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10 Highest Paying Jobs in Canada for International Graduates

Posted 29 August 2023 Computer Science Engineering Graduate Employability Medicine Working as a Student

The Canadian job market offers high-paying opportunities across various industries, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking financial success and career growth. With its thriving economy, vibrant sectors, and commitment to innovation, Canada provides a fertile ground for skilled individuals to carve a rewarding and prosperous career path.

As Canada is a land of immigrants who are given many opportunities to share the piece of the cake, many international students prefer to study in the country to be a part of the growing economy. Although graduates with degrees earned in other countries around the world are also considered for job opportunities, having an educational background rooted in Canada gives benefits for applying to permanent residence programs, and many companies also prefer to hire graduates who are familiar with the Canadian way of life in general.

By investing in the necessary education and honing their skills, aspiring students and professionals can find their place among the highest-paying jobs in Canada during this year and in the coming times ahead. Keep reading on to find the most high-paying jobs in Canada. If you want to study in Canada for better career opportunities, book a free consultation with SI-Canada to start your application.

highest paying entry-level jobs with a bachelor's degree

Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in Canada 

1. Medical Specialist

Canada’s healthcare sector is highly advanced and demands exceptional medical specialists to cater to the needs of its diverse population. Surgeons, physicians, anesthesiologists, and radiologists are among the highest-paid professionals in the country, and the demand for medical professionals is on the rise. The journey to becoming a medical specialist requires dedication and commitment, starting with completing medical school, followed by specialized training and residencies, which, if done in Canada, can lead to better job options in the country as well as other regions of the world. 

2. Petroleum Engineer

With its abundant natural resources, Canada’s energy industry relies heavily on petroleum engineers to extract and refine oil and gas efficiently. A bachelor’s degree in the field of petroleum engineering or a related field is typically required to embark on this rewarding career path, which leads to high-paying jobs in the industry. The salaries can be even higher with a master’s education. Petroleum engineering is one of the sought-after courses in Canadian institutes, which attracts many students who are interested in being part of this industry. 

3. IT Manager

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, IT managers are pivotal in ensuring organizations maintain seamless technological operations at all levels. With the ever-increasing reliance on technology, IT managers are in high demand across various industries, from healthcare and finance to education and retail. To excel in this role, IT managers must possess relevant degrees in computer science or related fields and a diverse skill set that combines technical expertise with strong leadership and communication skills. The demand for skilled IT managers is expected to grow steadily in the coming years, making it a promising career choice for tech-savvy individuals with a passion for innovation and problem-solving.

4. Financial Manager

Financial managers play a crucial role in the financial success of an organization, as they are responsible for overseeing the financial health and operations. They also collaborate with various departments to set financial goals and objectives, ensuring that the organization operates within its budgetary constraints while maximizing profits and minimizing costs. A typical educational background for financial managers includes a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. Many financial managers also pursue advanced degrees, such as an MBA or a master’s in finance, to enhance their knowledge and career prospects.

5. Pharmacist

Pharmacists are highly skilled healthcare professionals who play a very essential role in ensuring the effective and safe use of medications. They are responsible for dispensing prescription medications, providing medication counselling to patients, and collaborating with other healthcare providers to optimize patient care. Pharmacists work in various professional settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and research institutions. To become a pharmacist, one must complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, which typically takes four years to complete after earning a bachelor’s degree. They must also pass licensing exams to practice in their respective regions. 

6. Mining Engineer

Mining engineers are professionals who specialize in the extraction and processing of minerals and ores from the earth’s crust. They play a critical role in the mining industry, overseeing the planning, design, and operation of mines to ensure safe and efficient resource extraction. They work closely with geologists, metallurgists, and other professionals to basically analyze data and make informed decisions about the best methods for extracting valuable minerals. To become a mining engineer, students need a bachelor’s degree in the field of mining engineering or a related field. Some of the positions may also require additional certifications or licenses, depending on the specific responsibilities.

7. Marketing Manager

Marketing managers are crucial players in any organization, who are responsible for creating and implementing marketing plans and strategies that promote the products or services and drive business growth. Their main objective is to identify target markets, understand customer needs, and develop effective marketing campaigns to attract and retain customers. They are skilled at utilizing various marketing channels, including digital marketing, social media, email marketing, and traditional advertising, to reach a broad audience and enhance brand visibility. A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related field is typically required for this role, and relevant work experience is often preferred.

8. Human Resources Manager

Human resources managers, also known as HR Managers or HR Directors, play a critical role in organizations by overseeing the human resources department and ensuring that the company’s workforce operates efficiently and effectively. They are basically responsible for managing the employee lifecycle, right from recruitment and onboarding to employee development and retention. One of the major responsibilities of HR Managers is to recruit and hire new employees, and another crucial aspect of their role is to handle employee relations and resolve workplace conflicts. To become an HR Manager, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field.

9. Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineers are skilled professionals who design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace-related systems. They play a crucial role in advancing aviation and space exploration by applying their engineering knowledge to create innovative and efficient solutions. One of the primary areas of focus for aerospace engineers is propulsion systems, which involve designing and improving engines that power aircraft and spacecraft. Aerospace engineers also collaborate with other engineering disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, and materials engineering, to integrate various systems seamlessly. One would generally need at least a bachelor’s degree to become an aerospace engineer, while some students also pursue advanced degrees for specialized roles. 

10. Software Developer

In today’s tech-driven world, software developers are highly sought after to create and maintain innovative applications and software solutions. These developers use expertise in programming languages, such as Java, Python, C++, or JavaScript, to write code and develop software applications. They work closely with clients, stakeholders, and other team members to understand requirements and design software solutions that meet specific needs. To become a software developer in Canada, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. However, many successful developers also come from diverse educational backgrounds and have honed their skills through self-learning and practical experience.

Highest Paying Jobs in Canada FAQ

Which are the highest-paid jobs in Canada?

Some of the highest-paying jobs in Canada are in the healthcare industry, engineering, finance and the IT industry.

What is the top 10% of salaries in Canada?

Professionals in high-demand fields, such as healthcare, information technology, engineering, finance, and management, earn the top 10% of salaries in Canada. In major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, the top 10% of earners can make annual salaries ranging from approximately $100,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on their job title and experience.

What is the best job in the world?

The concept of the “best job in the world” is very subjective and can vary depending on individual preferences, interests, and values. What one person considers the best job may not be the same for someone else. Ultimately, the best job for an individual is one that aligns with their strengths, interests, and values and allows them to find fulfilment and purpose in their work.

What’s the lowest-paying job?

The lowest-paying job can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and individual circumstances. In general, jobs that require minimal education, training, or specialized skills tend to have lower salaries and may include certain entry-level positions in the retail or hospitality industry, agricultural labourers, fast-food workers, and some administrative or clerical roles.

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