Working in Canada in 2025: Careers in high demand
Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students who want to build a promising career. With a forecast of 8.1 million vacancies by 2033, the Canadian labor market offers excellent opportunities for qualified professionals. This guide presents the most sought after professions in 2025, with information on salaries, requirements, and growing sectors.
Overview of the Canadian labor market
The labor market in Canada in 2025 reflects a combination of important factors that generate unique opportunities for foreign professionals. The Canadian population is aging rapidly, with a large proportion of workers nearing retirement. This creates an ongoing need for new talent in virtually every sector of the economy. In addition, the accelerated digital transformation after the pandemic continues to drive demand for professionals with technological skills.
For international students, the scenario is especially favorable. The program Public College in Canada offers the opportunity to obtain a recognized degree while familiarizing yourself with the local labor market, creating a significant competitive advantage when compared to candidates without Canadian experience.
Health: sector with the highest demand
The health sector leads with 38 occupations at risk of scarcity, driven by an aging Canadian population. The search for qualified professionals in this area will continue to grow exponentially in the coming years. Take a look at the top trending careers:
- Registered nurses: With competitive salaries and guaranteed stability, nurses are among the most sought after professionals.
- Pharmacy managers and pharmacists: They offer impressive salary ranges between $102,300 and $160,000 a year, making them an excellent option for those seeking financial security.
- Skilled Nurse Practitioners: Professionals with specialization in specific areas such as gerontology or intensive care have increasing demand and compensation packages that are even more attractive.
Technology: digital revolution at high speed
The Canadian digital economy is booming, especially in the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario, creating an unprecedented demand for technology professionals. Large cities like Toronto and Vancouver have become important technological hubs, attracting talent from around the world and offering salaries significantly above the national average.
Data scientists are among the most highly valued professionals, with average salaries exceeding $101,000 a year. Cloud architects also stand out, earning up to $190,000 annually in cities like Toronto. Other trending positions include cybersecurity managers ($120,000-$180,000) and DevOps engineers ($94,000-$103,000), evidencing the country's commitment to innovation and digital security.
Specialized trade and construction: expanding infrastructure
The specialized trade sector has 25 occupations at risk of scarcity, reflecting the ongoing need for infrastructure development across the country. Canada consistently invests in new construction, transportation, and logistics projects, creating stable opportunities for qualified professionals. Key highlights include:
- Electricians: With salaries between $32.30 and $47.40, they offer excellent compensation and the possibility of growth.
- Construction managers: Highly valued for their ability to coordinate complex projects, they receive competitive compensation.
- Truck drivers: Essential to the economy, they face significant shortages of skilled labor.
- Forklift operators and warehouse workers: With salaries between $21.60 and $27.00 per hour, they represent an affordable gateway to the Canadian labor market.
Administration and finance: the heart of business
The administrative and financial sector remains fundamental to the operation of companies of all sizes in Canada. The search for qualified professionals in these areas reflects the need for efficient and strategic management in an increasingly complex and competitive economic scenario.
Through the program Private College in Canada - Co-op, international students can obtain the necessary qualification to enter these promising careers, combining study with practical professional experience. Learn about the main opportunities:
- Administrative assistants: With salaries between $47,000 and $59,000 annually, they offer stability and possibilities to advance a corporate career.
- Office managers: Fundamental to the daily operation of companies, they receive between $60,000 and $78,000 a year.
- Chief Financial Officers: At the top of the salary scale, they can earn between $136,300 and $263,000 annually, reflecting the high level of responsibility and expertise required.
- Financial Controllers: With salary ranges between $96,700 and $237,700, they are essential for the financial health of organizations.
Education and Social Services: Building the Future
Canada deeply values its education and social services system, considered fundamental pillars of society. With 11 occupations facing the risk of scarcity, this sector offers significant opportunities for professionals who want to make a difference in people's lives.
High school teachers remain in high demand, as do social workers and early childhood educators. Education directors and corporate trainers also appear as promising professions, with salaries ranging from $68,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on experience and qualification.
Natural resources and manufacturing: the basis of the economy
Canada has one of the largest natural resource reserves in the world, and its exploration remains fundamental to the country's economy. In parallel, the manufacturing sector is rapidly modernizing, creating new opportunities for qualified professionals.
In the area of natural resources, oil and gas supervisors and livestock workers are among the five occupations facing critical scarcity. In the manufacturing sector, eight occupations stand out, including paper machine operators and electrical assemblers, all offering competitive compensation and professional stability.
How to prepare for the Canadian market
To make the most of opportunities in Canada in 2025, it's important to prepare accordingly. The country values both formal qualification and practical experience, in addition to proficiency in English and/or French. Here are some essential recommendations:
- Invest in recognized education: Canadian diplomas are highly valued in the local market. Consider programs that offer internship or hands-on experience.
- Develop language proficiency: Fluent English is essential in most provinces, while French is valued especially in Quebec.
- Learn about the immigration system: Programs like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) prioritize candidates with skills in high demand.
- Seek experience in your area: Even internships or volunteer work can make a significant difference in your curriculum.
- Establish professional connections: Networking is highly valued in Canada and can open important doors.
Be Easy
A Be Easy offers full support for Brazilians who wish to build a promising career in Canada. Our educational exchange programs are designed to maximize your chances of success in the competitive Canadian labor market. With specialized advice from course choice to orientation for immigration processes, we are committed to turning your international dream into reality. Get in touch today and discover how we can help you achieve one of the highest-demand careers in Canada in 2025!
