5 Recession-Proof Jobs (That Don’t Require a Degree)

If headlines about the cooling job market are making you nervous, you’re not alone. When the economy takes a downturn, companies are often forced to cut their budgets, resulting in layoffs and hiring freezes. But don’t panic – it’s possible to increase your job security by choosing a recession-proof career. 

Some industries are better than others at withstanding tough market conditions. The good news is, you don’t need a degree to land an in-demand role. In fact, a career-focused diploma will qualify you for many of the best jobs for a recession.

Are We in a Recession? 

Thankfully, we’re not entirely there yet. Experts predict we could be entering a recession in early 2023, which means you still have time to prepare. Our advice: start career planning now to prevent stress and improve your job opportunities. You may end up ahead of the curve!

Consider choosing one of these 5 secure career paths as we head into 2023:

1. Network Systems Administrator 

JOB OVERVIEW

This IT job involves setting up and maintaining computer systems, which can include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. Organizations use computer systems to efficiently share information and keep data secure. Your job as a Network Systems Administrator would be to ensure the system is up-to-date and functional.  

Network Systems Administrators are employed in almost every sector, from tech to government; any workplace can benefit from a computer system. 

WHAT MAKES THIS JOB RECESSION PROOF?

Did you know that the technology sector outperformed most industries during the 2008 financial crisis? It’s clear that, regardless of market conditions, technology is a necessity worth spending on. Organizations rely on secure and effective networks to operate, which means demand for Network Systems Administrators isn’t going away any time soon.  

As a matter of fact, the Canadian government is predicting “higher than average” employment growth for this title over the 2019-2028 period. They expect job creation to result from rapid tech innovation – so there’s lots to look forward to in the future of this role. 

2. Accounting, Tax and Payroll Professional 

JOB OVERVIEW

With this versatile career path, you’ll have a variety of roles to choose from, like bookkeeper, payroll administrator, or tax expert. At a high level, an ATP career involves helping organizations and individuals manage their money. Every company needs a finance team, so you might find yourself working for a large corporation, a family business, or yourself. Common tasks include creating financial reports, making sure employees are paid correctly and on time, and filing income tax returns for clients. 

WHAT MAKES THIS JOB RECESSION PROOF?

Money doesn’t become less important during an economic crisis. Financial stress is likely to increase during a recession, requiring experts to monitor cash flow, streamline payroll, and maximize tax returns. That’s why a job in finance never goes out of style. The roles we’ve listed offer potential for career growth in all market conditions. 

3. Mental Health and Addictions Worker 

JOB OVERVIEW

As a Mental Health and Addictions Worker, you may be responsible for intake procedures, treatment planning, counselling, and crisis intervention. Ultimately, this role is about helping people who struggle with addiction.

There are a variety of job titles that fall under this career umbrella. You might be employed in a mental health center, corrections facility, or shelter.

WHAT MAKES THIS JOB RECESSION PROOF?

Recessions can cause anxiety, job loss, financial hardship, and other circumstances that may impact mental health and lead to substance abuse. Mental Health and Addictions Workers experience heightened demand during times of crisis. Choosing this career path could mean making a life-saving difference in your community.   

The Government of Canada predicts higher than average employment growth for Addictions Workers until 2028.

4. Medical Office Administrator 

JOB OVERVIEW

This career path supports daily operations in a range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, doctor’s offices, dental offices, insurance companies, long-term care facilities and more. Your Medical Office Administrator role will vary depending on the health setting you work in. You could be managing billing, patient records, and intake procedures, along with other important duties. 

WHAT MAKES THIS JOB RECESSION PROOF?

Healthcare is an essential industry. While some types of medical procedures – like cosmetic surgery – could decrease in demand during a recession, people who are sick will always require care and treatment. Therefore, health facilities will always require Medical Office Assistants, Unit Clerks, Medical Schedulers and Billing Clerks.

5. Digital Marketer 

JOB OVERVIEW

This role involves translating a marketing budget into leads – and ultimately sales. Digital Marketers use tools like social media pages, websites, Google Analytics, and SEO to reach their target audience and meet objectives. 

WHAT MAKES THIS JOB RECESSION PROOF?

At first glance, it may not be clear as to why this job is on our list. Is digital marketing really an essential? 

However, a tough sales environment doesn’t mean companies stop marketing altogether. Instead, every marketing dollar becomes more valuable. Marketers with proven results are necessary for success during an economic downturn.

Additionally, marketing professionals have many options for employment. As a Digital Marketer, you could choose to work for a company that’s likely to withstand a recession – like an IT firm or medical supplier. What a world of possibility!

How to Prepare for a Recession 

Update your Resume

Get ahead of a competitive job market with a stellar resume. This is your first introduction to potential employers, so make it count.

Be sure to include all relevant work experience and keep formatting clear and consistent. You should also write a description for each role that explains why you’re the best applicant. Another tip: integrate keywords from the job listing you’re applying to right into your resume.

Build a Professional Network

Networking helps you get your foot in the door of a new workplace or industry. Webinars, job fairs and even LinkedIn are all great places to meet contacts. Even better, practicum placements allow you to build lasting relationships with managers and mentors that could lead to long-term employment.  

Gain Job-Ready Skills With a Career-Focused Diploma

Interested in pursuing one of the recession-proof careers we’ve mentioned? The next step is earning your Diploma at Sundance College. Every program includes a practicum placement, as well as guidance from Career Services on resume-building and interviewing – preparing you to take on any job market.    

Be ready for whatever the economy brings: connect with us here for a free Career Planning session.