Does Canada Need STEM Engineers For 2024?

Last Updated On : December 27 , 2024

STEM Engineers hoping to start their careers in Canada can get priority for becoming a permanent resident by having Canadian Work Experience. Professionals in engineering disciplines would find great value in the nation based on its varied economy, infrastructure investment, and emphasis on innovation. 

This article will review the steps for engineer immigration to Canada, routes like Express Entry for engineers, and how you might land a job in the Canadian workforce.

Before going further, we are describing which engineering STEM occupations are highly in-demand in Canada, which can rank your express entry profile better than others in the express entry pool.

What Engineering STEM Occupations Are in Demand in Canada?

Canada’s demand for engineers spans multiple fields. Below are some of the top specializations:

Civil Engineers Demand in Canada | NOC Code 21300

As a civil engineer in Canada you have to Plan, design, and oversee construction projects, including roads, buildings, and water systems.

You will handle Infrastructure projects, urban development, and environmental engineering.

Average Salary you will get: CAD 65,000 - CAD 110,000 annually.

If you are looking for best employers for Civil Engineers in Canada? Following are best employers

• Aecon Group
• SNC-Lavalin
• Canadian municipalities

Mechanical Engineers Demand in Canada | NOC Code 21301

As a mechanical engineer in Canada you have to Design and develop machinery, tools, and mechanical systems.

You will have to work in Automotive, energy, and manufacturing industries.

Average Salary you will get: CAD 60,000 - CAD 105,000 annually.

If you are looking for best employers for Civil Engineers in Canada? Following are best employers

• Bombardier
• General Electric
• Pratt & Whitney

Electrical Engineers Demand in Canada | NOC Code 21310

As an electrical engineer in Canada you have to Work on electrical systems, including power generation, electronics, and telecommunications.

You will have to work in Renewable energy projects, tech hubs, and telecommunications.

Average Salary you will get: CAD 65,000 - CAD 120,000 annually.

If you are looking for best employers for Civil Engineers in Canada? Following are best employers

• Hydro-Québec
• Bell Canada
• Siemens

Canada Credentials Recognized Steps For STEM Engineers

Recognition of your credentials is essential to work as an engineer in Canada. You don't need to apply if you have previous Canadian work experience. Here are the steps to follow:

Get Your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Report:

Submit your degree for an ECA report through authorized organizations like WES or CES. and ensure your qualifications meet Canadian standards.

Get Licenses & Certificates Required For STEM Engineers

• Apply to the provincial engineering regulatory body, such as:
• Engineers Canada
• Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO)
• Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Professional Practice Exam (PPE).

Language Proficiency:

• Demonstrate strong English or French skills through IELTS or TEF exams.

Once you get essential licences you can contact STEM Engineering communities in Canada, to become an Engineer-in-Residence (EIR) in Canada.

4 Most Popular Engineering Communities in Canada

Networking can play a vital role in securing engineering roles in Canada. Here are key groups to connect with:

Here are three additional professional engineering and geoscience regulatory organizations in Canada:

Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO)

• PEO regulates the practice of professional engineering in Ontario, issues licenses, and oversees professional standards.
• Website: www.peo.on.ca

Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia (EGBC)

• EGBC oversees the licensing and practice of engineers and geoscientists in British Columbia, ensuring public safety and professional standards.
• Website: www.egbc.ca

Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ)

• OIQ regulates the engineering profession in Quebec, managing licensing and professional conduct to uphold public trust.
• Website: www.oiq.qc.ca

Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA)

• APEGA is the regulatory body responsible for licensing and regulating the practices of engineering and geoscience in Alberta.
• It ensures that professionals meet high standards of education, experience, and ethics to safeguard public welfare.
• Services include issuing professional licenses (P.Eng. and P.Geo.), conducting practice reviews, and providing ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Website: www.apega.ca

Which Engineering Industries Will Get ITAs in STEM Express Entry Draw ?

Canada’s engineering landscape is evolving, as per the recent express entry draws in 2024, there were 4,500 ITA issued with growth in the following industries 

Aerospace Engineering

• Opportunities: Work on aircraft design, maintenance, and innovation.
• Key Roles: Aircraft maintenance engineer, aerospace design engineer.
• Top Locations: Ontario, Québec

Environmental Engineering

• Opportunities: Sustainable development, water management, and renewable energy projects.
• Top Locations: British Columbia, Alberta.

Energy Sector Engineering

• Opportunities: Oil and gas, nuclear power, and renewable energy systems.
• Top Locations: Alberta, Saskatchewan.

How STEM Engineers Can Achieve High CRS Scores

To immigrate through the Express Entry for engineers, achieving a high CRS score is critical. Below are tips to improve your score:

• Education: A Master’s degree or PhD in engineering can earn extra points.
• Work Experience: 3+ years of experience in your field boosts your score.
• Language Proficiency: Aim for CLB 9 or higher in IELTS/TEF.
• Apply for a Provincial Nomination in provinces like Ontario or British Columbia.

What Working Sectors Are Recruiting STEM Engineers in Canada?

Canada’s thriving engineering sector offers opportunities with a variety of employers:

1. Public Sector:
• Government agencies like Infrastructure Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada.
2. Private Sector Companies:
• Major firms like Aecon, Bombardier, and Pratt & Whitney.
3. Academic Institutions:
• Universities such as the University of Toronto and McGill offer research opportunities.

Which Immigration Pathways Are Available For STEM Engineers in Canada?

Several pathways exist for engineering professionals under the STEM category:

• Express Entry for engineers:
• A quick route to Permanent Residency.
• Categories include Federal Skilled Worker Program and Canadian Experience Class.
• PNP for engineering:
• Tailored streams for engineers in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
• Tech Pilot Programs:
• BC Tech Pilot focuses on in-demand engineers.
• Offers expedited application processing.

Final Thought

Canada's focus on infrastructure and innovation gives engineers great prospects. Whether your area of expertise is civil engineering, aerospace engineering in Canada, or another discipline, following the described guidelines guarantees a seamless transfer to your next job. Use pathways like Express Entry for engineers and PNP for engineering to achieve your goals. 

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