Updated December 2023
If you’re interested in working in business, you’re definitely not alone. Business-related programs are consistently among the most popular choices for students.
Much of the appeal stems from the wide variety of fast-growing, in-demand jobs—even for those just starting out.
Weighing your options for business careers? Wondering which entry-level roles are in high demand across Canada?
We’ve got you covered. In this post, we’re focusing on five entry-level business jobs that are trending up right now across the country.
Keep reading for details on what each role involves and what it takes to get started.
BUSINESS CAREER #1: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Administrative assistants carry out a wide range of tasks that keep an office running smoothly.
These multitasking pros do everything from greeting clients, answering inquiries, and booking appointments to processing mail, organizing files, and preparing reports.
Demand
Many companies have a greater need for organizational support as they try to coordinate remote workers and teams. The Government of Canada Job Bank forecasts steady demand for administrative assistants across most of the country, with particularly strong demand in Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Quebec, and the Yukon.
Training Requirements
Quality administrative assistant training covers the software, communication, bookkeeping, and information management skills you need to thrive in this role.
And most programs are less than a year long. For instance, Herzing's administrative assistant program runs for just seven months.
BUSINESS CAREER #2: HEALTH AND SAFETY OFFICER
Health and safety officers strive to prevent injuries and illnesses in the workplace. They conduct inspections, enforce regulations, deliver safety training, and follow up on complaints and claims.
Ultimately, their role is to identify and manage the risks people face while doing their jobs.
Demand
The pandemic really drove up the need for health and safety officers across the country.
Ontario alone expects to have as many as 2,000 openings for occupational health and safety (OHS) professionals between 2023 and 2027. And the Job Bank projects strong demand for this occupation in Ontario, Quebec, and the Yukon.
Training Requirements
You can get started in this business career with a college diploma in occupational health and safety.
Herzing’s OHS program is fully approved by the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals (BCRSP). That means our grads qualify to become Canadian Registered Safety Technicians (CRSTs) immediately upon graduation, which can boost your employment prospects.
BUSINESS CAREER #3: ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/RECEIVABLE CLERK
Accounts payable and receivable clerks manage both incoming and outgoing payments for a business.
They verify purchases and expenses, process invoices from vendors, and make payments as required. They also receive payments from customers, prepare bank deposits, and follow up with clients about monies owed.
Demand
Accounting technicians made Randstad’s list of the fastest-growing jobs in Canada in 2023.
Looking ahead, the Job Bank says these clerks should see steady demand in virtually every area of Canada.
Training Requirements
Completing accounting and payroll administration training at the college level will prepare you for this entry-level role.
Herzing's accounting and payroll program teaches you about accounting principles and practices and gives you hands-on practice with industry software like QuickBooks and Sage.
BUSINESS CAREER #4: PROCUREMENT OFFICER
Procurement officers are supply chain specialists. They’re in charge of getting the things companies must have to operate. They figure out what’s needed and how it can be obtained in a timely and cost-effective manner.
That involves evaluating suppliers, negotiating prices, tracking shipments, and following up on late or missing orders.
Demand
The Job Bank estimates that procurement officers will enjoy steady-to-strong demand in most areas of the country.
Training Requirements
A supply chain management diploma is excellent preparation for this business career.
In the supply chain management program from Herzing College, you can expect to learn about contract law, transportation logistics, effective negotiations, and more.
BUSINESS CAREER #5: PAYROLL CLERK
Payroll clerks are responsible for making sure everyone in the company gets paid in full and on time.
They track hours worked, calculate earnings and deductions, process direct deposits, and issue cheques. They also prepare tax slips and answer questions from employees.
Demand
The Job Bank predicts steady-to-strong demand for this occupation in every province of Canada.
Training Requirements
College-level training in accounting and payroll administration will qualify you to become a payroll clerk. Herzing’s program covers essential topics like deductions, benefits, payroll processing methods, and government remittances.
GET practical TRAINING FOR BUSINESS CAREERS
Quality training can help you develop the business skills employers want most.
At Herzing College, we offer a variety of business diplomas designed to get you job-ready fast. You can complete your training in two years or even less. Plus, all of our business programs are taught by expert instructors and include an internship for real-world experience.
Need more info? An admissions advisor can provide details on each program and help you determine which one is right for you.
Click below to explore Herzing’s business programs and chat live with an advisor. We’re here to help!
