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Canada remains a top choice for Filipino immigrants seeking better career opportunities abroad. Driven by an aging population and labor shortages, specific fields nationwide urgently seek qualified immigrants to fill roles. Hence, this article explores the most in-demand jobs in Canada through 2024 for Filipino newcomers and overseas workers. Moreover, it also provides guidance, licensing requirements, average salaries, and tips to gain an employment edge as a Filipino candidate.
Canada’s Labor Shortage Creates Openings for Immigrants
An aging domestic workforce and declining birth rates underpin the accelerating workforce drought in Canada. This workforce scarcity has pushed Canada to seek solutions, with a pivotal strategy of welcoming over 1.5 million new immigrants between 2024 and 2026. Moreover, this deliberate influx addresses the existing labor gap and catalyzes sustained economic growth.
In alignment with these objectives, comprehensive initiatives are deployed to enhance the seamless integration of skilled migrants into Canada’s workforce. Furthermore, the focus extends beyond numerical targets, emphasizing the importance of optimizing the contribution of immigrants to the nation’s workforce.
Top 10 In-Demand Jobs in Canada for Filipinos
Based on high demand relative to domestic supply, here are the top 10 in-demand jobs in Canada for Filipino immigrants in 2024:
1. Registered Nurses
With over 23,000 openings nationwide, registered nurses rank #2 on Canada’s critical occupation list. Moreover, in-demand specializations include ICU, pediatric, geriatric, and surgical nurses. So, an aging population demanding more healthcare drives soaring demand.
However, restrictive provincial licensure and immigration rules often deter overseas nurses. Still, opportunities abound for those willing to upgrade skills, re-specialize, and meet licensing mandates.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: CAD 73,202 per year
• Must pass the NCLEX-RN exam for provincial registration
2. Accountants
Accounting and financial operations job growth will exceed the national average over the next decade. Hence, this steady demand holds exciting prospects for qualified Filipino chartered accountants and CPAs.
Becoming designated under a provincial body like CPA Ontario provides an edge for securing stable employment. Thus, public practice and corporate accounting roles remain plentiful.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: CAD 81,010 per year
• Helpful Credentials: CPA, CMA, CGA
3. Software Developers
With over 69,000 tech job vacancies in Canada currently, skilled Filipino developers and programmers are highly in demand. Moreover, those proficient in programming languages used in machine learning are particularly valued. In addition, technology hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa offer thriving tech ecosystems. Furthermore, tech positions offer flexible remote options and also open doors countrywide.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: CAD 85,619 per year
• In-demand Skills: AI, machine learning, cloud computing
4. Civil Engineers
Major infrastructure projects across Canada signal long-term solid prospects for certified civil engineers. Given looming domestic talent shortfalls, Filipinos trained in structural, geotechnical, transportation, and construction engineering are assets.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: CAD 80,500 per year
• Professional License Required
5. Industrial Electricians
With an aging workforce, industrial electricians face ballooning demand from power infrastructure to mining operations nationwide. Thus, Filipino journeypersons certified by the Red Seal program slot seamlessly into well-paid apprenticeship, maintenance, and construction roles.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: CAD 100,000+ per year
• Red Seal Certification Required
6. Industrial Mechanics
Likewise, a wave of retiring mechanics is causing a hiring squeeze across machinery repair and industrial production applications. So, skilled Filipino immigrants with Blue Seal accreditation plug talent gaps as technical advisors, hydraulics specialists, or millwrights.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: $73,000 per year
• Compulsory Blue Seal Certification
7. Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians
One of the most in-demand jobs in Canada involves operating complex extraction equipment, such as bore machines or heavy haulers. Moreover, these operators are crucial for meeting resource production targets. Hence, experienced Filipinos with accredited prior learning can transition smoothly into Canada’s lucrative mining, oil, and gas sectors.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: $85,000+ per year
• Prior Work Experience Required
8. Masons
The increasing construction activity in residential and commercial sectors drives in-demand jobs in Canada for skilled bricklayers and masons. Hence, Filipinos with Red Seal status seamlessly fill persistent shortages for contractors seeking trustworthy on-site crew.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: $50,000 per year
• Must have Red Seal Certificate
9. Welders
Professionals adept in applications like gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and flux core arc welding (FCAW) attain versatile “journeyperson” status. Moreover, their mastery ensures they contribute significantly to heavy industries, supplying a robust pool of qualified talent.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: $60,000 per year
• Require Red Seal Journeyperson Ticket
10. Plumbers
Canada’s latest green building codes emphasize the prioritization of efficient plumbing systems. Hence, certified plumbers and pipefitters are increasingly sought-after nationwide to fulfill growing service and installation demand.
Key Details:
• Average Salary: $55,000 per year
• Necessary Red Seal Certification
Tips for Gaining an Edge as a Filipino Immigrant
Beyond holding technical skills and credentials in these priority occupations, what else can give Filipinos an advantage when seeking in-demand jobs in Canada by 2024?
Enhance Language Ability
Having strong English or French language proficiency facilitates integration into Canadian workplaces. So, consider enrolling in advanced language courses to refine bilingual communication before immigrating. Moreover, focus on building vocabulary, improving accuracy, and gaining fluency in conversational and industry-specific terminology.
Attain Licensure Before Arriving
Getting accredited professional credentials recognized in Canada while still in the Philippines saves significant hassle later. Thus, research licensing requirements and proactively contact regulatory bodies before immigrating to transfer licenses or permits.
Network Early
Building an early network within your industry provides enormous advantages when job hunting. Hence, you can attend virtual career fairs, join niche professional associations, and connect with companies that hire foreign workers. Additionally, use these channels to make contacts and learn about opportunities.
Consider Regional Options
Look beyond just Canada’s most significant urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver. Moreover, some provincial or regional areas with steeper talent shortages may sponsor work visas to incentivize your relocation. So, research labor demands across cities and towns.
Research Labor Trends
Follow expert occupational forecasts and policy changes to detect the job categories slated for the highest growth. In addition, position yourself strategically by specializing in these high-demand fields. Furthermore, continually expand your skill set to align with Canada’s shifting talent gaps.
The Future Looks Bright for Skilled Filipinos
As Canada strives to stabilize its workforce in 2024, Filipino immigrants can thrive by strategically planning around high-demand skills. Hence, various opportunities await those willing to upgrade their skills and careers, from healthcare to technology, engineering, and skilled trades. The door of Canadian opportunity is open. So, it’s time to take your talents through it!
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