Kootenay Employment Services (KES) says U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canadian imports could hurt the local job market.
KES employer liaison Anita Kollar says the shaky international relationship is causing uncertainty for businesses.
“Some employers mentioned concerns around pricing and their contracts,” said Kollar.
“It’s been documented that businesses are looking over their contracts, so now is the time to double-check what is being put into those documents.”
Kollar says the tariffs could also lead to shipments taking longer for businesses.
“They are concerned about material delays, and we’re expecting small businesses to be affected the most, unfortunately,” said Kollar.
“There are also specific trades that are affected, like the forestry and the lumber industry and construction-related trades. They have been slow to pick up their pace compared to previous years at this time of the year.”
Current employment statistics show a relatively stable job market, and Kollar says it is being reflected in the business outlook.
“What we’re hearing is that businesses are not overly concerned about how their staffing will get affected by all of this,” said Kollar.
However, Kollar says the impacts on businesses could lead to dwindling employment opportunities.
“We’re expecting lay-offs to start happening because of the tariff implications,” said Kollar.
“WorkBC is prepared to support employers and employees when that process comes around. We recommend folks to reach out.”
Several sectors in the Kootenays are continually employing workers and continues to grow.
“We’re seeing a steady increase in hiring for child care support – specifically early childhood educators. There are lots of new facilities opening, but they don’t have the staffing, so this sector is in high demand,” said Kollar.
“We see social services that are always looking for care aides and support workers. For the general public, administrative and reception roles, and retail positions are always hiring.”
Kollar notes that seasonal employment opportunities are also opening up in hospitality, tourism, landscaping, farming and other outdoor jobs.
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