Best Jobs in Canada for International Students/Working while studying in Canada is one of the major advantages of choosing Canada as your study destination, but there are a few things you should know before you can begin earning. Most international students in Canada can work for up to 20 hours per week, and full-time during scheduled breaks, without a work permit. Working while studying can help you support yourself and meet new people, all while building the con. Moreover, you would be able to identify and add relevant skills and experiences to your CV through relevant internships and part-time opportunities, while studying your MS.
This would also help you by fulfilling the “work experience in Canada” requirement, which is expected by many employers.
Work Permit for International Students
To work in Canada after your graduation, you need to get a work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP).
With PGWPP, you get valuable work experience as well as full-time employment.
In addition, if you are sufficiently skilled and have the requisite work experience, you can also apply to become a naturalized citizen of Canada under the Express Entry scheme.
You would be required to demonstrate your ability to assimilate with Canadian culture and contribute towards its economy.
Typically, the PGWPP work-permit is given for a period equal to the duration of your study program with a cap of three years. Also, the minimum length of your study program should be eight months.
For PGWPP, you need to meet the following requirements
- You must enroll in a full-time program in Canada with the course lasting for a minimum of eight months
- You must be a graduate from: a) a public post-secondary institution, including colleges, trade/technical school, university or CEGEP, b) a private post-graduate educational institution which has rules and regulations similar to a public institute, c) a private secondary or post-secondary institution (in Quebec) which offer programs of 900 hours or longer
- Apply for the work permit within 90 days from the date of receiving a written confirmation from your institute informing you that you meet all the requirements needed to complete your academic degree
- You need to complete and pass the program you are enrolled in and must have received a notification mentioning that you are eligible for a degree, diploma or certificate.
- You must be staying in Canada with a valid study permit while applying for the work permit
11 of the Best Jobs in Canada for International Students
Electronics Engineer
- Median Salary: $87,006
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +16%
- Total Employees: 33,300
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +4.4%
Job Description – Electrical and electronics engineers design, plan, research, evaluate and test electrical and electronic equipment and systems. There are opportunities in both the private and public sector: many professionals find employment with electrical utilities, communications companies, manufacturers, transportation companies and consulting firms.
Aerospace Engineer
- Median Salary: $79,998
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +13%
- Total Employees: 9,200
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): -21%
Job Description – This is a category that’s dominated by big manufacturers (in Canada, especially, there are very few homegrown ones—most are foreign-owned subsidiaries). Given the complex supply chains, there are plenty of smaller companies to work for as well. Alternative fuel sources are a growing area of interest in this field. Specific job titles in this field vary: from aerodynamics engineer to systems engineer, there’s potential to specialize.
Specialized Engineer
- Median Salary: $81,058
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +6%
- Total Employees: 23,000
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +94%
Job Description – Specialized engineers work in, well, more specialized and therefore more obscure fields. Think naval architecture, bio-medicine, physics, and food processing. They develop machinery, systems, and processes.
Petroleum and Chemical Engineer
- Median Salary: $104,998
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +16%
- Total Employees: 10,200
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): -22%
Job Description – The central responsibility of a petroleum engineer is to conduct studies specifically for the exploration, development and extraction of oil and gas deposits. They are employed by energy companies, the government, research institutions and consulting companies. The broader chemical engineering field deals with the biochemical processes that are used to transform any raw material into a product: they could be stationed in the oil sands or they could find work in consumer-facing industries, like food.
Telecommunications Manager
- Median Salary: $84,448
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +14%
- Total Employees: 10,900
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): -3%
Job Description – Telecommunications managers are employed by telecom companies to oversee the development, operation and maintenance of their services. They have titles like telephone company district manager or facilities manager of telecommunications. They must have the technical knowledge and experience in order to assess installations, operation and maintenance services in order to make recommendations for improvement. A university degree in science, electrical engineering, or a related field is required.
Engineering Manager
- Median Salary: $100,006
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +10%
- Total Employees: 24,100
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +17%
Job Description – Engineering Managers are typically hired to oversee the engineering department of a company or an engineering consulting firm. They evaluate the products and operations of an engineering department and set the procedures and standards that engineers must adhere to in their technical work. Engineering managers also deal with the firm’s clients and are expected to explain proposals and present engineering findings.
Financial Manager
- Median Salary: $97,074
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +21%
- Total Employees: 19,900
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +17%
Job Description – This group of managers are employed by insurance companies, real estate firms, stockbrokers and security exchanges. They are responsible for business development and ensuring their team meets the established objectives. You need a university degree in business administration or a finance-related discipline to enter the field. Then, it’s about accumulating experience in the particular industry you’re interested in to be considered for a management role.
Software Engineer
- Median Salary: $88,005
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +17%
- Total Employees: 42,400
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +60%
Job Description – Software engineers have one of the most in-demand skills right now: the ability to code. They spend their days writing snippets of code on their computers to develop applications that millions of people could potentially use. Logically-minded individuals with a love for computers and software would fare well in this field. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering is required.
Construction Manager
- Median Salary: $79,997
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +15%
- Total Employees: 46,400
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +26%
Job Description – Construction managers are employed by construction companies to organize and administer the activities of a construction team. They figure out the budget estimates and establish schedules and milestones to lead a construction project from start to finish. A university degree in civil engineering or a college diploma in construction technology is necessary. You’ll also need to work your way up in the construction industry to enter management level.
Pharmacist
- Median Salary: $99,840
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +9%
- Total Employees: 32,300
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +38%
Job Description – The number of pharmacists grew sharply in recent years as the proportion of seniors in Canada’s population continues to increase. The demand for pharmacists working in hospitals and community pharmacies is high, and will persist over the next few years. A bachelor of science degree in pharmacy and practical training under a working pharmacist are a must to land a job. Additionally, you’ll need a license issued at the provincial level.
Mining & Forestry Manager
- Median Salary: $104,000
- Salary Growth (2009–2015): +19%
- Total Employees: 11,700
- Change in Employees (2009–2015): +44%
Job Description – This group of managers work in Canada’s natural resources sector, overseeing the operations of facilities like mines, lumber mills and fisheries. Some of their days are spent outdoors, inspecting ground operations. Their main goal is to make sure production quotas are met and the site is adequately staffed and equipped. They are also responsible for hiring and training new personnel and reporting progress to senior management.
Hiring Outlook for Canada
Network security and big data initiatives are driving demand for IT professionals within Canadian businesses. Healthcare, finance, high-tech and software organizations are among the top industries seeking skilled technology talent for their teams.
Canadian employers are taking a strategic approach to full-time and contract hiring while still moving quickly to avoid losing out on top talent. The most prized candidates not only have specialized technical skills, but also possess business acumen and strong soft skills. Developers, as well as network security and database professionals, are in especially high demand.
- Here is a list the top Canadian cities with the best average salaries for the same job profiles:
- Vancouver, British Columbia
- Toronto, Ontario
- Montreal, Quebec
- Calgary, Alberta
- Edmonton, Alberta
- Ottawa, Ontario
- Fraser Valley, British Columbia
- Victoria, British Columbia
- Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario
- Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
- Regina, Saskatchewan
- Winnipeg, Manitoba
How to Crack Top Jobs in Canada?
You may have an advantage in the current IT and Tech hiring environment, but you still need to show discerning employers how you can create value for the organization.
When applying and interviewing for technology roles, you should:
- Be prepared to discuss technical skills in-depth
- Provide relevant work samples and explain your contribution in developing each project and its outcome
- Present a work history that shows measurable career progression
- Exhibit a proven track record of delivering results to previous employers — for example, completing projects before deadlines or reducing costs
- Demonstrate strong communication skills
As an international student, you should focus on developing your communication skills, including written, interpersonal and face-to-face communication.
How to get jobs in Canada for international students
In Canada, a large number of job opportunities are never advertised in newspapers or on the Internet. So, how can one search for a rewarding job being an international student?
- Company’s websites: Apart from writing your CV, cover letter and preparing for the interviews, check out the websites for career opportunities.
- Referral: Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) survey regarding recruitments indicates that 76% of employers rely on employee referrals as a recruitment strategy.
- Social platforms: LinkedIn is a fast-growing social media tool. Employers and recruiters are using this tool everyday to source employees. You can set up your resume online and network there.
Probability of getting a job in Canada for an international student
The number of international students in Canada is increasing at all levels of education. It is very important for foreign students to know about the potential opportunities there. To get experience in Canada, gaining experience of at least a year will be helpful to get integrated into the Canadian job market. Looking for Admissions here? or need Help?Register Now
‘My dream is to be a network administrator; I am still searching for that’. Navpreet Singh is an international student alumnus of the University of Windsor. Even after three years of graduating, he was facing challenges finding the job he wants.
It is important for international students to understand that Universities cannot promise them jobs. They need to work hard in the right direction to find a suitable one for themselves.
Jobs for international students in Canada after secondary school
There may be chances that you may not find a job in your field of study, but may benefit from a well-paid opportunity in Canada. Some of the most promising jobs in Canada for international students are given below:
- Bookkeeper: 25 CAD/hour
- Educational interpreter: 13 CAD/hour
- Customer service assistant: 11 CAD/hour
- Aquarium interpreter: 13 CAD/hour
- Sales assistant: 12 CAD/hour
- Cook: 13 CAD/hour
- Office assistant: 13 – 15 CAD/hour
- Human resources assistant: 13 CAD/hour
- Lifeguard: 12 CAD/hour
Summer jobs for students in Canada
- Painter: 13 CAD/hour
- Festival coordinator: 10 CAD/hour
- Camp counsellor: 12 CAD/hour
- Programme facilitator: 13 CAD/hour
- Recreation facilitator: 15 CAD/hour
- Reading program leader: 14 CAD/hour
- Entertainment activities coordinator: 15 CAD/hour
- Baker: 11 – 22 CAD/month
Jobs in Canada for international graduates
A lot of international students are likely to stay after graduation as permanent residents. Also, many international students studying in the US also now look up to working in Canada as a good option. To work in Canada, an international student must have a job offer from a Canadian company. For this, it is important for an international to first identify which industries want them. Given below are some job news in Canada for international graduates:
- Canada’s federal government will allow an additional 500 immigrants to settle in Atlantic Canada through a pilot program. The program allows employers to fill labor needs in the public administration industry by offering jobs to newcomers or recently graduated international students.
- An Irving Shipbuilding program to train Indigenous students as metal fabricators are expected to soon result in the hiring of 12 graduates at the Halifax Shipyard. Irving is currently running similar programs for women and African Nova Scotians in Manufacturing industry.
Given below are top industries to work in Canada. International students consider these as high paying jobs after graduation:
- Architecture and Engineering
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Information Technology
- Marketing
Off campus jobs in Canada for international students
Apart from these, as an international graduate, you may also work off-campus. You can work up to 20 hours per week if the work is during regular school sessions.
To work off campus, international students are required to have either a valid work permit, or all of the things given below:
- a valid study permit
- must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI) who is enrolled in a
- post-secondary academic, vocational or professional training program. or
- secondary-level vocational training program (offered in Quebec only)
- must have started studying
- a study permit with a condition printed on it that permits working on or off campus.
- you are in a program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate and that is at least 6 months long
If you are no longer a full-time student, you can still work off campus if you meet both of these requirements:
- you have been a full-time student since you started your program in Canada
- you are now studying part time only because this is your last semester, and you do not need a full course load to complete your program
Jobs in Canada for international students after post-graduation
Canada is fast emerging as an upcoming destination for many Indian students. Counselors and universities have witnessed an increase in the number of international students in Canada over the years. This is because a post-graduate degree/diploma from a Canadian Institute is globally recognized. Some of the jobs in demand in Canada for international postgraduates with median salaries are:
- Product Development Research Scientist-$70.28-$78.08 an hour
- Senior Manager, Analytics and Reporting-$130,000-$190,000 per annum
- Junior Staff Scientist-$53,353-$64,553 per annum
- University Lecturer-$80,000-$110,000 per annum
- Research Data Centre Analyst-$81,858-$94,219 per annum
- Policy Analyst-$57,426-$65,838 per annum
Challenges faced by international students in Canada while searching for a job
Understanding the marketplace
Students should understand the marketplace in order to know where to find the jobs suitable for them. They should then learn to market themselves for the employers. The students are also able to excel at the workplace if they have good knowledge about the market they are catering to.
Prepare to succeed
Planning helps new immigrants to find the best employment in their industry. If it is taking you long to find a suitable job in Canada, then you are less likely to work in your profession. You must plan your career in such a way that after completing studies, you have a lot of things sorted out when it comes to work front.
How to overcome these challenges?
Carefully plan your Resume
Even after having experience and education to excel, the students might not be able to present themselves fit for the job that is credible by the employer. Students should know how their resumes should look like in order to preset themselves better. They must know what defines good interview behavior and what language they should use to describe themselves. Planning resumes will help you to create an impact.
Be selective
Applying for jobs anywhere and everywhere would not land you to your dream job. Applying to 30 companies with the same resume and cover letter is a bad idea. Cold calling, networking and informational interviews are more effective ways to distributing your resume.
Be enthusiastic
Never miss to follow up with the companies you have applied to. ‘Thank you’ e-mail after the interview sets you apart from other candidates applying for jobs in Canada. this helps in showing the recruiters your interest in getting hired.
The number of foreign students in Canada has been increasing at all levels. The international students should know that there are potential opportunities which may lead to quality employment and PR status after graduation or post-graduation. Choosing the program wisely will be the first step towards getting their dream job. Therefore, plan sincerely about which study program is suitable for you, your career goal, and what skill you develop. Then analyze the market value of that course and if there are enough jobs awaiting in the desired industry for you or not.
