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Administrative assistance jobs are a popular choice among newcomers to Canada. Most companies have administrative assistants to help run the business. Since administrative assistant careers can take many paths, it’s a great opportunity for immigrants with a variety of skill sets. Plus, administrative assistant salaries can increase to higher levels once you gain experience.
The job requirements for administrative assistants usually require completion of secondary school and a one- or two-year college program. In addition to completing a program for administrative assistants (or another related program) previous clerical experience is also helpful. This role is a non-regulated profession in Canada, so you do not need a license. Learn about job requirements, job search strategies, interview techniques, and more!
Preparing before you move to Canada, can speed up your job search. These are some steps you can take before you move to Canada to help you work in an administrative assistant career and even find a job faster when you arrive.
To help you prepare for your job search, it’s helpful to understand the nature of the job and the specific skills that Canadian employers seek. This will involve some basic research. Administrative assistant careers are unique because jobs are diverse. Your role will be shaped by the industry and company. Some positions may be more advanced than others even though they share the same job title. This will also be reflected in the administrative assistant salary for the job.
Job prospects for administrative assistants vary across Canada. So it’s best to explore provincial job prospects to assess where there the outlook is good.
The labour market conditions over the next 10 years are expected to be balanced for administrative assistant careers. There are expected to be 68, 200 job openings from 2022-2031, many of which will be filled by newcomers, according to the Government of Canada.
You can even explore future job prospects in local regions when you click on the provincial job prospects links.
This detailed information is provided by the Government of Canada Job Bank site and it is a great location to research job prospects, wages, skill requirements, and even search for administrative assistant jobs.
As part of your research, you can view the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code. The NOC provides a standard definition of jobs in Canada. This five-digit code is used by various groups, including job seekers such as you.
The NOC for administrative assistants is NOC 13110. You can use this information to learn about the nature of the job duties and get job titles and employment requirements. While the job title for NOC 13110 is Administrative Assistant, when searching for jobs in Canada, you will find other titles for the same role. You can use these other titles when you search for jobs in Canada and expand your search efforts.
If you have specialized experience, you may also want to refer to these NOCs:
Administrative assistant careers are non-regulated in Canada which means you do not need a license to work in this field. But, most jobs will require you to have certain credentials and education to qualify for the positions. Requirements will vary based on the employer and the job title. Below are steps to take to work as an administrative assistant in Canada:
Credential recognition is a process to verify and assess your skills, competencies, and credentials in a fair and consistent manner. While administrative assistants belong to a non-regulated profession in Canada, some employers may ask for an educational assessment. Mostly though, employers will assess your skills, knowledge, and experience and contact your professional references. So, before you spend money to get your credentials evaluated, find out if the company that you are applying to requires an assessment.
Administrative assistants can become a member of the Association of Administrative Professionals. The association helps its members with skill development and growth to enhance job opportunities and contributions to both the workplace and the community.
Related Post: How Do Education Evaluation and Credential Recognition Differ? (Infographic)
You may also require an educational assessment if you plan to enroll in a college or university program to upgrade your skills or continue your education in Canada. However, before you pay for an assessment, contact the school that you plan to attend to find out what they require and the credential assessment service that you should use. Some schools may have a preferred service provider.
When you get an educational assessment be sure to highlight your international education and skills. You may be able to receive advanced standing, transfer some of your credits, and benefit from prior learning assessment options. If you can gain credit or course exemptions, you can avoid repeating the education you already have, or you may shorten the amount of time required to complete courses. It’s important to build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore your options carefully before you decide that you need to return to school.
Several agencies assess international education credentials to help newcomers to Canada access the education and employment they need including:
To find more credential evaluation, assessment and qualification recognition services click here.
Canadian employers place a high value on soft skills, such as personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and career prospects. Unlike your hard skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly.
Soft skills, such as communication, coordination, and sociability, are even more important for administrative assistants. That’s why identifying areas in your soft skills that need improvement is crucial. If your hard skills will get you an interview, most probably it is your soft skills that will get you the job and enable you to succeed.
Though not a must, upgrading your education and skills through a bridging program or other courses and workshops may be an important part of your journey to becoming a successful administrative assistant in Canada.
Administrative assistants require strong communication skills, document management, note-taking, presentation, proofreading, report compilation and writing, organizational ability, time management, and software expertise. Having strong communication skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages, English or French, is also important for your career success.
Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find other free or affordable English as a Second Language or French as Second Language classes through local school boards or settlement agencies.
There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT) in Ontario. If you are in Toronto, the Toronto District Board of School offers a fourteen-week Enhanced Language Training program focusing on Customer Service & Administration for immigrant women.
And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you better job opportunities.
More than 60 schools offer administration courses and programs in Canada. There are several education streams you can choose from:
Courses are offered by most community colleges. Some programs are available online. Some schools to consider are:
Read more about the benefits of higher education for newcomers.
The main administrative assistant association in Canada is the Association of Administrative Professionals. This association has branches in Ontario, Alberta, and Atlantic Canada.
Professional Immigrant Networks (PINS) are organized associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
PINS can provide networking events, mentoring, information sessions, professional development, and connections to job opportunities.
isans: Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia: helps newcomer professionals with their full economic and social integration in the province of Nova Scotia.
Professional Immigrant Networks (TRIEC)
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, administrative assistant salaries can range from $14.50 to $43 per hour depending on where you live in Canada. Some of the common factors affecting administrative assistant salaries include your job title, industry, experience, education, and location. The median hourly administrative assistant salary is $24.
Here are the most recent administrative assistant salary numbers in Canada:
| Province | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | 18.27 | 26.10 | 34.64 |
| British Columbia | 17.00 | 24.85 | 36.00 |
| Manitoba | 14.63 | 22.12 | 30.84 |
| New Brunswick | 15.00 | 22.00 | 29.76 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 16.48 | 24.04 | 30.00 |
| Northwest Territories | 20.00 | 26.00 | 35.12 |
| Nova Scotia | 14.50 | 22.00 | 29.55 |
| Nunavut | 27.00 | 30.00 | 43.00 |
| Ontario | 17.00 | 24.54 | 35.90 |
| Prince Edward Island | 16.00 | 24.00 | 29.40 |
| Quebec | 16.67 | 23.00 | 31.79 |
| Saskatchewan | 16.35 | 23.32 | 32.00 |
| Yukon | 19.00 | 28.80 | 34.03 |
Most provinces and Canadian cities offer employment opportunities in the administrative sector. However, when looking for jobs, broaden your geographic area to include smaller cities and towns close to the city where you plan to live. For example, you may want to consider cities that are within close proximity to larger cities. For example, the city of Hamilton is less than a one-hour drive to Toronto and can offer a more affordable cost of living.
Research cities in Canada and determine where there is a demand for your profession and where you would like to settle.
Pursuing an administrative assistant career begins with education, and experience, and then selecting a province to work in. Once you decide where to live, you’ll want to identify the best employers in the area. Below is valuable information to help you pursue an administrative assistant career in Canada:
Administrative assistants can work in any province and for a variety of organizations. It’s common to find jobs in government, the private sector, small businesses, and industries such as health care, education, and many others.
You can visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website to check for immigrant-friendly corporations and organizations that you might be interested in. This special designation recognizes Canada’s best employers for their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The Canadian job market can be competitive, so you need to prepare and understand the job search process. You must look for jobs in the region where you will settle. Therefore, take your time to research job requirements in that region and develop a plan to find a job. There are many ways that you can search for jobs. These helpful tips are important actions that you can take to propel your job search:
Finding administrative assistant jobs in Canada may be different than in your home country and you may need help to find jobs, update your resume, write a cover letter, and prepare for interviews.
Most settlement agencies offer free job search services before and after you arrive in Canada.
Click the link to find immigrant services in your area.
Networking is an essential relationship-building activity that can help you discover job leads, gain information about a company or industry, and meet others who can help you to expand your network. As many job vacancies are not advertised, you must make connections with others in your field. The “hidden job market” accounts for roughly 70- 80% of available jobs in Canada. Tapping into the “hidden job market” through networking can greatly help your job search efforts.
Good places to network are industry conferences and functions where people meet, build relationships and share information.
LinkedIn is another helpful networking tool that’s great for connecting with former colleagues and employers, searching for jobs, and getting introductions and recommendations. You can also join some related professional groups.
An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of career information. The purpose of this brief 20 – 30-minute meeting is to speak with someone who currently works in the position or industry that you would like to learn more about.
An informational interview can help you to gather valuable and professional insights. And, you gain benefits by speaking with someone who can share their thoughts and first-hand experience. You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather research and learn more about a position, company, or industry.
When you write your resume it’s important to tailor it for the specific job that you are applying for. When you can show how your skills and experience match the job requirements, it will be much easier for employers and human resource recruiters to discover your resume. Here are some essential tips to write a winning administrative assistance resume:
Using a generic resume for all administrative jobs is not effective. It’s more effective to carefully review the job description and emphasize how your skills match the job requirements. Use bullet points to describe your related responsibilities and successful outcomes.
Employers want to know immediately which technical skills you possess. To do this, you can include a line that says, “Experienced with” and then list all applicable software programs and skills that you possess.
It’s important to showcase the skills that employers are searching for. One way to do that is to review administrative assistant job postings. Identify the skills that employers value and require.
You can use your network to find the names of current administrative assistants. You may want to view their LinkedIn profile or other presence they may have on professional websites to learn about their skills and previous experience. This way you can compare your skills with those of current employees.
As a newcomer, you bring your international experience to the table. This is especially valuable when you apply to companies that have global operations. So be sure to highlight your international experience.
When interviewing for an administrative assistant job in Canada, be sure to ask specifically what the job entails. Admin jobs range from answering phones, scheduling appointments, and setting up virtual meeting rooms to charting budgets, purchasing merchandise, and troubleshooting software problems. Your pay as an administrative assistant can vary depending on your role and duties, the industry, and even the city where you are employed.
Communication is your primary role as an administrative assistant. Be it on the phone, in person, or through e-mail, you must be well-mannered and articulate. Be sure to present yourself professionally before, during, and after the interview.
While some companies have receptionists, others rely on administrative assistants to answer phones and greet clients. Because the company’s administrative assistant may be the first point of contact, it’s crucial to dress professionally to show respect to the company and its clients.
Talk about your spreadsheet, data management, and electronic filing system expertise. Or, if you are interviewing with an advertising company, talk about how your social media skills can help with the company’s online presence. If you are interviewing for a school administrative job, discuss the role of email communication with parents, posting online grades and notices, and electronic bill payment.
Here are some sample questions that a human resources manager or hiring manager may ask you during an interview:
Remember that a job interview is a two-way street. Research the company before the interview and prepare questions. You can ask your questions at the end of the interview.
With a positive outlook for administrative assistant jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options.
Thousands of people work in human resources jobs in Canada. It’s a popular career choice that can lead you down many paths. All types of businesses need human resource (HR) professionals to assist with operations. With HR job prospects looking good over the next few years, it’s a great career option for newcomers to Canada. Plus, human resource salaries can offer a good quality of life in Canada.
Many human resources jobs require a university degree or college diploma in human resources management or a related field (i.e., business administration, industrial relations, commerce, or psychology). Also, some employers may require you to hold a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. Prepare to continue your human resources career in Canada by reading this helpful overview.
There are several ways to pursue a human resources career in Canada. Obtaining the CPHR designation can give you an advantage over other job candidates. Established in 1994, CPHR is the national voice of HR associations from across the country. However, since human resources is not a regulated profession in Canada, you may be able to find an HR position when you arrive. The average human resource salary is attractive for many internationally experienced professionals looking to continue their careers.
The more research you do before you arrive, the better your chances of finding a job in Canada. There are steps that you can take before you move to Canada to make it easier and faster to secure an HR job in Canada:
Job prospects vary in Canada for human resources professionals, so it’s important to research the national, provincial, and local job markets. Your research will allow you to match your skills and experience with labour market needs and continue your career in Canada.
The outlook for human resources jobs is balanced. There is about an equal number of openings as people seeking jobs. Companies are always looking for HR managers, specialists, and generalists. According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, HR job prospects are good in most provinces. There are expected to be 48,600 new openings between 2022-2031 and slightly fewer professionals to fill these jobs. This is a good opportunity for newcomers and internationally trained HR professionals.
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for Human Resources Professionals is NOC 11200. This NOC provides a standard definition of HR jobs in Canada and is used by various groups, including job seekers. Before searching for an HR job, it’s helpful to read the NOC description to ensure that you perform similar job duties in your home country. You can also find example job titles that HR professionals use in Canada. This will be helpful when you begin your human resources career search.
Other Human Resources job titles include:
The requirements for human resources jobs can vary by company. HR is a non-regulated profession in Canada. However, some employers do ask for your credentials to be evaluated. Mostly though, they will give you a project to test you and consider your professional references.
Some companies may request an education evaluation to assess your academic background. However, before you spend money, it’s best to find out if the company you are applying to requires it.
The same rule applies if you plan to attend a college or university program to upgrade your skills. Contact the school you want to attend first to find out if you need an education evaluation and ask if they have a preferred provider.
Make sure to showcase your international education and skills. Try to build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore your options before you decide if you need further education.
For example, your international credentials and experience may allow you to get advanced standing, transfer some of your credits or benefit from prior learning assessment options. This way you may be able to complete your program faster and without spending more money or repeating the education you already have.
Credential recognition is a process to verify and assess a person’s skills, competencies, and credentials in a fair and consistent manner. Several agencies assess international education credentials to help newcomers to Canada access the education and employment they need.
World Education Services (WES) – Ontario
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta
The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia
To find more organizations and agencies providing credential evaluation, assessment and qualification recognition services click here.
There are various ways you can upgrade your skills to meet job requirements in Canada. Canadian employers put a high emphasis on soft skills. These are best described as attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and career prospects. Unlike your hard skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly.
Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and collaboration are important for HR professionals. Identifying the soft skills that you may need to improve is crucial. If your hard skills get you an interview, most likely it’s your soft skills that will get you the job and allow you to succeed.
You may be able to take courses through professional associations and post-secondary institutions. You can also take advantage of bridging programs or other courses and workshops to open up HR job opportunities.
You may have strong HR skills, but you may need more training or skills upgrading to achieve success in the workplace. This is especially relevant to your language skills.
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages, English or French, is important to succeed in Canada. Whether you learn or improve English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through local school boards or settlement agencies.
There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT) in Ontario. And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you better job opportunities.
Bridging programs are a helpful way to transition your international experience and training to the Canadian workplace. In addition to the colleges, universities, and immigrant-serving agencies that offer Human Resources bridging programs, many also offer HR programs and continuing education courses that you can enroll in to advance your career.
York University – Toronto
Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals
This program assists internationally educated human resource professionals (IEHRPs) to gain employment at a level that matches their skills and experience and in roles appropriate to their career path. The program includes comprehensive skills and experience assessment, access to a specialized curriculum, mentorship, internship, and career coaching opportunities. It also helps IEHRPs earn their CHRP designation.
Accessible Community Counseling and Employment Services (ACCES) – Toronto and Brampton
This seven-week program helps internationally trained HR professionals find employment commensurate with their experience and education. Participants will have access to human resources professional networks, mentoring, guest speakers, as well as post-hire services to support workplace activities.
Bredin Centre for Learning
Centre for Skilled and Internationally Trained Professionals
A no-cost program that helps internationally trained professionals understand and successfully move through the licensure and credential process in Canada. Those who are not part of a regulated profession can get up-to-date information about their profession.
Many immigrants take further education after coming to Canada. Some even want to change careers or enhance their careers with a Ph.D. or MBA. There are over 80 colleges and universities that offer human resources degree and diploma programs.
Some of the top schools to study human resources include:
Click here for links to Canadian Universities and Colleges.
The associations listed below provide additional information about the CPHR designation, professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR) Canada
British Columbia
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources British Columbia and Yukon
Alberta
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Alberta
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Association of Human Resource Professionals (SAHRP)
Manitoba
Chartered Professionals in Human Resource Management Manitoba (CPHR Manitoba)
Ontario
Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA)
New Brunswick
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Nova Scotia
Newfoundland and Labrador
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Newfoundland & Labrador
Quebec
Ordre des CRHA et CRIA du Québec (ORHRI)
The following HR sector councils are partner organizations comprised of business, labour, and educational stakeholders. They operate at arm’s length from the Government of Canada and are a platform for stakeholders to share ideas, concerns, and perspectives about HR skills and issues. Working collaboratively, they find HR solutions for their specific sector.
HR sector councils enable human resource development by industry.
Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council
Child Care Human Resources Sector Council (CCHRSC)
Cultural Human Resources Council
Food Processing Skills Canada (FPSC)
Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR)Petroleum Labour Market Information (PetroLMI).
The Canadian job market is competitive and sometimes the job search can be difficult. But there are many ways that you can search for jobs in HR:
Most settlement agencies and other immigrant-serving organizations offer help to find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for interviews. Click the link to find immigrant services in your area.
Professional immigrant networks are associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
Activities that they offer include networking events, mentoring, information sessions, professional development, speaker events and training and connections to job opportunities.
The following professional immigrant networks mentioned do not exclusively serve the HR profession, but many HR professionals are members.
There is one main resource to consult: Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (isans)
Chinese Professionals Association of Canada
Javeriana University Professional Alumni Association in Canada
An informational interview is a brief (20 – 30 minute) meeting you schedule with someone currently working in HR. The purpose of the interview is to gather information and learn more about the profession in Canada.
Your goal should not be to get an HR job during an informational interview. Also, don’t bait and switch, by asking for an information interview and then requesting your contact to circulate your résumé to hiring managers. Also, be sure to ask meaningful questions. Avoid asking questions where you could easily find answers through a basic internet search (the annual sales of a publicly-held company, for example).
An information interview is also beneficial to get a professional’s first-hand HR experiences and impressions. The information interview typically should last no more than 30 minutes, so plan your time accordingly.
Good places to network include conferences, association luncheons, and chamber mixers for their convenience in meeting people, building relationships, and sharing information.
Effective networking can help you discover job leads, gather information about a company or the HR profession in Canada, and meet other HR professionals.
LinkedIn is a helpful online tool for networking. It is a great resource to connect with former colleagues and employers, search for jobs, and broaden your network. You can also connect with people who work in HR and join related groups and forums.
Ideally, your resume should reflect you as an HR professional with experience in several key areas. It should reflect your role as responsible for hiring good people, acting as a coach, and providing direction to employees, imparting training, creating policies, dealing with employee relations, resolving disputes, etc.
What works best in HR is a functional resume, that clearly shows the years of HR experience and responsibilities. Consider these tips when writing your resume:
Examples:
Include power verbs like advocated, addressed, demonstrated, hired, assigned, interacted, interfaced, litigated, terminated, recruited, screened, guided, scheduled, etc. These portray your active involvement while describing your job functions.
List your titles like HR Assistant, HR Specialist, HR Manager, etc. to show career progression and list any designations.
Your resume must reflect your understanding of how HR policies impact the company’s overall business mission and goals. To make it stand out, go beyond job functions and state how your services made a difference to the organization. Also mention numbers: hires done, training taken, level of people trained, timelines in closing a hire, etc. Clearly identify how your achievements align with the human resources job description and requirements.
Highlight any awards you may have won. It may feel awkward to show them off if this is not common in your home country. However, in Canada, you need to speak about your awards and achievements.
Once you have been invited for an interview, you will need to prepare for the interview. Conduct thorough research on the employer and think about why you are a perfect fit for the job. You need to be confident and calm in the interview, so practicing your answers is very important!
Within the HR sector, behavioural-based interviews are common and are geared to assess skills such as:
For senior HR positions, questions can deal with your:
The following are sample questions that you may be asked during job interviews:
Your specific HR certifications, experience, skills, and education all factor into your human resources salary in Canada. However, the median wage for an HR generalist in Canada is $36.22/hour. Annual salaries can go above $100,000 especially if you work for a large company. Hourly human resources salaries can start at as low as $16.70 in Newfoundland and they can reach as high as $68.27 per hour in Alberta.
Human resources salaries can vary based on where you live. Here are the most recent human resources salary numbers in Canada:
| Province | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | 26.92 | 39.82 | 68.27 |
| British Columbia | 25.00 | 38.00 | 57.95 |
| Manitoba | 21.63 | 34.62 | 55.13 |
| New Brunswick | 27.48 | 33.68 | 49.45 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 16.70 | 35.85 | 60.28 |
| Northwest Territories | 30.05 | 47.81 | 66.93 |
| Nova Scotia | 18.03 | 32.97 | 49.45 |
| Nunavut | 30.55 | 48.19 | 63.26 |
| Ontario | 23.08 | 36.06 | 55.94 |
| Prince Edward Island | 20.00 | 32.00 | 56.41 |
| Quebec | 23.00 | 35.53 | 54.95 |
| Saskatchewan | 23.00 | 41.80 | 57.69 |
| Yukon | 29.67 | 44.00 | 51.79 |
There are opportunities to work in human resources across Canada. Generally, mid-sized and large companies have HR departments. So HR opportunities may be greater in cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, and Calgary where many large companies are located. These cities also tend to have a higher average human resources salary.
HR jobs are found in large corporations, government agencies, educational institutions, agencies, and businesses of all sizes. Some of the top human resources employers in Canada include:
When looking for HR jobs in Canada, it’s helpful to know the titles that employers use. Some HR jobs may be described differently in Canada.
Here are some of the most common HR titles:
To learn about companies that hire recent immigrants, visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website. These employers have received this designation because of their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in workplace programs.
With a positive outlook for human resources jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options.
The business casual dress code is a recent concept. Not so long ago, it used to be true that everyone who went for a job interview in Canada had to wear their best suit. Then once they started their new job in Canada, they would have to maintain that professional look every day. This type of dress code is known as business formal. In the past, many companies required their employees to adopt business formal attire in the office environment. Business formal still has a place in the modern workplace, and you will still be required to wear it for an interview because first impressions count!
Recently, however, companies have adopted a more lenient dress code called business casual. The business casual dress code gives employees more freedom with their attire in the workplace while still maintaining a professional look. Be that as it may, there is one problem with the term business casual; it is too vague. So, it can be confusing and leave you wondering what is acceptable and what’s not acceptable. Get helpful guidelines to navigate the business casual dress code in Canada.
For newcomers, understanding the Canadian workplace can help you to succeed. And, understanding the dress code is an important part of understanding the workplace.
There is no one accepted definition for the term business casual. What might be considered business casual in one workplace might be completely unacceptable in another. Different companies define business casual differently. It can vary depending on the company’s culture, goals, and public image. However, the overall goal of business casual attire is to allow employees to be comfortable while still looking professional. Essentially, the business casual dress code combines traditional business wear with less formal clothing. The resulting style is still suitable for the work environment while also being more comfortable for employees.
However, the business casual dress code has yet to make its way into every Canadian workplace. So, take responsibility to learn what is suitable office attire. It is always best to dress a little smarter than you have to in the first few days until you have figured out what people wear day to day. You can always drop the tie or unbutton the top button to make an outfit more relaxed if you need to.
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If you are not sure what is required from you when it comes to your attire, you can always give HR a visit. The Human Resources department will be able to guide you regarding the dress code. The company may even have a formal policy that specifically addresses the dress code. Another suggestion is to observe how formal or casual your coworkers are dressing and find a good balance for your attire.
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Business casual is a great option for businesses that have no real reason to maintain a formal dress code. Allowing employees to dress more casually can contribute to higher morale, productivity, and creativity. It may also boost employee morale. Business casual attire allows employees to personalize their clothing and stay more comfortable in the workplace. Since professional wardrobes can get quite expensive, business casual also helps employees save money.
While a business casual dress code can be confusing, here are some helpful tips to consider.
After you have an idea of what business casual wear is suitable for the office, it’s time to go shopping. The salespeople, especially at stores that sell business attire, are well-informed and will be able to guide you. Recently, many businesses have adopted dress codes that are quite lenient and encourage business casual. All you have to do is mention the office dress code and the sales associate can show you a wide array of clothing styles. You may be pleasantly surprised by how many options work with both your personality and the office environment.
Yes, that might sound a little cheesy, but it is true. No matter what clothes you are wearing, having a smile on your face can go pretty far. Smiling radiates confidence and makes you a more likable person from the first impression. As you start your new career in Canada, just being happy will help you start it on the right note.
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
Canada is a great country to look for biotechnology jobs. Why? Canada is a world leader in biotechnology (bio-economy) with a large network of research hospitals, universities, laboratories, and companies. BioTalent Canada is the national sector council for the biotechnology industry. If you are a newcomer or plan to move to Canada and have experience in this industry, you will have opportunities. Biotechnology careers in Canada for technologists and technicians are available in both laboratory and field settings. Biotechnology salaries offer a good living. Learn more about biotechnology job requirements in Canada with this helpful overview.
Taking steps to prepare yourself before you move can give you a head start on your biotechnology career when you arrive in Canada. To improve your chances of successfully finding a biotechnology job, here are some steps you can take before you move:
To work in biotechnology jobs in Canada, there are certain requirements you will need to meet that include:
For more advanced biotechnology jobs, you may require a university degree or master’s degree. Certification with provincial associations is voluntary.
According to a national study, Close-up on the bio-economy, the demand for talent in all sectors of Canada’s bio-economy will exceed supply by 2024. And the study predicts that by 2029, 65,000 additional employees will be needed. Given the skills shortage, internationally educated professionals will be an invaluable source of talent. This could be a great opportunity for future and recent immigrants to Canada with the right skills and background.
The bio-economy workforce in Canada covers many occupations, and research and development account for nearly half of all jobs. While Canada expects to see labour shortages for all bio-economy jobs, three areas will experience severe shortages until 2029:
However, you must research the national, regional, and local biotechnology job markets before you move to Canada. Make sure that you understand the job requirements and licensing requirements. You may need a certification before you can work in Canada if your job title belongs to a regulated occupation.
You can find out if your biotechnology job is regulated, and the name of the professional certification and licensing body here.
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for biological technologists and technicians is NOC 22110. Check out the NOC description for an overview of the role in Canada. It’s also helpful to know the various titles that biotechnologists use in Canada. This is helpful information to know when you begin your job search.
Biotechnology career requirements can vary based on your career goals. You may need to go through credential recognition, skills upgrading, or complete a bridging program. Below are steps you will need to take to work in the biotechnology field in Canada.
It’s vital to research, develop a plan to find work and understand the specific skill requirements for your occupation. BioTalent Canada’s website is a smart starting point.
The BioSkills Recognition Program helps internationally trained professionals bridge any gaps and meet Canadian standards. The program will recognize your competencies and connect you with employers within the sector.
You can participate in this program if you can legally work in Canada and know English fluently. While still in your home country, you can start the process by listing a summary of your competencies, credentials, and skills, and once you arrive in Canada, you may be asked to do a practical test observation.
Once your skills are recognized, you will be informed that you are BioReadyTM: that means you have demonstrated the required skills for a specific job function and have the competencies to work in the Canadian biotech industry. If for some reason, your skills are not recognized, you will be informed on how to upgrade your skills and join the program afterward.
You can also take an online BioSynergy Program that helps you integrate into the workplace. The program includes modules on effective communication, building interpersonal relationships, lifelong learning, and leadership skills. If you want a mentor, you can access a coaching module.
If you plan to enroll in a college or university program to upgrade your skills, contact the school that you plan to attend. The school can guide you through the application process and identify the credential assessment agency you should use.
Make sure you highlight your international education and skills. Try to build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore university and college options thoroughly before you decide to continue your education. You might be able to get advanced standing, transfer some of your credits and benefit from prior learning assessment options.
Your international credentials and experience may allow you to gain credit or course exemptions. This way you will complete your program more quickly, without spending more money or repeating the education you already have.
Here are some credentials assessment services that you can consider:
World Education Services (WES)
Comparative Education Service: University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
International Qualifications Assessment Service – Alberta (IQAS)
The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)
To find more organizations that provide credential evaluation, assessment and qualification recognition services click here.
Upgrading your education and skills through a bridging program or other courses and workshops may be an important part of your journey to get into the bio-economy sector in Canada.
Canadian employers put a high emphasis on soft skills, which are personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and biotechnology career prospects. Unlike your hard skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly.
Soft skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and communication are important for biotech professionals. As an individual working in biotechnology, you are expected to work well with others in a team, have strong verbal and written skills, and collaborate with others from many different groups.
In addition to your technical knowledge, you’ll be judged on your listening, writing, and basic communication skills. If your hard skills will get you an interview, most probably it is your soft skills that will get you the job and help you to succeed in the job.
You may have strong technical skills, but often that is not enough to get a job or maintain it afterward. You may need more training or skills upgrading, especially with regard to your communication skills and team dynamics.
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English, which is the working language in the sector, or French, which is the country’s other official language, will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through school boards or settlement agencies.
There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT). And, if you already speak English at a high level, learning French is a good option, as it may offer you better opportunities.
These programs can help you to “bridge” your international experience and training to Canadian workplaces. Many colleges, universities, and immigrant-serving agencies offer bridging programs. You may be eligible for one. Do some research to find a program that’s suitable for you.
University of Toronto (Mississauga)
Certificate in Life Science Enterprise Management
This program offers an intensive certificate in Canadian Biotechnology Enterprise. Courses include Canadian biotechnology and bio-policy, occupation-specific language training, and workplace culture and communications training. The program also offers employment services, mentoring, and personal coaching.
As a world leader in biotechnology, Canada has some of the top schools in the world. Many immigrants take further education after coming to Canada. Some even want to change careers or enhance their biotechnology careers with a Ph.D. or MBA.
There are over 30 schools that offer biotechnology courses and programs in Canada. Many of these schools offer multiple biotechnology programs and areas of specialization. You can enroll in programs and courses at the diploma, degree, master’s, and Ph.D. level.
Here are some of the top universities to consider:
Here are some colleges to consider:
Click here for a list of Canadian Universities and Colleges.
BioTalent Canada is a national sector council that provides information about licensing and certification. It also offers professional development, education, networking opportunities, and resources.
You’ll find resources related to understanding the Canadian workplace, occupation-specific language skills, understanding of document use, and critical thinking skills. The website also includes labour market studies and news to help you understand the industry in Canada, opportunities, and challenges.
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
These associations offer networking events, mentoring, information sessions, professional development opportunities, and connections to jobs. Here are some you can use:
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (isans)
Professional Immigrant Networks (Toronto)
Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC)
The national biotechnology salary per hour ranges from a low of $17.28 to a high of $37.95/hour (based on 2022 figures) according to the Government of Canada Job Bank. Based on a 40-hour workweek, this means that a yearly salary could range from $35,942 – $78,936/year.
Biotechnology salaries are affected by many factors such as your job title, credentials, education, experience, and where you live. The lowest median biotechnology salary is in British Columbia. The highest is found in Yukon and Saskatchewan.
Here are the most recent Biotechnology salary numbers in Canada. Biotechnology salary information is not available for all provinces:
| Province | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | 17.28 | 25.12 | 37.95 |
| Alberta | 22.00 | 23.00 | 42.31 |
| British Columbia | 17.00 | 19.23 | 40.66 |
| Manitoba | 15.38 | 21.58 | 32.69 |
| New Brunswick | 20.00 | 25.64 | 37.66 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Northwest Territories | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Nova Scotia | 17.36 | 27.00 | 39.61 |
| Nunavut | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ontario | 17.28 | 23.48 | 43.62 |
| Prince Edward Island | 15.84 | 27.00 | 34.36 |
| Quebec | 18.00 | 26.83 | 37.00 |
| Saskatchewan | 23.30 | 29.64 | 36.54 |
| Yukon | 21.99 | 31.17 | 40.37 |
Biotechnology is an exciting growing field combining biology with technology and engineering. Canada’s bio-economy is likely to require 65,000 additional workers by 2029. Its applications in medicine, agriculture, and other fields put biotechnologists in high demand. Before deciding where you want to settle in Canada, research and find out where there is a higher demand for your specific biotech expertise.
While jobs may be available across Canada, you may find specific regions or cities where the demand is greater. Typically, there will be more job opportunities in larger cities. Vancouver is a top option because it has over 70 local biotech companies. Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa are also good options.
You can find biotechnology labour market information on Bio-talent Canada’s website. It will help you target your job search by identifying the best locations for biotechnology jobs and where you can offer your skills.
In Canada, most biotechnology companies are small or medium-sized businesses. They are cross-sectoral and may be involved in various stages of product development, like research, clinical and regulatory trials, production, and marketing.
With a skills shortage in Canada, you can find biotechnology career opportunities in agriculture, biosciences, environment, health, industrial applications, natural resources, nanotechnology, and genomics.
Some of the top biotechnology employers in Canada include:
Visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers to look for employers hiring in your field. This special designation recognizes Canada’s best employers for their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
The outlook for biotechnology jobs in Canada is positive, with more than a third of companies currently experiencing a labour shortage. However, the Canadian job market is competitive, so you need to prepare for your job search. As well, finding biotechnology jobs in Canada may be different than in your home country. The following tips can help prepare you for a successful job search:
It’s best to search for jobs in the province and city when you plan to settle. And it’s important to carefully research biotechnology job prospects in the region and develop a plan to find work. When searching for biotechnology jobs, consider these tips:
Most settlement agencies offer free help to find job openings, update your resume, write a Canadian-style resume, and prepare for interviews. Learn more about Services in Canada to Help Newcomers Settle.
To find immigrant services in your area, click here.
There are different ways to write a resume for the biotech sector. However, most professionals working in the industry will agree on a few guidelines to write the ideal resume. This can affect your career opportunities, how many interview calls you receive, and even your biotechnology salary.
Like most scientists, you may be very modest and not see your accomplishments as highly as the rest of the world. When you write your resume, list your most relevant accomplishments and strengths related to biotech.
Make sure to list your accomplishments early on in your resume: the top-tier school, or your education; any articles you may have published in any top-tier biotechnology journals; your patented work and awards received.
Biotech industry resumes are ordered chronologically, with your most recent experience first. Mention your job experience, including your internships, consulting jobs, and volunteer work.
Generally, with science industry jobs, hiring managers look for people who have achieved unique things. Therefore, it is important for you to list not only things you’ve done but also things you have achieved.
When meeting biotechnology career counsellors, or people who work at a biotech company, ask them for their best advice regarding resume requirements for the industry.
While job prospects look positive for biotechnologists, landing that next opportunity, especially for newcomers, may require extra effort and outreach. One way to do this is by requesting an “informational interview.” This is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a person who is currently working in the biotechnology industry to learn more about the field in Canada.
Informational interviewing can be a great way to put your communication, research, and interpersonal skills into practice for your job search.
You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather find out whether a particular position or employer might be a good fit for you. An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of career information. In addition to basic information about a particular type of industry (such as you might find on a company website), it also offers you the benefit of a professional’s first-hand experiences and impressions.
Make a list of the biotechnology companies that operate in your area. Then, use professional organizations, LinkedIn, and other networking resource tools to identify people that you can connect with to request an informational interview.
Networking is a vital activity that can help you discover job leads, gain industry insights, and meet others in your field in Canada. And because many job vacancies are not advertised, people in your network can help you discover jobs in this “hidden job market.” This also applies to biotechnology careers.
You’ll benefit by meeting other professionals, building relationships, and sharing information, you might even hear about job opportunities you wouldn’t have found online. It could even lead to a higher biotechnology salary.
Good places to network include conferences, professional associations, and online spaces such as LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a great site to reconnect with former colleagues and employers, search for companies and jobs that you have an interest in and make connections with others in your field. You can also join related professional groups. But remember, you must allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking.
The outlook for the biotech industry looks good and whether you’re interested in agriculture, pharmacy, medicine, or bioengineering, you will find opportunities. However, before you land the job, you’ll need to ace the interview. Here are helpful tips to prepare for an interview in biotechnology.
To be invited to an interview, you must first find a job opening. Regularly check online classified ads and other specialized sites, such as The PetriDish, which only list biotech job openings. Also, check the websites of medium to large pharmaceutical companies. Once you find an opening, check if you know someone at the company – your application will likely be given more attention if you reach out.
Staying current about the industry in Canada will allow you to showcase your knowledge in interviews comfortably. Subscribe to the biotech newsletters or blogs to stay informed.
As your potential employer has never seen you at work in the lab, they’ll ask you questions to figure out how you’d perform on the job. You may be asked to solve a hypothetical question so they can assess your depth and technical knowledge.
Biotech intersects with many disciplines, so it’s important to know about the other related disciplines as well. So, when you’re studying or working, make sure to talk to people in other disciplines and with different backgrounds.
With a positive outlook for biotechnology jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options.
Interested in learning more about working in Canada?
Are you moving to Canada soon or already here? Do you need to find a job? Would you like to find good resources for finding employment in Canada? If so, join us for a free webinar where you can ask an expert your questions. We’ll discuss what you can do to make yourself more marketable to potential employers.
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Are you looking to buy a franchise in Canada but are unsure if you can afford the costs? It’s true, an average middle-class salary alone probably won’t be enough to make your dream a reality. But, that doesn’t mean starting a franchise is impossible even on a limited budget. You just have to know where to find the help you need.
Start-up costs vary widely and can range from as low as $10,000 to more than $1,000,000. A big factor is whether or not you need to own own or lease real estate for your franchise business. You can find the cost to open a franchise in the franchisor’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Item 5 contains the initial or franchise fee, or the cost to join the franchise system. Item 7 lists additional start-up costs required such as real estate, equipment, inventory, signage, business licenses, and insurance.
You will also want to include a budget for professional fees for accounting and legal advice. It’s vital to speak to a franchise lawyer and financial advisor/business accountant before you sign a franchise agreement. They can help you to identify any legal or financial issues that may not be in your best interest.
To determine how much you can afford to invest in a franchise, you need to have a good understanding of your current finances. You can start by determining your net worth by compiling a balance sheet that lists all assets and liabilities. Some franchise experts advise that you should not invest more than 15% of your own money, but this percentage may vary. When you work with a financial advisor, they can help you determine how much of your own money you can afford to invest based on your financial situation.
Unless you are interested in a low-cost franchise, you will likely need to borrow the majority of the funds to purchase your business. In general, lenders require you to provide 20-25% of the total investment. For example, if you have $50,000 to invest, you can research franchise opportunities in the $200,000 range. Before you approach any lender, make sure you are current on all bill payments and correct any mistakes on your credit report.
It’s really quite simple to calculate your approximate net worth in three simple steps:
| STEP ONE: | STEP TWO: | STEP THREE: |
|---|---|---|
| List your assets (what you own). This may include your: – Savings – Retirement accounts – Market value of your house and car. | List your liabilities (what you owe). This may include your: – Mortgage – Outstanding loans – Credit card debt | Subtract your total liabilities from your total assets and you’ve just calculated your approximate net worth. |
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Borrowers with good credit and collateral may be able to get a traditional loan from a bank or credit union. Most lenders are more likely to offer financing for a franchise business because they are associated with an established brand that has been proven in the marketplace. However, if you are interested in investing in a lesser-known brand such as an emerging franchise, or don’t have a stellar credit rating or collateral, a traditional lender may not be an option and you will need to look elsewhere for funding.
When financing their new business venture, many franchisees will use personal savings like registered accounts such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs) to finance their new business. Some franchisees have used their homes as collateral to finance a franchise. But, the overall risk as well as tax implications often don’t make sense to finance a franchise in Canada in this manner.
Small businesses (including franchises) looking to purchase or improve their assets for new or expanded operations could benefit from the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP).
This government-sponsored loan program offers up to $1,000,000 ($350,000 for equipment and leasehold improvements). The program only finances equipment, leaseholds and real estate and can’t be applied to marketing costs, royalties, and franchise fees.
A key benefit is that 85% of the loan is guaranteed to the lending Bank by the Federal government. This means less risk to you, the borrower.
Other benefits include:
The lender (bank) doesn’t provide this free and will usually charge:
When more conventional lending sources can’t produce enough cash to fund your franchise start-up costs, you may need to look beyond traditional methods. An investor such as a family member, friend, or business partner may be willing to offer you funding as well. However, allowing others to invest can come with some strings attached.
Investors may require the ability to make decisions about the business and most will expect a return on their investment, which will cut your profits at first. Still, it may be worthwhile to take on investors if it allows you to get the franchise up and running.
No matter what kind of financing you choose, it’s important to get all the facts in advance so that you’re not caught off guard when it comes time to repay loans or investors down the line.
A limited budget does not have to mean postponing or giving up your plans to buy a franchise. By finding the right financing options to meet your needs you can buy a franchise now and take charge of your future.
Thinking about searching for a medical radiation technologist (MRT) job in Canada? Like many other healthcare professionals, MRTs are in demand because the healthcare industry is experiencing shortages. So, if you want to continue your career in Canada, continue reading! You’ll learn about medical radiation technologist job requirements, salaries, career options, job search techniques, and more!
To work as a medical radiation technologist, employers usually require that you have completed a two- to three-year college or other approved program in diagnostic or magnetic resonance imaging (for radiological technologists and magnetic resonance technologists), nuclear medicine technology, or radiation therapy. Or, you must have completed a Bachelor of Health Sciences in radiography, nuclear medicine, or radiation therapy along with a period of supervised practical training.
In addition, licensing is required by a regulatory body in some provinces. However, membership with a provincial association is required by other provinces. Medical radiation technologists must be certified by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists in all provinces except Quebec and British Columbia.
It’s important to research medical radiation technologist job requirements before you move to Canada. This will make it easier to continue your career when you arrive. In fact, there are some steps that you can take before you arrive that will help you to find a job faster. There are steps that you can take before you immigrate to improve your chances of practicing your profession in Canada.
Medical radiation technologists require a license to work in the provinces of Alberta, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. So, you need to register with the relevant provincial authority to practice and use the professional designation.
Membership with a provincial association is required in the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, and Northwest Territories.
The Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) is the national professional association and certifying body. CAMRT represents four disciplines:
To help internationally educated medical radiation technologists work in Canada, CAMRT provides online tools and resources to assess your credentials and help you prepare for exams.
Job prospects for medical radiation technologists are good for the next few years. With the healthcare system experiencing a significant shortage of workers, there is a great opportunity for internationally trained professionals to continue their MRT careers in Canada. Depending on your location and qualifications, both full-time and part-time opportunities are available.
It’s smart to research your profession before you arrive in Canada. And, a good place to start researching job requirements is with the National Occupational Code (NOC) 32121 (NOC 2021 Version 1.0). The NOC provides a standard definition of the role of medical radiation technologists, along with example titles, main duties, and job requirements. This information will also help you when you begin your job search in Canada.
Internationally trained medical radiation technologists must meet the licensing requirements in Canada to practice. International graduates must take part in a credential recognition process. Some can benefit from bridging programs offered by local colleges and universities.
Below we explain the steps you will need to take to work as a Medical Radiation Technologist in Canada.
Credential recognition is the process of verifying and assessing your skills, competencies, and international credentials fairly and rigorously. The best way to learn about the credential recognition process is to contact the provincial or territorial regulatory body where you plan to settle. They can advise you about the documents that you require, licensing fees, and more. It’s a good idea to take this step before you arrive in Canada and then decide the date that you will depart for Canada.
Depending on the province you intend to settle in, your licensing process may include:
When you know the licensure procedure and understand what the MRT regulatory body expects, you can carefully complete your application. The licensure process has many stages and can seem complicated. And you’ll also require a significant financial and personal commitment to pursue the process. Preparing financially for this reality is important.
If you plan to enrol in a college or university program in Canada, you may require an education evaluation. Contact the school that you plan to attend to find out what’s required and if there is a specific credential assessment agency that you should use to verify your international education.
Here are some resources you can consult:
World Education Services (WES) – Ontario
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta
The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia
To find more organizations and agencies providing credential evaluation, assessment and qualification recognition services click here.
Canadian employers put a high emphasis on soft skills. These are the personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and medical radiation technologist career prospects. Unlike your hard skills such as technical, analysis, and science skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly.
Soft skills like communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills are important for medical radiation technologists. As a medical radiation technologist, you must be sensitive to the patient’s physical and psychological needs and have the necessary technical skills. If your hard skills get you an interview, most likely it’s your soft skills that will help you get the job and succeed in the role.
Though not a must, upgrading your education and skills through a bridging program or other educational courses can be an important part of your journey to work as an MRT in Canada. You will constantly face changing technology and varied demands from patients, employers, the government, and the general public. Therefore, it’s vital to commit to lifelong learning to demonstrate professional growth.
You may have strong technical skills but need to upgrade your communication skills. Strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages, English or French – are important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through school boards or settlement agencies.
There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT) in Ontario. And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you better job opportunities.
Bridging programs can help you to transition more quickly into the Canadian labour market. They help to “bridge” your international experience and training to the Canadian workplace. Many colleges, universities, and immigrant-serving agencies offer bridging programs you may be eligible for. The following programs may be suitable for you:
Access & Options for Internationally Educated Health Professionals
The program assists foreign-trained qualified health professionals in certification and registration within Canada. An individualized program will be developed to prepare internationally trained medical radiation technologists to write the CAMRT certification examination.
Medical Radiological Technology Bridging
The program provides tools to assess and enhance the practical readiness of internationally educated medical radiological (x-ray) technologists for the Alberta workplace.
Continuing your education after you arrive in Canada can also boost your career options. Medical radiation technology programs are offered at the college and university level in schools across Canada. There are over 20 colleges and universities that offer medical radiation technology programs including:
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
Anderson College of Health, Business and Technology
British Columbia Institute of Technology
Camosun College
College of New Caledonia
Red River College Polytechnic
Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick
Horizon Health Network (University of New Brunswick Saint John)
College of the North Atlantic
Dalhousie University
Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
Cambrian College
Collège Boréal
Confederation College
Fanshawe College of Applied Arts & Technology
Mohawk College-McMaster University
The Michener Institute of Education at UHN
UPEI School of Radiography
Saskatchewan Polytechnic
For a complete list of accredited and registered health education programs, visit Accreditation Canada.
The following associations provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT)
Alberta
Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic & Therapeutic Technologists
British Columbia
New Brunswick Association of Medical Radiation Technologists
Nova Scotia College of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Professionals
College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario
Saskatchewan Association of Medical Radiation Technologists
Manitoba Association of Medical Radiation Technologists
Ontario Association of Medical Radiation Sciences
College of Allied Health Professionals of Prince Edward Island
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
The groups offer networking events, mentoring, information sessions, and professional development opportunities to help increase your employment opportunities. Here are a couple of resources to consider:
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (isans); helps newcomer professionals with their full economic and social integration in the province of Nova Scotia.
Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC): helps newcomers to expand their professional networks and understand the local labour market.
For more information about working in Canada, visit our Finding a Job in Canada page. We’ll help you to achieve your goals in Canada!
According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, Medical radiation technologist salaries fall between $25 to $50 per hour. The national average hourly medical radiation technology salary is $36.22 per hour.
To give you an example, if you worked a full-time role and worked 40 hours per week you could make between $52,000 and $104,000 per year. How much you make depends on where you live, your skills, experience, areas of specialization, and if you work full-time or part-time.
Medical radiation technologist salaries differ based on where you live. Here are the most recent Medical Radiation Technologist salary numbers in Canada as of 2022:
| Province | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | 25.00 | 36.22 | 46.15 |
| Alberta | 35.00 | 44.00 | 54.66 |
| British Columbia | 32.00 | 40.50 | 43.00 |
| Manitoba | 30.82 | 36.21 | 44.00 |
| New Brunswick | 30.82 | 32.61 | 43.00 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 30.71 | 34.00 | 46.00 |
| Northwest Territories | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Nova Scotia | 29.50 | 33.50 | 45.00 |
| Nunavut | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ontario | 32.00 | 40.00 | 47.34 |
| Prince Edward Island | 27.00 | 36.10 | 46.00 |
| Quebec | 23.00 | 31.00 | 37.42 |
| Saskatchewan | 33.91 | 38.00 | 46.41 |
| Yukon | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Job prospects for MRTs depend on where they work in Canada. So, it’s helpful to research job prospects across Canada. Labour shortage conditions in healthcare are expected to persist from 2019 – 2028. And as Canada’s population ages, there will be greater demand for health services.
Job prospects are considered good in almost all provinces. To research job prospects by province, click here. Within each province, larger cities typically offer the best opportunities because there are larger healthcare networks, more hospitals, and a greater demand for MRTs.
To work as a medical radiation technologist in Canada you will follow a similar path as many other healthcare careers. You need the right academic credentials, relevant work experience, and a plan for where you want to work within the country. Below is valuable information to help you pursue a medical radiation technologist career in Canada:
In Canada, medical radiation technologists are employed in hospitals, private clinics, cancer centres, research laboratories, industry, education, and administration. Hospitals and clinics employ MRTs in the specialties of magnetic resonance and radiography. Major clinics, cancer centres, and hospitals in large urban centres employ medical radiation technologists in the specialties of radiation therapy and nuclear medicine. Very few medical radiation technologists are self-employed.
Many medical radiation technology professionals work full time, with a forty-hour work week including weekend, evening, and standby work. However, some do work part-time, as there is a growing number of part-time, casual, and contract employment positions available.
For information on jobs for medical radiation technologists in Canada, see the CAMRT, where you will find a “job bank.” You may find information about available jobs on provincial organizations’ websites.
You can also visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website to search for hospitals and other healthcare settings where you may be interested in working. This designation recognizes employers with exceptional workplace diversity and inclusion programs.
Canadian employers may not know how to assess your international education and work experience or prefer you to have experience working in Canada. Lack of local market experience can pose a challenge for newcomers, but there are ways to overcome some of these challenges.
When an employer tells you that you have no “Canadian experience” often they mean that they’re not sure if you will fit into their workplace. They are not sure that you are familiar with Canadian codes and standards of practice or that you have the communication skills or interpersonal savvy to be an asset to their organization. Employers want professionals who possess the skills that will allow them to fit right in and over time become leaders.
You can overcome this barrier and acquire an understanding of Canadian workplaces by volunteering, networking, finding a mentor, and even job shadowing. This experience may even help you to get a higher medical radiation technologist salary.
Volunteering is an important part of Canadian society and lifestyle. It can help you settle in faster, make friends, practice communication skills, or learn new technical skills. In some cases, it may even lead to a job at the organization where you are volunteering. You can find volunteer opportunities in non-profit organizations and community centres where you can use your knowledge and expertise. Look for opportunities in the health sector, technical work, lab work, or other jobs involving contact with people. You can even use your volunteer work to help you gain “Canadian experience” and add it to your medical radiation technologist resume.
To learn about opportunities, you can contact Volunteer Canada or other community organizations in your area. As well, you can ask your relatives, friends, or colleagues about volunteer opportunities that match your skills and interests.
Another good way to acquire Canadian experience is with an internship. Career Edge is an innovative internship program that allows you to apply for paid internships at Canada’s leading private, public, or non-profit sector employers. The program regularly posts internship opportunities and offers paid internships of four, six, nine, or 12 months for recent immigrants who:
Career Edge is a not-for-profit social enterprise that has managed over 9,200 paid internships across Canada since 1996.
A mentor is someone who can coach or mentor you and share information about working in your profession in Canada. It’s helpful to find someone such as a practicing medical radiation technologist or with a background in healthcare, who can help you navigate the Canadian work environment.
Many professional associations or firms offer this type of “buddy” program, where a seasoned member guides a junior one. Contact the relevant associations in your area to learn about mentorship opportunities.
As well, many bridging programs and immigrant-serving agencies have mentorship programs where they match a newcomer with someone in their professional field. The Mentoring Partnership brings together recent skilled immigrants and established professionals in occupation-specific mentoring relationships. Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council manages this program.
An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a person who is currently working in your field.
You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather find out more about the profession in Canada. For example, you may want to learn more about industry trends, and regulatory, or technological changes that are affecting the field.
An informational interview with a contact from your network can be an excellent source of medical radiation technologist career information. In addition to getting information about the industry, you can benefit from their first-hand experiences working in the field in Canada.
An essential activity to help you discover job leads, gain information about a particular firm or industry, and meet others in your field is networking. As many job vacancies are not advertised, networking with others can help you to discover available jobs in this “hidden job market”. These jobs also offer very competitive medical radiation technologist salaries and benefits.
Networking is really about meeting people, building relationships, and sharing information. Ideal places to network include conferences and professional associations.
LinkedIn is also helpful for networking.is another important professional tool for networking. It is great for reconnecting with your ex-colleagues and employers, searching by company or jobs, and getting introductions and recommendations. You can also join some related professional groups. But remember, you have to allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking.
Not exactly a mentorship or a volunteer opportunity, job shadowing is an interesting way to learn about the industry in Canada and make professional contacts. Job shadowing can last anywhere from an hour to an entire day, and it’s a great way to learn and understand the Canadian workplace.
As in volunteering, identify 5-10 companies or organizations you wish to work for and try to use your network to approach medical radiation technologists – or other employees in a healthcare role – who work there. Contact them, explain that you are a newcomer, and ask if it’s possible to job shadow them for some time to get familiar with the work culture.
While there is a demand for medical radiation technologists in Canada, the job market is competitive. So, you need to prepare yourself to succeed in the job search. You must look for jobs in the region where you will settle and take time to develop a plan to find work. There are many ways to search for jobs within the healthcare field. Consider these tips to gain employment:
Finding a job in Canada may be very different than in your home country. Most settlement agencies and other immigrant-serving organizations can help you to find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters, prepare for interviews, and understand what Canadian employers are looking for.
To find immigrant services in your area, click here.
Your resume must showcase your technical excellence, proficiency, and accomplishments as a medical radiation technologist.
To show you’re the best candidate for the job, your resume should highlight how your abilities and skills contributed to your accomplishments.
Here are some additional tips to consider when writing your medical radiation technologist resume:
While the future looks bright for medical radiation technologists in Canada, you need to prepare well for your job interview.
Prior to your job interview, review your qualifications for the medical radiation technologist position so you can speak to your qualifications with confidence. Assess your experience to determine how you can contribute high value to the position. And, finally, prepare responses to some questions that a hiring manager may ask you.
Here are some questions to consider:
Don’t be shy. Identify three to five key strengths that directly relate to the position such as your organizational skills, collaboration skills, and leadership skills.
This is the time to demonstrate your organizational and time management skills.
The hiring manager wants to know that you actively pursue continuous learning. You can discuss a recent conference you attended, professional journals you regularly read, or specific training you have or will receive.
During the interview, you will also have to respond to standard technical questions as well.
While you can never know exactly what to expect in an interview, research and being well-prepared can make all the difference.
With a positive outlook for Medical Radiation Technologist jobs in Canada, and an understanding of job requirements, careers, salaries, and job search techniques, now is the time to start building your plan!
Accounting jobs are a popular career choice that employs more than 200,000 people in Canada. Prepare yourself to continue your accounting career in Canada with this helpful overview of job requirements, salaries, and job search techniques. Accountants play an essential role in helping organizations manage the financial function of their business. Currently, many companies need professionals to fill accounting jobs. So, there is a great opportunity for newcomers and internationally trained professionals.
Accounting is a professional career that requires certification. Accounting job requirements in Canada for chartered professional accountants (CPA), and chartered accountants (CA) require a university degree. Also, you must complete a professional training program approved by a provincial Institute of Chartered Accountants. Some provinces will also require either two years or 30 months of on-the-job training and membership in a provincial Institute of Chartered Accountants upon completing the Uniform Evaluation Exam.
If you plan to continue your career in Canada, getting organized before you arrive is important. If you plan to offer public accounting services, such as auditing the financial statements of corporations, each province and territory has different licensing requirements. Inquire about this when you contact the regulatory body in the province where you plan to settle.
There are steps that you can take before you move to Canada to improve your chances of continuing your accounting career when you arrive in Canada:
Understanding accounting job requirements can help you to find work faster when you arrive in Canada. Newcomers to Canada often discover that they struggle to find work in their chosen profession after they arrive. This is also true for accountants who will have to get accounting qualifications recognized and gain Canadian work experience.
Financial auditors and accountants belong to a regulated profession in Canada. And each province and territory regulate the profession. In Canada, the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) is a highly sought business and accounting designation.
Are you moving to Canada soon or already here? Do you need to find a job? Would you like to find good resources for finding employment in Canada? If so, join us for a free webinar where you can ask an expert your questions. We’ll discuss what you can do to make yourself more marketable to potential employers.
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARJob prospects for accountants can vary in Canada. Therefore, it’s vital to research provincial and local job prospects and labour markets carefully. This will allow you to match your skills and experience with the accounting job requirements across Canada. This knowledge may even inform the city that you choose to settle in Canada.
Based on the prospects from the Government of Canada Job Bank, the market for accounting jobs is relatively balanced. But there are still a lot of opportunities for newcomers looking to start accounting careers. Projections are good in all provinces and territories across the country. Plus, accounting salaries in Canada are excellent.
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for financial auditors and accountants is NOC 11100. The NOC provides a standard definition of accounting jobs in Canada and is used by various groups, including job seekers. Before searching for an accounting job, it’s helpful to read the NOC description to ensure that you perform similar job duties in your home country. You can also find example job titles that accountants use in Canada. This will be helpful when you begin your job search.
The process to become an accredited accountant in Canada depends on your status.
Your current status will determine your next steps. These steps could involve credential recognition, upgrading your skills, completing a bridging program, or pursuing further accounting education.
Provincial and territorial accounting associations provide information about the steps you must take to practice accounting in Canada. However, in most cases, they cannot assess your credentials before you arrive in Canada. For this purpose, you need to contact the national association that governs your branch of the accounting profession. Either they offer the assessment services or they can recommend evaluation services.
If you are applying to a Canadian university, you may need your academic credentials assessed. And in some cases, an employer may request your academic assessment. You can contact one of the following agencies for assistance:
World Education Services (WES) – Ontario
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta
The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia
The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC)
The Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada
To find more organizations and agencies that provide credential evaluation, assessment, and qualification recognition services click here.
To become a licensed accountant, you will have to complete an accredited program of study, supervised work experience, and a professional ethics exam. Skills upgrading courses and bridging programs can help you to obtain your license.
Employers in Canada require accountants to have advanced math and finance skills. You are also expected to have strong communication and interpersonal skills, business and report writing skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. You’ll also be expected to be familiar with accounting software programs and applications.
You may also need training or skills upgrading to enhance your “soft skills”. Soft skills can help you to get a job and successfully achieve your career goals. For example, in Canada, effective communication skills are essential and are as important as hard skills. And, if you are applying for a management position, soft skills are even more valuable than technical skills. Having strong soft skills can also help you increase your accounting salary.
Even though accountants work with numbers, communication is a vital part of working in accounting careers. Improving your verbal and written language skills can help. You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find free or affordable English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes at school boards or settlement agencies.
There are even language courses that teach professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and occupation-specific language Training (OSLT) in Ontario. And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you better job opportunities.
Bridging programs help internationally educated and trained accountants develop the professional competencies required to work in Canada. Here are some of the schools and organizations offering bridging programs:
York University Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals
CPAC Bridging Program for Internationally Trained Accounting Professionals
University of Lethbridge – CPA Bridging
isans: Internationally Educated Accountants Bridging Program
More than 100 post-secondary institutions offer college, university, and post-graduate accounting programs. You can choose programs that specialize in specific types of accounting. Some of the top 10 accounting schools in Canada:
| WORLD RANKING | UNIVERSITY (CITY) |
|---|---|
| 11 | University of Toronto (Toronto) |
| 42 | University of British Columbia (Vancouver) |
| 56 | University of Alberta (Edmonton) |
| 76 | University of Waterloo (Waterloo) |
| 82 | McGill University (Montreal) |
| 98 | McMaster University (Hamilton) |
| 99 | Western University (London) |
| 104 | York University (Toronto) |
| 105 | Queen’s University (Kingston) |
| 106 | University of Calgary (Calgary) |
Canadian accounting associations can provide information about certification, professional development, education, and accounting job requirements.
Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada)
Alberta
British Columbia
Manitoba
New Brunswick
Newfoundland and Labrador
Northwest Territories
CPA Northwest Territories/Nunavut
Nova Scotia
Ontario
Prince Edward Island
Quebec
Saskatchewan
Yukon
Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Yukon Territory (ICAY)
Professional immigrant networks are volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
These groups offer networking events, mentoring, information sessions, professional development opportunities, and connections to job opportunities.
Association of Filipino Canadian Accountants (AFCA)
AFCA is a non-profit organization based in Toronto. AFCA is affiliated with the National Council of Philippine-American Canadian Accountants (NCPACA), an umbrella organization of Filipino accounting associations from 10 major cities in North America. Membership includes designated accountants and students with various accounting bodies in Canada, the United States and the Philippines who work in various accounting capacities.
Canadian-Chinese Professional Accountants Association (CCPAA-ON)
CCPAA-ON provides a medium for its members to share views and experiences. Its members include professional accountants and students from all three of Canada’s accounting bodies (i.e. CA, CGA, and CMA). Other financial professionals who have joined CCPAA include actuaries, bankers, and financial advisers.
Institute of Chartered Accountants of India – Toronto Chapter (ICAI)
ICAI – Toronto Chapter is a not-for-profit organization in Toronto, Canada for the Alumni (i.e. Associate and Fellow members) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The primary objective of the Toronto Chapter is to provide networking and professional development opportunities to its members.
Sri Lankan Accountants Association of Canada (SAAC)
SAAC works to enhance the knowledge of its members and provide professional development activities, job opportunities, as well as social interaction for members.
The average accounting salary in Canada is $38.46 per hour, according to the Government of Canada Job Bank. How much you make per hour ranges from $19.95/hour in Nova Scotia to $90.98/hour in Northwest Territories.
The highest average accounting salary per hour is in Northwest Territories ($90.98/hour). Alberta follows at $44.18/hour, and Saskatchewan at $40.87/hour.
When you what to expect to earn as an accountant in Canada, you can assess a fair market rate for your skills and experience.
In Canada, the average salary for accounting jobs can vary based on factors such as your specific role and the city you reside. However, salaries can be quite high and many positions have opportunities for advancement over time.
As well, accountants are in demand across Canada and this will also influence salaries. For immigrants to Canada, this can be a benefit as companies will look to recruit new employees from around the world.
Below is accounting salary information by province.
| Province | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | 25.00 | 44.18 | 67.33 |
| British Columbia | 22.12 | 35.00 | 55.29 |
| Manitoba | 20.51 | 35.00 | 54.95 |
| New Brunswick | 20.51 | 31.25 | 54.95 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 22.00 | 38.46 | 61.54 |
| Northwest Territories | 27.43 | 51.37 | 90.98 |
| Nova Scotia | 19.95 | 32.97 | 58.97 |
| Nunavut | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ontario | 23.00 | 37.98 | 65.87 |
| Prince Edward Island | 20.00 | 34.35 | 57.69 |
| Quebec | 24.04 | 36.81 | 57.69 |
| Saskatchewan | 22.67 | 40.87 | 61.79 |
| Yukon | 22.62 | 36.65 | 55.14 |
While these figures show an average wage per hour, this will vary based on the following factors:
To understand what you can expect to earn, it’s important to research all of these factors. Your research will give you a better understanding of the salary ranges. This information will also be helpful when you apply for jobs in Canada and negotiate your salary.
In addition to a yearly salary, you can expect to receive a benefits package from your employer. Most employers offer accountants a generous benefits package as part of a total compensation package.
These benefits may include things such as:
With these additional benefits, an average salary for accounting jobs in Canada is very rewarding.
Since every business needs accountants, most Canadian cities offer employment opportunities in the accounting sector. However, large cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary have a higher concentration of financial companies. So, there will be more accounting career opportunities in these areas. Larger cities also typically have a higher average accounting salary than smaller cities.
In Canada, accountants can work in different types of organizations and perform many functions. Accountants can work in:
Some of the main functions include:
There are more than 28,000 businesses offering accounting services in Canada. Some of the top accounting employers in Canada include:
You can also visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. The award recognizes Canada’s best employers for diversity and inclusion programs.
To continue your accounting career in Canada, your first step is to ensure you get credential recognitions for your international education and experience.
The next step is to look for an accounting job in Canada. However, looking for an accounting job in Canada may differ from your home country, but these tips can help you with your job search.
The Canadian job market is very competitive, so prepare and understand the steps to follow to gain employment. As well, finding a job in Canada may be very different than in your home country.
Here are a few helpful ways that you can search for accounting jobs:
Finding a job in Canada may be different than in your home country and you may need to find jobs, update your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for interviews. Most settlement agencies provide free employment services to help with your job search.
A strong resume can help you to stand out among other job applicants. These tips can help you to highlight your specific traits and abilities clearly and concisely. Importantly, you want to describe your career accomplishments and the results that you achieved.
An information interview is a great way to learn about accounting job requirements in Canada. Typically, this is a 20 – 30 minute meeting you schedule with an accountant to learn more about the profession in Canada.
You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather find out whether or not a particular position or industry might be a good fit for you, An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of career information. For example, in addition to gathering industry information, you also benefit from hearing about your contact’s first-hand experience within the accounting profession and industry.
Networking is a key activity that can help you discover job leads, gather advice and information about a particular company or industry, and meet others so that you can expand your network.
Good places to network, build relationships, and share information include conferences, associations, and education events.
LinkedIn is another important networking tool. It is great to connect with former colleagues and employers, search for companies, and learn about accounting job requirements in Canada.
You can also build your network with people in the accounting sector and join related professional groups.
Most interviews for accounting positions will follow a standard structure including: Introduction, Setting the Scene, Exploration, Selling, and Closure. Naturally, questions will vary depending on the employer, the job level, your experience, and the company’s recruitment practice. However, here are some key areas that interviewers will assess:
In Canada, behavioural-based interviews are quite common. The interviewer(s) will ask questions to explore your actions or behaviours from past activities to discover how you would perform in the job that you are interviewing for. Your response to these questions should clearly demonstrate the situation or task, the actions you took, and the final result.
Expect questions that explore your accounting training, plans to become a chartered professional accountant, qualifications, and understanding of the accounting practice in Canada.
This relates to key skills for accounting job requirements such as analytical skills, communication skills, and the ability to work to tight deadlines and deliver quality and accurate output.
These questions tend to explore how you plan to develop your finance skills and your overall career goals.
If you are applying for more senior Finance positions, expect questions that explore your ability to coach and lead an accounting team, and your ability to build relationships and generate income streams.
When preparing for your interview, here are some sample questions you can expect to answer for accounting jobs including Analysts and Auditors, Management, Financial and Project Accountants, etc.
In addition to preparing for questions you might be asked during interviews, you should also prepare questions you would like to ask. Researching the company will help you to learn about the company, showcase your interest, and help to craft intelligent questions.
The interview is a good opportunity to discover how you can progress within the company, like moving from senior associate to managing director. Asking about career paths shows that you are forward-thinking, focused on your career, and able to grow and develop within the firm.
Be sure to ask thoughtful questions and avoid questions where the answer can be found on the company’s website. For example, you may want to inquire about a recent regulatory change and how the organization expects to respond.
Corporate culture is prized at many of the top accounting firms. The interview is a great opportunity to learn about the organizational culture. What is the best way to get a true sense of the company culture? Ask your interviewer why they work there and what keeps them there. Their answer will reveal what you can expect to experience if you join the company.
With a positive outlook for accounting jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options. Interested in learning more about working in Canada? Check out our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. We can help you achieve your career goals in Canada.
Social worker jobs remain a good career choice in Canada. Social workers play an important role in assisting people in many different settings such as schools, hospitals, health clinics, and government-run social programs. If you have international experience working as a social worker, you’ll need to meet certain qualifications to work in Canada. These qualifications can help you improve your standing, get a better job, and even find a higher social worker salary. If you’d like to continue your social work career in Canada, find out more about requirements, licensing, job search techniques, and even the salary of a social worker in Canada.
There are specific job requirements and qualifications that you must have to work in the field of social work in Canada. And to find a job, it’s vital to know the employment and social work job requirements in Canada. Learn how to prepare for a social worker job in Canada by reading this helpful overview.
It’s essential to research the social work profession before you come to Canada. Requirements to be a social worker may be different than in your home country. There are different skills, qualifications, and expectations. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take before you immigrate to improve your chances of continuing your social work career in Canada.
To achieve social worker career success, it’s important to understand the skills that the Canadian labour market requires. And you need to know if your international qualifications will meet the social work job requirements. To learn what you require to work as a social worker in Canada, you can take these preliminary steps:
Social work is a regulated profession in all provinces in Canada. And, only those who meet the standards set by the provincial regulatory bodies can use the titles of “Social Worker” and “Registered Social Worker.” These bodies issue licenses or certificates to individuals who meet their registration requirements.
The Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) is the national organization that represents social workers from across Canada. You need to apply directly to the appropriate provincial regulatory authority to become licensed as a social worker or registered social worker in Canada.
Understanding the current status of social work jobs and career opportunities is an important thing to understand before moving. Labour market conditions change over time.
As of 2021, there are about 68,000 people working in this field. According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, the supply and demand for social work jobs are balanced currently and this trend is expected to continue until 2031. This means, there could be much competition for jobs. As an international applicant, you’ll need to have strong qualifications and experience.
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada’s reference to occupations. You can use this tool to find social worker (NOC 41300) job requirements and labour market information. It’s a helpful place to start researching the social work occupation in Canada.
Social workers may have job titles such as:
The Canada Job Bank is another useful tool to learn more about your profession in Canada. Find out more at Canada Job Bank: Your Vital Research Tool.
Social workers in Canada, including those internationally trained must meet certain academic and professional standards. You’ll need to meet the education, work experience, and certification needs of the job based on provincial standards. Below are the steps to follow to work as a social worker in Canada:
One of the first things to do is to learn the employment and job requirements to work as a social worker in Canada. This will help you to understand if you meet the job requirements, or if you must take steps to meet the requirements. This could include getting recognition for your credentials.
To find out what you need, you can contact the regulatory body in the province or territory where you intend to settle in Canada. They will advise you on what documents and assessments you require. You may have to submit:
All documents must have certified English or French translation (depending on the province).
Contact the professional association in the province or territory you will settle in before you move to get more information about the schedule of exams and consider that when deciding the actual date of your departure to Canada.
Knowing the licensure procedure and what the regulatory body expects from you is vital. So be sure to take time to complete the application process properly. The Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) assesses your credentials. Learn more about the CASW application procedure The CASW assessment is accepted in all Canadian provinces, except for British Columbia and Quebec. These two provinces have their own assessment process.
If you plan to enroll in a college or university program to upgrade your skills, you may need an education evaluation. You can contact the school you plan to attend to find out what credential assessment agency you should use and the steps to follow.
Make sure to showcase your international education and skills. As well, build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore university and college options thoroughly before deciding. You might be able to have advanced standing, transfer some of your credits, and benefit from prior learning assessment options by using your international credentials and experience to gain credit or course exemptions. This way you will complete your program more quickly, without wasting money and repeating the education you already have.
Some options to consider are:
World Education Services (WES) – Ontario
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta
The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia
In addition to accreditation, you may have to upgrade your skills to meet social work job requirements and get a job. So, you may have to:
Canadian employers expect social workers to have strong professional ethics, computer skills, and the ability to work in difficult situations. And equally important are your soft skills such as empathy, understanding, and communication skills. These skills can also help you increase your social worker’s salary.
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French –is extremely important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. As well, many settlement agencies offer free English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes.
There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT) in Ontario. And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good idea. and it may offer you more employment options.
Bridging programs are a good way to transition from your international experience and training to the Canadian workplace. Though there are not many bridging programs for internationally trained social workers, many colleges, universities, and immigrant-serving agencies offer courses or workshops related to the social work sector. You may be eligible for one. Do some research to find a program that’s suitable for you based on your social worker career aspirations.
Toronto Metropolitan University offers the Internationally Educated Social Work Professionals (IESW).
This program helps internationally educated social work professionals to work in their field in Ontario. Program participants can access training, workplace experience, employment support, and an occupation-specific communications course. In addition, this program will develop a peer support program for the effective workplace integration of participants.
In Alberta, you can upgrade your qualifications through the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW).
Most Canadian colleges and universities offer a social work program. These programs are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels with a number of areas of specialization. Some of the top schools for social work education in Canada are:
Learn more about program offerings by visiting university websites.
Each Canadian province has its own regulatory body to license social workers. Each body governs the social work profession and ensures members meet professional standards. The associations listed below can provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW)
Canadian Association of Social Work Education (CASWE)
Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW)
British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW)
Manitoba College of Social Workers
New Brunswick Association of Social Workers
Nova Scotia College of Social Workers
Newfoundland and Labrador College of Social Workers
Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
Prince Edward Island Association of Social Workers
Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec
Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers
British Columbia Association of Social Workers
The Association of Social Workers of Northern Canada (ASWNC)
Professional immigrant networks (PINS) are volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals. PINS exists to:
PINs organize networking events, mentoring, and job information sessions. As well, they provide professional development workshops, training, and connections to job opportunities.
While PINS may not exclusively serve the social work sector, they may have social workers among their membership:
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (isans) helps newcomer professionals with economic and social integration in the province of Nova Scotia.
Chinese Professionals Association of Canada
Javeriana University Professional Alumni Association in Canada
Mississauga Mandarin Association
Social worker salaries can range between $22 and $59 per hour. A full-time job working 40 hours per week could earn a social worker salary between $45,760 and $122,720 per year. The average hourly wage for a social worker in Canada is $36 per hour ($74,880 per year).
The region with the highest average hourly rate is Northwest Territories and the province with the lowest hourly wage is New Brunswick. Where you choose to live will play a big role in your social worker’s salary.
The salary of a social worker in Canada can vary based on your level of experience, skills, and knowledge. Using the information from the Canada Job Bank, you can research how much you can expect to earn in different cities and provinces across Canada. For your reference, here are the most recent social worker salary numbers in Canada (as of November 2022):
| PROVINCE | LOW ($/HOUR) | MEDIAN ($/HOUR) | HIGH ($/HOUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| National | 24.00 | 36.00 | 47.50 |
| Alberta | 22.84 | 38.00 | 49.15 |
| British Columbia | 26.42 | 40.00 | 45.79 |
| Manitoba | 23.00 | 34.89 | 46.00 |
| New Brunswick | 22.35 | 34.80 | 40.30 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 25.67 | 38.46 | 46.50 |
| Northwest Territories | 27.64 | 48.73 | 59.63 |
| Nova Scotia | 23.08 | 35.64 | 46.43 |
| Nunavut | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ontario | 23.08 | 35.90 | 49.74 |
| Prince Edward Island | 24.04 | 35.90 | 41.42 |
| Quebec | 24.00 | 35.00 | 45.22 |
| Saskatchewan | 26.33 | 38.00 | 43.00 |
| Yukon | 32.12 | 40.83 | 50.00 |
There are thousands of social organizations across Canada that employ social workers. However, it’s best to research the labour market to determine what provinces and cities have the greatest demand for social workers. You’ll have better success finding a job in the cities with a high demand for your skills and experience.
According to the Canadian Occupation Projections Systems, job prospects are good in many provinces including New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island (PEI), Quebec, Yukon Territory, and Nunavut.
Becoming a social worker in Canada follows a similar path as many other professions. You need the right academic credentials, relevant work experience, and a plan for where you want to work within the country. Below is valuable information to help you pursue a social worker in Canada:
Social workers can find employment in many organizations in Canada. Here’s a general list of places where social workers can work:
You can view a directory of Canadian organizations and job postings in the social sector by visiting Charity Village. The directory contains information about the non-profit sector in Canada. You can also learn about the companies that hire recent immigrants by visiting Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website. These employers offer programs to help newcomers transition to a new workplace and a new life in Canada.
Searching for a job in Canada may be different than how you would find a job in your home country. The Canadian job market is competitive, and it can be hard to find a job. And, it can take some time to find full-time work as a social worker, so you need to understand how to find a job and prepare for your job search.
Settlement agencies can help you with your job search. For example, they can help you broaden your search, identify other career options, or even other locations to consider. As well, they can suggest job-finding or networking groups in the social work field that you could join. Other job search techniques include:
Most settlement agencies can help you to:
Click the link to find immigrant services in your area.
An informational interview is a brief (20–30 minute) meeting with someone in your field. The purpose of the meeting is to learn more about working in the field in Canada. You can also use this interview to learn about social work job requirements.
You should not try to get a job during an informational interview. Instead, you want to explore whether a particular position or employer might be a good fit for your interests, skills, and knowledge. An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a helpful source of career information.
Networking is an essential tool that may give you job leads, and offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry that can strengthen your resume, cover letter, and interview skills. As many job vacancies are not advertised, you must connect with social workers and others within your field.
Good places to network include conferences, associations, and social mixers to meet people, build relationships, and share information.
LinkedIn is another important professional tool for networking. It is great to connect with former colleagues and employers, searching by company or jobs, and getting introductions and recommendations.
You can also mingle with people in the social sector and join some related professional groups.
Note that it’s not appropriate to ask a networking contact for a job, but if they know of any job leads, they may share them.
Remember, it takes time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight and therefore, you need to be patient. Get more great tips for successful networking:
A degree in social work can lead to finding a job as a counsellor, admissions adviser, case manager, and management and director positions. Here are some helpful resume-writing tips:
To get an interview for any social work position, you need to tailor your resume to the specific position you want. A functional resume works best for social workers. If you have experience working with at-risk children and adults with substance abuse problems, you can group your skills and experience to show the group that you worked with rather than your chronological work history.
When writing your resume for a social work position, include your statement of objective at the top. This will help frame your social worker career goals.
Good social work resumes focus on your desire to serve society. So, your resume should align with the agency’s mission and its needs. Clearly state how your experience aligns with the agency you are applying to. Blending your personal experience and education with the needs of the agency or hiring manager is key to getting your resume noticed.
Don’t be afraid to use numbers. If you worked with a 25-client caseload, tell a potential employer that, or list your success rate in preventing drug use in your adolescent clients. If you have served in director or management positions, state the budget you managed. Adding numbers can clearly show your work experience and give a potential employer insight into your skills and capabilities.
The social work field requires continuous professional development. List your education and any bridging programs and continuing education courses you have taken. Potential employers want to see that you meet the educational requirements to be a licensed social worker and you are improving your skills.
A job interview will include behavioural questions to ensure you meet social work job requirements. and experience or qualifications questions. These questions assess your experience and qualifications for the social work position.
Here are some sample interview questions that you might be asked for a social work position:
With a good outlook for social worker jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options.
Now is a good time to consider moving to Canada and working as a midwife in Canada. There are significant job shortages in the healthcare industry in the country, including midwives. This has created an opportunity for internationally trained midwives who are looking for midwife jobs in Canada. Midwife salaries are good and there are many midwife career opportunities.
A good place to start your research is with the Canadian Association of Midwives (CAM). They are a national organization representing midwives and the midwife profession in Canada. It provides leadership and advocacy for midwifery as a regulated, publicly funded, and vital part of the primary maternity care system in all provinces and territories. CAM also promotes the development of the profession in the public interest and contributes the midwifery perspective to the national health policy agenda.
Another helpful resource to conduct research about the profession is the Government of Canada Job Bank. Here you can explore information about regional wages, job prospects, and requirements.
If you’re interested in continuing your midwife career in Canada, explore the job requirements, job search techniques, professional associations, and more.
Researching midwife career requirements before you come to Canada can give you a head start once you arrive in the country.
Requirements are different than what you are accustomed to in your home country. It can be time-consuming to become a midwife, so it’s helpful to know what to expect.
There are steps that you can take before you immigrate to improve your chances of practicing your midwifery in Canada.
The midwife profession is regulated in Canada (except in Newfoundland and Labrador; Prince Edward Island, and Yukon Territory). In regulated provinces, provincial/territorial regulatory bodies set the standards for entry into the profession and issue licenses to practice to those eligible.
Midwives who register with a regulatory body can use the title “Registered Midwife”. This also allows you to perform duties that are restricted to midwives through legislation legally. So, it’s critical to gather information about the registration process before you move to Canada.
If you have international midwife qualifications, it’s essential to research the profession in Canada. What’s required, the type of duties, and example job titles. All the information will help you to prepare for your job search before and after you arrive in Canada.
According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, prospects for midwife jobs are very good in most provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan.
It’s projected there will be a shortage of midwives for 2022-2031. This is good news for internationally trained midwives. There will be lots of job opportunities in the coming years. This trend could also see midwife salaries increase in the coming years.
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a great place to begin your research. The NOC 31303 provides a standard definition of the midwife’s role. You can use the information to clearly understand the role, main duties, job requirements, and example titles. This information can help you conduct your job search more effectively in Canada.
To work as a midwife in Canada, employers usually require that you have completed an undergraduate degree program in midwifery (or equivalent program) along with supervised practical training. As well, to get a midwife job you must register with a regulatory body in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
Below we explain the steps you will need to take to work as a Midwife in Canada:
Internationally educated midwives must demonstrate that they have the skills, knowledge, and abilities required of a Canadian Registered Midwife. This process known as credentials recognition ensures that your international experience and credentials are assessed fairly and rigorously. Having your credentials recognized will also improve your midwife’s salary.
The following organization can assess your international credentials:
World Education Services (WES)
Comparative Education Service: University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
International Qualifications Assessment Service – Alberta (IQAS)
The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES).
To find more organizations and agencies that provide credential evaluation, assessment, and qualification recognition services click here.
Canadian employers put a high emphasis on soft skills, which are personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and career prospects. Unlike your technical or hard skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly. If your hard skills get you an interview, often it’s your soft skills that will get you the job and succeed in it.
If you plan to work in private practice, you need to have good business administration skills, such as hiring staff and record-keeping, and have knowledge of medico-legal issues and risk management.
Midwifery is relatively a new profession in Canada, and you must be willing to educate the public about it and deal with the challenges of integrating a new profession into the healthcare system.
If you plan to attend college or university to upgrade your skills, contact the school to find out what steps to take and what assessment agency to use to assess your education credentials.
Be sure to highlight your international education and skills. Build on your existing knowledge, skills, and education before you decide if you need to return to school for more training. You may be able to receive advanced standing, transfer some of your credits and benefit from prior learning assessment options and gain credit or course exemption. Any of these activities will allow you to complete additional education more quickly, save money, and avoid repeating the education you already have.
While you may have strong technical skills, often that’s not enough to get a job or maintain it afterward. You may need more training or skills upgrading.
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is extremely important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) through school boards or settlement agencies. There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT) in Ontario.
If you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you more employment opportunities.
Bridging programs are a good way to transition from your international experience and training to the Canadian workplace. Many colleges, universities, and immigrant-serving agencies offer bridging programs or workshops for newcomers. You may be eligible for one.
There are two bridging programs in Canada:
Internationally Educated Midwives Bridging Program (IEMBP)
The IEMBP program is for midwives who have completed their education at an approved midwifery program outside of Canada. It helps midwives to use their skills in a Canadian context.
International Midwifery Pre-registration Program (IMPP)
The IMPP is a bridging program for qualified midwives educated outside of Canada who wish to practice in Ontario. The program is intended for experienced international midwives, fluent in English, who have practiced midwifery for the past five years. It is not a re-education or re-training program.
Many immigrants take further education after coming to Canada. Some even want to change careers or enhance their careers with a Ph.D. or MBA. Learn more about the benefits of higher education for newcomers.
There are several Canadian universities offering midwifery programs. Each program administers exams recognized by their respective provincial regulatory bodies. The courses and programs will vary to some degree. Here are several schools to consider:
The following associations provide information about licensing, and certification, and offer professional development and networking opportunities. They can help you further your midwife career.
Canadian Association of Midwives
British Columbia College of Nurses & Midwives
Alberta
College of Midwives of Alberta
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan College of Midwives
Manitoba
College of Midwives of Manitoba
Ontario
College of Midwives of Ontario
Quebec
Ordre des sages-femmes du Québec
Nova Scotia
Midwifery Regulatory Council of Nova Scotia
New Brunswick
Midwifery Council of New Brunswick
Northwest Territories
Northwest Territories Health Professional Licensing (Midwifery)
Nunavut
Government of Nunavut Professional Practice – Health & Social Services
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
Activities offered include networking events, mentoring, and professional development opportunities. You can also learn about connections to job opportunities.
For example, isans: Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia helps newcomer professionals with their full economic and social integration in the province of Nova Scotia. In Ontario, you can access Professional Immigrant Networks (TRIEC).
Midwife salaries can start at $20 per hour and go up to $65 per hour. The median midwife salary is $54.01 per hour. From an annual salary perspective, midwives can expect to make between $41,600 and $135, 200 per year. The average midwife salary is $112, 340.
The compensation you’ll be offered will depend on your level of experience, education, and where you live in Canada. Quebec and Alberta have the lowest median hourly rate. Ontario and British Columbia have the highest median hourly rate.
Your earning potential can vary based on where you choose to work. A midwife’s salary can vary significantly based on your province and home city. Here are the most recent midwife salary numbers in Canada:
| Province | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | 20.00 | 48.27 | 57.31 |
| British Columbia | 43.40 | 57.95 | 63.00 |
| Manitoba | 35.00 | 49.69 | 55.71 |
| New Brunswick | 48.00 | 52.00 | 56.50 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 48.00 | 52.00 | 53.00 |
| Nova Scotia | 39.00 | 53.00 | 59.07 |
| Ontario | 25.00 | 56.92 | 65.00 |
| Quebec | 34.71 | 46.00 | 55.00 |
Job prospects can vary across Canada. Identifying the best locations or cities for midwives can help you decide what location offers the greatest job opportunities. Generally, job prospects in this occupation are very positive and demand is soaring for midwives from different cultures.
Though most Canadian cities offer employment opportunities to practice as a midwife, you may find more opportunities in fast-growing cities such as Edmonton or Calgary, Alberta. When looking for jobs, broaden your geographic area to include smaller cities and towns close to your target city. Some smaller regions may be willing to offer a higher midwife salary to recruit you to work in the area.
Before deciding where you want to settle in Canada, research and find out where there is a high demand for midwives.
Becoming a midwife in Canada is similar to many other healthcare professions. You’ll need to complete rigorous academic and practical training before you can work in the field. The following information can help you to continue your midwife career in Canada.
In Canada, midwives collaborate with other health professionals and consult with or refer to medical specialists as appropriate. They attend births in hospitals, birth centres, and at home. Midwives can work in hospitals, clinics, birthing centres, or in private practice.
Visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website to locate hospitals or healthcare centres that you might be interested in. The Best Diversity Employers receive this special designation for their commitment to workplace diversity, inclusion, and equity.
The demand for midwives is high in most Canadian cities. However, the Canadian job market is very competitive, so you must understand and prepare to gain employment. As well, finding a job in Canada may be very different than in your home country.
There are many ways through which you can search for opportunities to practice as a midwife.
Most settlement agencies and other immigrant-serving organizations offer help to find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters, prepare for interviews, understand what Canadian employers are looking for, and educate about self-employment. To find immigrant services in your area, click here.
As the Canadian job market is competitive, your resume needs to stand out from other midwifery applicants.
Your resume is the most important part of your midwife job search. It’s your marketing tool that shows your credentials and an invitation for employers to learn about your midwifery skills and qualifications.
Submitting a well-written resume along with a strong cover letter is the primary step in your job application process. Your goal is to write an effective resume that highlights your relevant experience and accomplishments to spark interest in that will spark their interest in interviewing you. Your resume must link your experience, education, and skills directly to the midwife job description. As you begin to write your resume, work on the content and composition, then decide on a format that highlights your strengths and career goals. Expect to go through several drafts in this process.
Your application for your midwifery post has been successful and you’ve been invited to interview – well done! Having reached this stage of the selection process, you need to prepare for your interview. The interview is your chance to show potential employers you have the right personality, qualifications, experience, and proven track record for the role.
During the interview, the hiring manager will ask you standard questions that you can easily prepare for. However, they may ask questions that you do not expect. But the more you prepare, the more confident you will be. So, focus your responses around the key competencies and skills of the midwife job.
Here are some common questions that you can expect to answer.
The interviewer may ask questions to gain insight into your approach to work situations and people. For example:
Prepare to ask questions at the end of your interview to show your genuine interest in the position. For example:
An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a midwife to learn more about the profession in Canada.
You should not try to get a midwifery job during an informational interview but rather find out more about practising midwifery in Canada. An informational interview with a contact from your network can be an excellent source of career information. In addition to gathering information about the midwife profession in Canada, you’ll benefit from their first-hand experiences and impressions.
Meeting new people, building relationships, and sharing information is really what networking is all about. It’s also an essential activity that can help you discover job leads, learn about the profession in Canada, and expand your network. This is particularly important if you’re new to Canada.
As many midwife job vacancies are not advertised, connecting with other midwives can help you find a job in what’s known as the “hidden job market”. Good places to network include conferences and association events.
LinkedIn is another important professional tool for networking. It is great to connect with former colleagues, search for companies and jobs, and get introductions to people currently working in a midwife job.
You can also join related professional groups to learn about midwifery in Canada, make contacts, and access important resources. But remember, that you have to allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight and it’s helpful to be patient. Starting to network before you move to Canada can help you identify opportunities.
With a positive outlook for Midwife jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options.
Optometry jobs are one of the many within healthcare experiencing a shortage now or will soon. The Canadian population is aging and many in the profession are retiring. This has created a great opportunity for internationally trained optometrists to pursue optometry careers in Canada. If you’re currently in or have graduated optometry school abroad, moving to Canada is worth considering.
Becoming an optometrist in Canada requires years of education and training. A Doctor of Optometry requires seven to eight years of post-secondary education to obtain a professional designation.
To start, you’ll need to complete a Bachelor of Science degree or higher from a recognized optometry school. Following this, you need to complete a four-year Doctor of Optometry Degree at a school of optometry from an accredited university. In addition to an optometry degree, graduates must meet provincial licensing requirements in the province or territory where they plan to settle. If you plan to continue your optometry career in Canada, you need to familiarize yourself with the necessary steps to complete. Below is an overview of optometrist job requirements, job search strategies, optometry salaries, and much more.
There are steps that you can take before you move to Canada to improve your chances of practicing your profession in Canada. Completing as many steps as possible can help you make a quicker transition in your optometry career once you move:
Optometrists are independent primary health care providers representing the front line of vision health. They can work in settings such as clinics, hospitals, community health centres, research, teaching, administration, or private practice.
An optometry career can offer routine or flexible working hours, along with a good income, and the option to own your own business. Several factors influence income including provincial healthcare coverage, practice location, optometry school credentials, and the services provided.
To learn more about working as an optometrist, the Government of Canada Job Bank provides information about wages, job prospects, job requirements, and skills. This site is a vital research tool to explore the labour market even before you arrive in Canada.
The outlook for optometrist jobs is good. Like other healthcare professions, optometry is also facing a critical labour shortage that is forecasted until 2028. This is mainly due to the:
This bodes well for an optometrist with international qualifications. But, you still need to meet specific optometry job requirements.
If you have international qualifications, it’s important to research job requirements before you move to Canada. Careful research will give you an idea of what’s involved to continue your optometry career in Canada, and the length of time and cost to become licensed. The process can be time-consuming and costly, so you need to prepare yourself for this reality.
You can start your optometry career research using the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 31111 (NOC 2021 Version 1.0) for optometrists. The NOC provides a standard definition of the main duties that optometrists perform. You’ll also learn about the types of job titles and requirements.
Optometry is a regulated profession in Canada. Provincial and territorial regulatory bodies set the standards for entry into the profession and issue licenses to practice to those eligible. Licensing requirements include completing the Optometry Examining Board of Canada’s (OEBC) national exam and licensure by the provincial or territorial governing body.
By law, you can only practice as an optometrist in Canada, or use the title, if you have been authorized by a provincial or territorial regulatory body. Graduating from optometry school and having a degree is not enough.
Regardless of your education or experience, you must have a license to meet optometry career requirements in Canada. Credential assessment is the first of many steps before you can even apply for registration to practice optometry in any province or territory in Canada. The credential assessment process involves a fair and rigorous review of your international qualifications to ensure that they meet Canadian standards.
International graduates may be eligible to obtain a license or certificate of registration to practice in a province or territory in Canada. Optometrists educated outside of North America and who would like to practice in any Canadian province (except Quebec) must contact the Federation of Optometric Regulatory Authorities of Canada (FORAC) to have academic credentials assessed. Credential assessment results are valid for three years.
Before you can apply to FORAC for credential assessment, you must have your university education evaluated by World Education Services (WES). If your academic credentials are similar to the Doctor of Optometry program at the University of Waterloo, you can register for the Internationally Graduated Evaluating Exam.
If you plan to attend a college or university program to upgrade your skills, contact the optometry school where you plan to study. Find out what steps to take based on your optometry career goals and what credential assessment agency you should use.
Make sure to highlight your international education and skills. Try to build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore university and college options thoroughly before deciding. There are differences between optometry schools in Canada.
You might be able to get advanced standing, transfer some of your credits, and benefit from prior learning assessment options by using your international credentials and experience to gain credit or course exemptions. This way you will complete your program more quickly, without wasting money and repeating the education you already have.
Canadian employers place a high value on soft skills. These are skills and personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and career prospects. Unlike your technical or hard skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly. While your hard skills will get you an interview, most likely it’s your soft skills that will get you the job and allow you to succeed.
Soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills are important job requirements for optometrists. Patients expect you to listen to them to understand their needs and concerns. If you are working with a team, strong interpersonal skills and teamwork are a necessity. Everyone must work as a unit to effectively assess patient needs and treatment options.
For those who plan to work in private practice, strong business skills are important job requirements for optometry careers. This can include skills such as financial management, budgeting, and knowledge of Canadian insurance plans and regulations. Though not a must, upgrading your education and skills through continuing education can be vital to meet job requirements in Canada.
You may have strong technical skills, but often that is not enough to get a job or maintain it afterward. You may need more training or skills upgrading, especially regarding your communication skills and interpersonal skills.
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program.
Otherwise, you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) through school boards or settlement agencies. There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT) in Ontario.
If you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you more job opportunities.
The University of Waterloo also offers an Advanced Standing Optometry Preparatory Program (ASOPP). ASOPP provides an education pathway for individuals who have completed optometry training outside of North America and who want to obtain a license to practice in Canada. It helps internationally trained optometrists get licensed and begin practice in Canada.
The University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry and Vision Science is the only English language school to offer a Doctor of Optometry program in Canada.
A French language Doctor of Optometry is offered at the Université de Montréal.
Many immigrants pursue more education at optometry schools after arriving in Canada. Some want to continue their education to enhance their career options. For example, if you plan to work in private practice or co-own an optometry practice, additional business skills may be helpful. Learn more about higher education in Canada.
Other optometry schools offer pre-optometry degrees and diploma programs. They are:
The associations listed below provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO): The CAO is a national organization that works with ten provincial optometry associations. It is the national voice of optometry and represents the interests of 85% of s in Canada. CAO membership allows you to connect with colleagues through events, education, conferences, research, and networking.
Optometry Examining Board of Canada
Federation of Optometric Regulatory Authorities of Canada
Alberta
Alberta College of Optometrists
British Columbia
College of Optometrists of British Columbia
Manitoba
Manitoba Association of Optometrists
New Brunswick
New Brunswick Association of Optometrists (NBAO) – Board of Examiners of New Brunswick
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador College of Optometrists
Northwest Territories
Professional Licensing, Department of Health, and Social Services, Government of the Northwest Territories
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia College of Optometrists
Nunavut
Professional Licensing, Department of Health, and Social Services, Government of Nunavut
Ontario
Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island College of Optometrists
Quebec
Ordre des optométristes du Québec
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Association of Optometrists
Yukon
Professional Licensing, Department of Community Services, Government of Yukon
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
These associations provide networking events, mentoring, information sessions, professional development, and connections to job opportunities. When joining a professional immigrant network, it can help you achieve job search and long-term career success.
isans: Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia: isans helps newcomer professionals with their full economic and social integration in the province of Nova Scotia.
Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC): helps newcomers to expand their professional networks and understand the local labour market. For more information about working and living in Canada, visit our Finding a Job in Canada page. We’ll help you to achieve your goals in Canada!
The annual salary for an optometrist in Canada can range from $27,446 up to $167,858 or higher. The average annual salary is about $86,000 per year, according to the Government of Canada Job Bank.
The main factors affecting your earning potential are where you live, your experience, your specializations, and whether you own an optometry business or work for a company.
Here are the most recent Optometrist salary numbers in Canada. Salary information is not available for all provinces :
| Province | Low ($/year) | Median ($/year) | High ($/year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | 32,959 | 73,717 | 135,876 |
| Ontario | 32,724 | 86,806 | 179,461 |
| Quebec | 31,923 | 101,485 | 175,448 |
Generally, optometry job prospects are positive in several provinces. Jobs are most commonly found in larger provinces such as British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec. Good prospects can be found in cities such as Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta, and many Ontario cities. When looking for jobs, broaden your geographic area to include smaller cities and towns outside of the large urban cities.
Before you choose a city to live in, research the demand for optometrists. And, once you have identified cities with strong demand, research those cities to see if they meet your personal and practical needs.
In Canada, optometrists may work in private practices or the public healthcare system. New job openings in the sector will come mainly from opportunities that arise when practicing s retire or to a lesser degree, from employment increase.
Optometrists usually begin practice as an associate at one or more existing practices. New optometrists may even split their time between a few optometry clinics. Once established, many optometrists will purchase a practice on their own, with a partner, or with a group of partners. Some practices may even run an optical dispensary.
There are a variety of potential employers in the optometry field. Many are in the private sector. Some of the biggest optical companies in Canada are:
Job prospects for optometrists in Canada are good. So, there will be opportunities to pursue. It’s important to look for jobs in the region where you will settle. Therefore, take your time to research job requirements in that region and develop a plan for finding work.
When looking for optometry jobs, you need to understand the specific requirements of the province where you will live. Use this information to establish a job search process that works for you. There are many ways to search for optometry jobs:
Settlement agencies offer free services to help you find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters, prepare for interviews, and understand what Canadian employers are looking for. This can be very helpful since searching for an optometry job in Canada may be different than in your home country.
To find immigrant services in your area, click here.
An informational interview can help optometrist candidates learn specifics about working in the industry. An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a person who is currently working in the optometry field.
You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather use the opportunity to learn more about the profession in Canada. An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of career information. In addition to gathering information about optometry in Canada, you’ll gain the added benefit of hearing first-hand about their professional experiences.
A vital activity that can help you build your optometry career in Canada is networking. And effective networking is all about connecting with other professionals, building relationships, and sharing information. It offers many benefits that can help you to discover job leads, better understand the industry in Canada, and expand your optometry network.
In Canada, many job vacancies are found in the “hidden job market”. These are jobs that are filled even before they are advertised. Networking with practicing optometrists is a great way to learn about these jobs and give you a job search advantage.
Great places to network included optometry conferences and associations. In these settings, you’ll be surrounded by other optometrists who are likely eager to collaborate and connect with others who share a similar career path.
LinkedIn is another important networking tool. It’s helpful to connect with former colleagues and employers, search for jobs and learn about recent optometry research and industry news.
You can also join some related professional groups where you can learn more about the profession in Canada, make new contacts, and access important resources and job listings.
But remember, that you must allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight. True networking is about adding value to both parties and building and maintaining the relationship over time.
You need to have a polished resume to help you stand out from other applicants. Potential employers highly value clinical, or hands-on, experience, as well as research.
Here are some key elements that you can include on your resume:
Contact Information: Indicate how the hiring manager can contact you and include your name, city, telephone number, and email address.
Summary: Write three or four sentences that summarize your skills, and experience, and highlight what makes you an excellent candidate for the job. Customize the summary section based on the specific job requirements.
Professional Experience: List your relevant employment history and include bullet points to highlight your major accomplishments in each role. Stating accomplishments rather than listing your job responsibilities will help you to stand out among other candidates.
Where possible, quantify achievements such as the number of clients you had, treatment success rates, or patient satisfaction scores. List any volunteer work, internships, work placements or residencies that directly relate to the job that you are applying for. This important experience can illustrate your skills, experience, and knowledge.
Place any research experience such as glaucoma analysis on your resume. Research details will show employers that you have inquiry skills that can contribute to new processes and improved patient care.
Education and Professional Development: List the school(s) that you attended and include the major, and years attended. Include voluntary workshops or supplemental classes that are directly related to optometry.
Optometry Skills: List your technical skills (i.e., diagnostic testing, using specialized instruments and equipment) as well as your soft skills (i.e., patient counselling, strategic thinking, leadership). Review the optometry job requirements and skills found in the job posting and list the skills that you have.
Professional Licenses and Certifications: Identify current licenses and certifications.
When you reach the interview stage of the selection process, you need to prepare well for your optometry job interview. Your interview is your chance to show your potential employer that you have the right personality, qualifications, experience and proven track record for the role.
The hiring manager will ask you many questions. Some will be standard questions that you can expect to answer. But other questions may be unexpected. However, the more you prepare, the more confidence you will convey. So, prepare to answer questions related to the core competencies, skills, and job requirements.
Research your prospective employer before the interview. Go to their website to get general information about the size of the practice, the technical sophistication of the practice, specializations, and other details. Ask other optometrists in the community about the reputation, strengths, and weaknesses of the practice.
Some common interview questions that you can prepare to answer: