed job seekers say they are satisfied with their current salary. For benefits, 74 per cent say it is important but only 64 per cent are satisfied with their current benefits package. Work-life balance shows a smaller gap, with 79 per cent saying it is important and 74 per cent satisfied with their current situation.
“Job seekers who invest in their skills, remain open to new opportunities and clearly communicate their value will be best positioned to thrive and find the right fit in 2026,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, president and chairman of Express Employment International.
The survey was conducted online within Canada by Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from Nov. 7 to 21, 2025, among 502 adults ages 18 and older.
