In April, Canada’s job market exhibited a modest uptick with the addition of 90,000 jobs, marking a 0.4% increase from the previous month. However, the unemployment rate remained steady at 6.1%, according to the latest data from Statistics Canada.
The employment rate held constant at 61.4%, maintaining its level following a six-month period of decline. This stability reflects an economy that continues to grapple with fluctuating labor market conditions, yet shows resilience in certain sectors.
Notably, employment among core-aged men (25 to 54 years) rose by 41,000 jobs (0.6%) and among women in the same age group by 27,000 jobs (0.4%). Male youth (ages 15-24) also saw a significant increase, with 39,000 new jobs (2.8%). Conversely, employment for women aged 55 and older decreased by 16,000 jobs (-0.8%).
Part-time employment was the primary driver of the gains, increasing by 50,000 jobs (1.4%). This shift suggests a flexible job market, potentially accommodating changing worker preferences and business needs.
“The increase in part-time work highlights the dynamic nature of Canada’s labor market, where flexibility and adaptability are becoming more pronounced,” noted an analyst from Statistics Canada.
The sectors that experienced the most significant employment growth were professional, scientific and technical services (+26,000; +1.3%), accommodation and food services (+24,000; +2.2%), health care and social assistance (+17,000; +0.6%), and natural resources (+7,700; +2.3%). However, there was a notable decline in utilities, which shed 5,000 jobs (-3.1%).
Regionally, Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and New Brunswick saw notable job additions. Total hours worked across the country increased by 0.8% from the previous month, indicating not only more jobs but also more work being performed, with a year-over-year increase of 1.2%.
In terms of earnings, average hourly wages rose by 4.7% year-over-year, reaching $34.95. This increase follows a 5.1% growth in March, underscoring ongoing wage pressures as employers compete for talent in a tight labor market.
A concerning trend noted in the report was the substantial number of workers (over 28%) required to come into work or connect to a work device on short notice, reflecting the pressures of modern work environments on employees’ work-life balance.
As HR professionals navigate these complex dynamics, understanding the nuances of employment trends and their implications on workforce management and planning will be crucial in fostering both organizational success and employee satisfaction.