In-Demand Occupations and Jobs in Yukon (2024)

Located in Canada's stunning wilderness, Yukon offers a unique blend of natural beauty and thriving economic prospects. If you're curious about the territory’s job market, check out our guide on the most in-demand occupations in Yukon and explore key sectors of its provincial job market, such as mining, tourism, healthcare, construction, transportation, and government services.

Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking new challenges or a recent graduate eager to kickstart your career, the in-demand occupations in Yukon present many options to suit your work skills and aspirations. Get to know the in-demand occupations in Yukon in 2024, where diverse sectors offer thriving opportunities for immigrant skilled workers looking for rewarding careers.

Why Yukon Needs You

Yukon's economic engine is fueled by resource extraction, but its reach extends far beyond. Yukon's IBIS Worlds Provincial Economic Profile states that tourism flourishes thanks to awe-inspiring landscapes, while government and public services provide stability. New sectors like renewable energy are rising, demanding skilled professionals across various fields.

According to the Yukon Contractors Association, skilled trades are crucial to the province's growing construction industry, whether you're a carpenter building furniture or a mechanic ensuring that they function properly. With ongoing infrastructure development and a focus on sustainable practices, the territory needs the expertise of immigrant skilled trade workers to keep its communities thriving.

The Yukon government is actively embracing technological advancements. According to Yukon's Our Clean Future Initiative, this translates to exciting opportunities for the province's growing energy sector for IT specialists, data analysts, and software developers to be at the forefront of shaping a tech-forward Yukon.

Lastly, Yukon's population is rising from 23,238 in 2003 to 45,597 in 2023, according to the Yukon's Bureau of Statistics report. Yukon welcomes newcomers with open arms, knowing their skills and expertise are essential for the province's continued social and economic growth. Yukon allows newcomers to be part of a dynamic community where their contributions are valued.

The Top Sectors in Yukon

Beneath Yukon's breathtaking scenery lies a dynamic economy pulsating with opportunity. Yukon's vast territory boasts several key sectors driving its economic and labor market growth. Each of Yukon’s sectors looks for skilled immigrant workers to fill in the labor demand of the top sectors in Yukon. Here's a summary breakdown of each top sector in Yukon.

Resource Extraction

Resource extraction has been the cornerstone of Yukon's economy for over a century. Minerals like gold, silver, lead, and zinc continue to be significant contributors, with the potential for further exploration and development of copper, iron, and oil and gas reserves, according to the Yukon government's latest mining report.

This sector demands a diverse workforce. Geologists, engineers, and technicians are crucial for exploration and mine development. Skilled tradespeople like electricians, mechanics, and heavy equipment operators ensure smooth operations. Environmental scientists play a vital role in sustainable resource management, adhering to Yukon's environmental regulations.

Tourism

Yukon's awe-inspiring landscapes – from the majestic Kluane National Park to the thundering waters of Miles Canyon – are a magnet for tourists worldwide. Tourism is the territory's second-largest economic driver, generating revenue and creating jobs across various sub-sectors.

The hospitality industry flourishes with hotels, lodges, and outfitters catering to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Tour guides with expertise in wilderness navigation, wildlife viewing, and cultural history are in high demand. Marketing and social media specialists are also crucial in promoting Yukon as a premier tourist destination.

Government and Public Services

The Yukon government is a significant employer, providing essential public services across the territory. This sector offers a variety of stable careers, often with attractive benefits and pension plans.

Healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, and paramedics are crucial for Yukon's well-being, with a growing demand in rural areas. Teachers, social workers, and law enforcement personnel ensure the smooth functioning of communities. Additionally, the government seeks skilled professionals in administration, finance, and policy development to navigate Yukon's evolving needs.

Construction

Yukon's infrastructure development keeps pace with its economic growth. This translates to a constant demand for skilled tradespeople in the construction industry, including carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and heavy equipment operators. The focus on sustainable practices is creating new opportunities within construction.

Professionals with expertise in energy-efficient building techniques and renewable energy infrastructure are increasingly sought after. Additionally, project managers skilled in coordinating complex construction projects in remote locations are highly valued.

Renewable Energy

Recognizing the importance of sustainability, Yukon is actively transitioning towards renewable energy sources like hydro, solar, and wind power. This shift creates exciting possibilities for engineers, technicians, and researchers specializing in clean energy technologies.

Yujon makes adopting renewable energy solutions easier for businesses and individuals. This fosters a growing demand for specialists in solar panel installation, wind turbine maintenance, and biomass energy production.

Learn more about Yukon's energy sector via Canada's natural resources.

The Top In-demand Jobs in Each Sector in Yukon in 2024

With a thriving economy fueled by resource extraction, tourism, and a commitment to sustainability, Yukon is brimming with opportunity. The tables below outline the top in-demand jobs in each sector in Yukon for 2024, along with their corresponding National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and annual average salaries from Canada's Job Bank:

Resource Extraction

Yukon is one of the most resource regions in Canada, making it a prime destination for resource extraction businesses.

Tourism

With one of the most uniquely beautiful landscapes and indigenous cultures in Canada, Yukon has been experiencing a considerable tourism boom recently, creating many job opportunities within this sector.

Government and Public Services Sector

Yukon, possessing very close-knit remote communities, relies heavily on government services, creating a massive demand for civil servants in the region.

Construction

Yukon is one of Canada’s fastest regions for population growth, creating a vast demand for the construction of public infrastructure and housing and subsequent need for workers in this sector.

Renewable Energy

The renewable energy sector growth in Yukon is driven by its remote and unspoiled wilderness and resources, creating a huge demand for immigrant skilled workers in this sector.

Benefits of Working in Yukon

If you're looking for a career change in a unique environment in Canada, Yukon may be your ideal destination. Below are some benefits you stand to reap when you work here.

Low cost of living

To offset the disadvantages of being located in a remote and largely inaccessible Canada and the high cost of living that comes with it, Yukon offers a higher average monthly net salary than other major cities and towns in Pacific Western Canada, such as Vancouver and Victoria. This is outlined in the table below with figures from Numbeo:

Figures obtained from Canada's Job Bank show that firefighters and police officers in Yukon earn more than their counterparts in other Canadian provinces, excluding the Northwest Territories, which is yet to be organized as a province.

Learn more about the cost of living in Yukon.

Competitive Social Benefits

Working in Yukon can be financially rewarding. Many employers, including the government, offer their employees competitive social benefits packages because of the province's remote location and sparse population. Administered by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) on behalf of the Yukon government, these benefits include health insurance, dental, and pension plans, providing valuable security and peace of mind. Some employers may offer relocation assistance to ease the transition to living in Yukon.

Tax Advantages in Yukon

The Yukon government recognizes the challenges of living in a remote location. To ease the burden, residents can take advantage of tax breaks, which are incentivized benefits in Yukon. Among these benefits in Yukon, The Northern Living Allowance provides a tax credit to offset the higher cost of living. Other prominent Yukon tax breaks, according to the Canada Revenue Service, include the

• Yukon Child Benefit (YCB),
• Yukon First Nations income tax credit,
• Yukon Government carbon price rebate,
• Yukon business investment tax credit, and
• Yukon basic personal amount.

Furthermore, housing expenses can be further deducted, offering significant tax advantages and furthering your hard-earned income.

Outdoor Recreation in Yukon

If you crave an active lifestyle, look no further than Yukon. After work, immerse yourself in recreation in Yukon, a nature playground. Hike through breathtaking trails, cast a line in pristine lakes teeming with fish, or kayak down majestic rivers to make unforgettable recreation in Yukon memories. Winter transforms Yukon into a wonderland for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling enthusiasts.

Learn more about outdoor things to do in Yukon.

FAQs

How Can I Find Out About the Latest Job Openings in Yukon?

You can stay updated on the latest job openings in Yukon by regularly checking online job boards and government employment websites, networking with professionals in your field, attending job fairs, and reaching out to local employers directly.

Is it Difficult to Find a Job in Yukon?

While finding a job in Yukon may present challenges like any other region, the territory's diverse economy and growing industries offer numerous employment opportunities across various sectors. With determination, networking, and relevant skills, many individuals successfully secure a job in Yukon.

If I Need Experience In an In-demand Field in Yukon, Are There Still Opportunities For Me?

Even if you lack experience in an in-demand field in Yukon, you still have opportunities. Consider internships, apprenticeships, volunteering, or entry-level positions to gain valuable experience and make yourself more competitive in the job market. Investing in relevant education and training programs can help you acquire the skills to succeed in your desired field.