As the year comes to a close, healthcare remains the most in-demand sector in Ontario, but the food industry, as well as the crafts and agriculture sectors, are all in high need.

The province of Ontario currently has such a desperate need for skilled employees that its Immigration Minister, Monte McNaughton, has asked Ottawa to quadruple the number of qualified people who may settle in the province.

Based on the requirements of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, below are the Top 5 In-Demand Jobs in Ontario, organized by job title and National Occupational Classification (NOC) code.

1. Nurse Aides, Orderlies And Patient Service Associates (NOC 3413)

There were 126 nursing assistant positions available in Ontario alone in mid-November, with a total of 885 available across the country. In Ontario, these professions make an average annual income of $40,300 based on a 37.5-hour work week, but compensation may be as high as $60,450 depending on experience and area.

These are the individuals who help nurses, hospital personnel, and physicians in providing basic patient care at hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities for the elderly, and other healthcare institutions.

2. Home Support Workers And Related Occupations, Excluding Housekeepers (NOC 4412)

Home support workers are people who offer personal care and companionship for elders, people with disabilities, and convalescent clients. They normally give care at the client’s home and often reside there as well. They can also work for home care and assistance companies or as independent contractors.

Across mid-November, there were 1,093 similar opportunities placed on Job Bank in Canada, with nearly one-third of them, 393, located in Ontario. In Ontario, the employment earns an average annual income of around $35,100, with more experienced individuals earning up to $57,600.

3. Residential And Commercial Installers And Servicers (NOC 7441)

The 71 residential and commercial installers and servicers positions published on Job Bank grossly understate the great need for such employees, many of whom are picked up by contractors before the jobs are even advertised anywhere.

Indeed.ca, for example, listed 327 jobs for siding installers in Ontario alone in mid-November. On the same page, there were another 212 openings for door installers.

These are the people that put things and systems in your home or company. Windows, doors, electrical appliances, water heaters, fences, play structures, and septic and irrigation systems can all be included on residential, commercial, or institutional properties.

The average yearly income for these employees in Ontario is $40,950, although they may be paid up to $73,125 per year for putting in normal work weeks.

4. Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 7511)

In mid-November, Indeed.ca had over 7,500 help needed advertising for drivers in Canada, indicating a severe labour shortage. Job Bank.ca rates the chances of finding work in this occupational area as “excellent,” the best grade.

The typical yearly income for a truck driver in Canada is $42,900 based on 37.5-hour weeks — but many truckers work far longer hours and earn significantly more. In British Columbia, these professionals may make up to $74,200 at the top of the pay scale.

5. Heavy Equipment Operators (Except Crane) (NOC 7521)

Heavy equipment operators are in high demand in the construction and maintenance of highways, bridges, airports, gas and oil pipelines, tunnels, buildings, and other structures, as well as in surface mining and quarrying operations and material handling jobs.

In mid-November, Job Bank had more than 300 such openings. Indeed.ca has over 2,200 listings.

These individuals earn a median annual salary of $54,405 based on a regular work week and are employed by construction businesses, heavy equipment contractors, public works departments, pipeline, logging, cargo-handling, and other industries. They can make up to $75,075 per week for the same 37.5 hours each week.