Job prospects Loader-unloader - Material Handling in the Lethbridge–Medicine Hat Region

Over the past few years (2021-2023), there was a labour surplus for Material handlers in the Lethbridge–Medicine Hat Region. There were more workers available than job openings in this occupation.

Source Labour Market Information | Recent Trends Assessment Methodology

The employment outlook will be moderate for Material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region for the 2023-2025 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

• Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
• A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
• There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

E-commerce, or online shopping, has gained a growing percentage of total retail sales across Canada in recent years. In response, retailers have built large fulfillment centres near urban areas to bring down delivery costs and times, leading to a high demand for this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.

Here are some key facts about Material handlers in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region:

• Approximately 1,220 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
• Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
  • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 23%
  • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 21%
  • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 12%
  • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 9%
  • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 8%

Source Labour Market Information | Prospects Methodology