Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean

The employment outlook will be Limited for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

• Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
• Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
• There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Employment in this occupation depends on trends influencing the food service sector, in particular fast food, where most jobs in this occupational group are located. This industry is characterized by a competitive business environment and low profit margins, resulting in high turnover. However, some positions are found in more stable environments, such as cafeterias in hospitals, schools or corporate institutions.

The recent population growth, driven by immigration, and an improved tourism outlook are contributing to expanding the food services clientele. However, in the context of the rising cost of living and economic uncertainty, consumers tend to reduce non-essential spending and favour more affordable options, such as take-out meals or limited-service counters. This development could foster employment in fast-food restaurants, at the expense of full-service restaurants and drinking places, which would be favourable to this occupation.

On the contrary, increased use of kiosks and mobile applications could reduce demand for counter services.

Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region:

• Approximately 2,150 people work in this occupation.
• Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
  • Accommodation and food services (NAICS 72): 59%
  • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 11%
  • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 10%
  • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 8%