Amid the Pandemic, Some Firms in Canada are On a Hiring Spree

Even though the COVID-19 pandemic is shuttering many workplaces across Canada, some professionals, including software workers, have continued to enjoy high demand for their services.

Tech firms like Slack and Amazon are reportedly looking for software professionals, as they are gearing up to adjust their operational model to the current way of life in the country under lockdown.

As the pandemic spreads, telehealth services providers are also streamlining their operations. Montreal-based telehealth provider Dialogue Technologies is reportedly adding 250 people to its workforce.

In addition to tech professionals, Amazon is planning to hire hundreds of delivery boys in Canada.

Dave Clark, Amazon’s senior VP of Worldwide Operations, wrote in a blogpost that the retailing giant is strengthening its workforce to deliver critical supplies directly to the doorsteps of people.

“Getting a priority item to your doorstep is vital as communities practice social-distancing, particularly for the elderly and others with underlying health issues. We see a significant increase in demand, which means our labor needs are unprecedented for this time of year.”

The retailer prefers those professionals who lost their jobs recently due to the lockdown. “We want those people to know we welcome them on our teams until things return to normal, and their past employer can bring them back,” Clark added.

Across the country, as many as 90 companies are looking to hire, according to a list prepared by HR leaders in the Canadian tech community. Together, they may generate more than 2,000 jobs.

The news comes just days after the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) expressed concern saying that around two million people could lose their jobs in Canada due to the pandemic.