Jobseekers in the Capital Region, especially those looking for construction jobs, may see light at the end of the tunnel this fall.
A survey of employers by Manpower Canada found that a “steady hiring climate” will exist in the region for the fourth quarter of the year, with the construction industry the area of largest expected gains.
Survey results showed that 17 per cent of employers plan to hire this fall, while 10 per cent are anticipating cutbacks. With seasonal adjustments, the net employment outlook – essentially the percentage of employers expecting to hire – is 13 per cent, about the same as this time last year, Manpower reported.
Following a strong summer tourist season that saw record levels of traffic coming here on B.C. Ferries and through Victoria International Airport, there seems to be "a really good sense of optimism" in the business community, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce CEO Bruce Carter said.
"Those are all really positive things and we kind of layer that on top of the tech industry, which continues to do really well, and the upcoming shipbuilding contracts." he said.
"In all, things are looking good."
Greater Victoria's unemployment rate is hovering just below six per cent, but before long the Christmas hiring season will be upon us, Carter added. Should the region see a strong holiday season, it could carry retailers through to the spring, when the tourists begin returning.
Carter predicts steady hiring through next year, with a potential for competition for labour within the region.