Senior immigrants often face significant challenges when settling into Canada. Many struggle with language barriers, mobility issues, and feelings of isolation. They may rely heavily on their adult children who sponsored them to come to Canada, but this can lead to feelings of being taken advantage of, such as being overused for babysitting. Additionally, some may feel disconnected from their children and grandchildren as they adapt to Canadian society.
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However, there is good news. Many elderly immigrants find comfort in connecting with others who are in similar positions. They often organize events or meetings tailored to their age group or ethnic background. For instance, in Vancouver, a group of retired Russian people runs a chess club that hosts weekly tournaments. To find similar groups and programs, seniors can turn to their local ethnic newspapers or immigrant settlement agencies. These resources offer a variety of activities, ranging from outdoor outings to weekly dance classes to English lessons.
It is crucial for senior immigrants to actively engage with their community and explore all that Canada has to offer. By doing so, they can enhance their quality of life and find a sense of belonging in their new home.
Tips for senior immigrants to make the most of living in Canada:
Learn the language: Learning English or French can help senior immigrants communicate with locals, make friends, and feel more comfortable in their new home.
Get involved in the community: Joining community groups, volunteering, and attending local events can help senior immigrants meet new people and learn about Canadian culture.
Go to settlement organisations to receive free assistance in accessing services designed for seniors.
Get to know seniors from outside your ethnicity.
Go for walks in your neighbourhood and get to know the area; learn how to take public transportation or call a taxi.
Explore the city: Canada has many diverse cities and attractions. Exploring the city can help senior immigrants discover all it has to offer.
Stay active: Canada has many opportunities for seniors to stay active, such as senior centers, walking groups, and fitness classes. Staying active can help senior immigrants maintain their physical and mental health.
Stay connected with family and friends: If senior immigrants have family and friends back in their home country, staying connected with them through phone calls, video chats, and social media can help them feel less isolated.
Know their rights: It’s important for senior immigrants to know their rights and the services available to them in Canada. This includes healthcare, housing, and financial support.
Embrace Canadian culture: Embracing Canadian culture while also maintaining their own cultural identity can help senior immigrants feel more connected to their new home.
Be understanding of your children and grandchildren about their changing roles and expectations living in Canada.
Architect jobs in Canada are held in high esteem. As an internationally trained professional, continuing your architectural career is an important part of your success when you arrive in Canada. It’s vital to research employment requirements for architect jobs in Canada before you arrive to help you restart your career. At a minimum, you want to ensure that your international credentials will be recognized in Canada. Otherwise, even if your skills, experience, and expertise match the job description, you may have to take courses or write exams to validate your credentials. Plus, the more you do to prepare yourself can have a positive impact on your architect salary in Canada.
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Prepare yourself to continue your architectural career in Canada with this helpful overview.
You need to take the right steps and follow to proper channels to immigrate to Canada. Researching professional requirements can help you understand the process you must follow to work in Canada.
Before You Move to Canada to Pursue an Architect Career
There are steps that you can take before you immigrate to improve your chances of practicing architecture in Canada:
Find out the procedure to follow, costs, and time required to obtain a permit.
Ask what steps in the licensing process you can take before and after you immigrate. CACB will assess your international education against Canadian standards. Any schools that you attended must send the documents directly to the CACB.
Find out what other documents you need to bring for employment purposes, or to continue your education.
Verify what documents need to be translated. You may need to use a professional translation service in Canada.
Enroll in language classes while you are in your home country and continue them after you move to Canada. To practice the profession, you need to have advanced English or French (depending on your destination province) language competency.
Gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents while still in your home country.
Learn how the architect profession is practiced in Canada and become familiar with the procedures, laws, and legislation that govern architects in the province where you will settle.
Know common titles that employers use for architect jobs in Canada.
Research architect salaries and benefits based on your job title and experience.
What to Expect When Pursuing an Architect Career in Canada
By law, you can only practice as an architect in Canada, or use the title “architect,” if you have been licensed as a full member from the provincial or territorial regulatory body where you intend to work. However, it is not necessary to be registered or licensed to work in an architectural firm if you are working under the direction of an architect. So, there are different paths you can take to work as an architect. Being licensed will make a significant difference in your architect’s salary.
Watch now to get architecture licensing tips from BCCA-Integrating Newcomers:
Employment Outlook for Architect Jobs in Canada
Understanding current labour market conditions is required when exploring your architectural career options in Canada. You need to have a sense of the size of the industry and where the best opportunities exist within the country.
According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, more than 18,000 people work as architects in Canada. As a result of job vacancies and employment growth in this industry, there is an anticipated shortage of professionals. Between the period of 2022-2031, there is an expected shortage of 5,400 positions. New graduates and immigrants will be relied upon to fill these architect jobs. This is a great opportunity for newcomers with international architecture experience. Architect salaries are competitive, and you will have lots of opportunities to find work across the country.
Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Architect Jobs in Canada
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada’s reference for occupations. It provides job descriptions, occupational statistics, and labour market information. Check out NOC 21200 for a full list of job titles for architects.
NOC 21200 lists other job titles that employers may use for architect jobs.
The Canada Job Bank is another useful tool for learning more about your profession in Canada.
A registered architect is providing supervision during an internship.
Finding a job and starting an architect career in Canada may be different than in your home country. So you may need help to find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters, prepare for interviews, and understand what Canadian employers look for.
The employment requirements for architects in Canada include:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited school of architecture (or completion of the syllabus of studies from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada)
A three-year internship under the supervision of a registered architect
Registration examination
Registration with the provincial or territorial association of architects in the region of work
A Master’s degree or a LEED certification may be required by some employers.
Credential Recognition to Meet Architect Job Requirements in Canada
Even if you have international experience, you need to be licensed in Canada to continue your architectural career. And, part of this process is known as credential recognition. The first step is to contact the CACB to learn how your educational qualifications will be assessed. Once you submit the complete application, the assessment take about three months. After that, the appropriate provincial or territorial architect regulatory authority takes care of the next steps in the licensure process: internship and examination.
You must also:
Find a mentor and complete the Canadian Experience Record Book.
Complete a specified number of hours of work experience in specific areas to meet the experience requirement of the licensure process.
Submit your previous work experience in architecture in your country of origin for consideration.
Consider pursuing the Broadly Experienced Foreign Architects Program option to get licensed in Canada. Developed by the eleven Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities, this bilingual program streamlines the process for foreign-trained architects to become certified for licensure/registration in Canada.
Credentials Assessment Services
There are several credential assessment services in Canada including:
To find more organizations and agencies providing credential evaluation, assessment, and qualification recognition services click here.
Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Architect Job Requirements
Canadian employers place a high value on soft skills, which are personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and career prospects. Unlike your technical skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly.
Soft skills, such as leadership, good communication, abstraction, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills are important for architects. As an architect, you must have technical experience, collaboration skills to work with multiple groups, and the ability to lead groups.
If your technical skills get you an interview, most probably it is your soft skills that will get you the job and enable you to keep it afterward.
Though not a must, upgrading your education and skills through a bridging program or other educational courses and workshops may be an important part of your journey to becoming a successful architect in Canada. It will also help you increase your architect’s salary.
Education Options for Architects
Many immigrants take further education after coming to Canada. If you plan to enroll in a college or university program to upgrade your skills, contact the school that you plan to attend and find out what steps to take. As well, check to see if they want you to use a specific credential assessment agency. Using unrecognized agencies can end up costing you more money and fees.
Make sure to highlight your international education and skills. Build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore university and college options thoroughly before deciding if you need to continue your education. You might be able to get advanced standing, transfer some of your credits and benefit from prior learning assessment options to gain credit or course exemptions. This will allow you to complete your program more quickly, without wasting money and repeating the education you already have.
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) classes through school boards or settlement agencies.
There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as Enhanced Language Training (ELT) 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 employment opportunities.
Bridging Programs for Architect Careers in Canada
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. You may be eligible for one. Do some research to find a program that’s suitable for you.
This 14-week bridge training program helps internationally educated professionals find employment in the architectural field. Program components include architectural academic training, Enhanced Language Training (ELT), Canadian Workplace Essentials (CWE), employment services, mentoring, and internship placements.
This 15-week bridging program is for internationally trained professionals with education and experience in engineering, architecture, or related professions. Participants of the program get training that helps them gain advanced concepts and skills in integrated solutions for the energy efficiency, green building, and renewable energy sector: The program includes Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT), Canadian workplace culture, career planning, job search, and mentorship opportunities.
Architect Schools in Canada
There are over 30 schools offering architecture programs at the college and university levels across Canada. 12 universities offer degree programs including:
There are also many colleges across the country that offer programs in:
Architectural technology
Architectural history
Industrial design
Interior design
Urban planning
Landscape architecture.
Architect Associations in Canada
The architecture industry in Canada is supported by professional associations. The following associations can provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
National Architecture Associations
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) is the national association and the voice for architecture and its practice in Canada. It represents over 4000 architects.
An architect’s salary can increase based on the level of experience, type of work they do, and location.
Architect salaries can range between $20 and $60 per hour. For a full-time position, this is an annual architect salary of $41,600 to $124,800. The average hourly rate is $36 per hour, $74,880 annually. How much you get paid can depend on a variety of factors. The most important factors that affect your architect’s salary are your level of experience, the type of work you do, and your location.
The provinces with the highest average architect salary are Newfoundland and Labrador, British Columbia, and Ontario. The lowest average salary is in Quebec.
Architect Salary in Canada
Architect salaries vary across Canada. Here are the most recent salary ranges for architects in Canada:
Best Provinces to Work in Canada as an Architect Based on Salary & Lifestyle
Generally, architecture job prospects are positive. The number of architects is expected to increase slightly over the next few years due to the anticipated growth in construction and the demand for architectural services.
Though most Canadian cities offer employment opportunities in the architectural sector, you may find more opportunities in the fast-growing provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta. When looking for jobs, broaden your geographic area to include smaller cities and towns close to your target city. For example, if you intend to work in Toronto, you might find a job opportunity in nearby Hamilton, which is less than an hour’s drive from there.
Before deciding where you want to settle in Canada, research and find out where there is a higher demand for architects to make your job search easier.
Pursuing an Architect Career in Canada
Major Employers for Architect Jobs in Canada
In Canada, architects are employed by architectural firms, private corporations, and governments. Or they may also be self-employed.
New job openings in the sector will come mainly from opportunities that arise when architects retire or change jobs and, to a lesser degree, from employment increases. Keep in mind that the type of company you work for can affect your architect’s salary and career path.
You can visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers to check for immigrant-friendly organizations that may be of interest to you. This special designation recognizes top employers for exceptional workplace diversity and inclusion programs.
Some of the top architect firms in Canada include:
ACDF Architecture
MGA – Michael Green Architecture
Diamond Schmitt
Atelier RZLBD
Hariri Pontarini Architects.
How to Find Your First Architect Job in Canada
It’s vital to research the architectural profession before you arrive in Canadaand search for jobs in the region where you plan to settle.
Job opportunities for architects continue to remain positive, however, the Canadian job market is competitive. So, you need to prepare and understand job search steps to gain employment. It’s vital to research the architectural profession before you arrive and look for jobs in the region where you plan to settle. Here are some tips to search for architect jobs in Canada:
Broaden your search and include alternative architect careers such as design and construction.
Seek out a mentor in the architectural sector – for example, a retired architect – who would give you valuable insights and advice and introduce you to their professional network.
Join business-related job-finding or networking clubs through immigrant-serving agencies.
Job hunting for architects involves more than just writing a resume. You often have to showcase your professional portfolio and work samples.
When writing your architect resume, be sure to highlight your relevant educational qualifications and specialization. There are many fields in architecture such as landscape architecture, infrastructure architecture, system architecture, etc. and each of the different types has its own specifications in terms of job responsibilities and educational qualifications. Therefore, when writing your resume, be sure to tailor it to the job profile of the position that you apply for.
Consider these tips when looking for architect jobs in Canada so that you can easily create an impressive resume package.
Targeted and Personalized
You must leverage your social and professional networks. In your cover letter, be sure to mention any contacts you have within the organization or the names of professors or consultants who have referred you.
Objective
In this part, avoid writing that your goal is to “gain meaningful employment in the field of architecture”. You might as well simply say that your goal is to get a job. Instead, consider writing something like your goal is to “advance beyond your current position and earn the respect of your peers”. See how much more information someone can infer about you just by this minor change?
Your Role in Projects
Work experience in terms of jobs or individual projects plays a crucial role when applying for a position.
Mention the complete list of your job history specifying relevant responsibilities and activities performed. Describe all the projects you have handled individually or under supervision.
Be specific about your project involvements and your role as a team member. Give a brief description of the project, including name/location/scale, and deliverables you produced or to which you contributed.
If you wish to add more power to your resume, you can add photographs of your projects. This will help potential employers review your resume more effectively.
Resume Design: Simple and Clean
Be aware of font size and spacing, making sure the text is easily legible. Take cues from your favourite design publications or branding consultancy websites. They are great resources for examples of clear and concise messaging.
Accomplishments
List all of your relevant accomplishments, award, honours, and milestones to add credibility to your resume.
Error-Free
Lastly, architecture is an aesthetic profession in which attention is paid to the grand gesture, as well as to the smallest of details. So, be rigorous in your editing and make sure to proofread more than once for grammar and spelling mistakes.
Networking is a vital activity to get job leads, advice, and information about a particular firm, and meet others to expand your network. As many job vacancies are not advertised, you must make connections with practicing architects and others in your field.
Good places to network include conferences, association events, and industry get-togethers to meet people, build relationships, and share information.
LinkedIn is another important tool for networking. It is great to reconnect with your former colleagues and employers, search for companies and jobs, and get introductions and recommendations.
You can also join some related professional groups. But remember, that you have to allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight and you need to be patient. However, finding opportunities through your network can lead to a quicker hire and even a higher starting architect salary.
An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a person who is currently working in your target field and geographic location to learn more about that particular sector. 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 your interests and your personality.
An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of architect career information. In addition to gathering information about the industry, you’ll benefit from first-hand experiences from a professional working in the field.
Interview Techniques for Architect Jobs in Canada
Whether you are looking for your first architect job in Canada, moving from your first job to your second, or seeking architect career advancement, you will need to hone your interviewing skills.
Here are a few questions that you can expect to hear that could make or break your interview. Preparing for them well may set you apart from the other candidates.
Tell Me About Yourself.
“Oh, where to begin?!” Hopefully, this isn’t your immediate thought! The key to answering this question is to be succinct; no more than a minute at most. A helpful guideline is to summarize your education and work experience and how it relates to the job you are interviewing for.
Interviewers will sometimes ask this question to make you feel at ease. However, it’s important to simply stick to the basics and move to the next question.
What Do You Know About the Company?
Before you attend the interview, you should have a general idea of the work the company has done and the areas of expertise it specializes in. Speak of a few projects that are of interest to you. Your answers will show your strong understanding of the firm and where they are heading.
Why Do You Want to Work for Us?
A good response to this question (and most other questions) will depend on how well you have researched the company and prepared. You can answer in terms of what you feel the company may need from a new employee and how you may fit into that role.
You could say that the firm is working on certain typologies that you would like to be involved with or that the company is using principles or techniques that you have a great interest in. For example, if the firm is doing innovative work with community housing, you could emphasize your interest and experience in this area.
Why Should We Hire You?
This is where you highlight your skills and talk yourself up. Be confident when answering this question. Mention your consistent performance and highlight specific aspects of your resume. Say that your skills and interests, combined with your history of achieving results, make you a valuable candidate.
What Do You Value in a Job or Company?
Think of the various facets of growth that the company may offer. Talk about how you would like to advance within the firm based on your development and contributions.
What are Important Architecture Trends that Interest You?
Prepare to discuss trends that interest you in today’s architectural climate. You might consider technological advances, policy concerns, or how the field is responding to changing industry developments.
During the job interview, show your knowledge of industry changes and how the field is responding.
With a positive outlook for Architect 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 architect career goals in Canada.
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.
Before You Move to Canada to Pursue a Midwife Career
Contact the provincial midwife regulatory body in the province where you plan to work to determine:
How your international qualifications will be assessed
How to follow the licensing process, costs, and time required to become registered
What documents to bring for employment purposes, or to continue your education? Verify if documents need to be translated. You may need to use a professional translation service in Canada.
Steps that you can take before and after you move to Canada
Check out the Canadian Midwifery Regulators Council (CMRC) website for internationally-educated midwives for information about registering as a midwife in Canada and the required competencies.
Understand how midwifery is practiced in Canada and familiarize yourself with the procedures, regulations, and legislation that govern your profession in the province where you will settle.
Improve your language skills. To practice midwifery, you require advanced English or French (depending on your destination province) language competency.
Enroll in language classes while in your home country and continue them after you move to Canada.
Gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents while still in your home country.
Explore midwife salary, compensation, and benefits options.
Know example midwife job titles that are used in Canada to help with your job search.
What to Expect When Pursuing a Midwife Career 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.
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Employment Outlook for Midwife Jobs in 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.
Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Midwife Jobs in Canada
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.
Use the NOC 31303 to understand job requirements and main duties in Canada.
Canadian Midwife CareerRequirements
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 the provinces of 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:
Credential Recognition to Meet Job Requirements 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.
Requirements for full registration differ by jurisdiction. Please check the CMRC website for the latest requirements.
To find more organizations and agencies that provide credential evaluation, assessment, and qualification recognition services click here.
Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Midwife Job Requirements in Canada
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.
Language Training in Canada
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.
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 for Midwife Careers in Canada
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 that are offered in Canada:
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.
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.
Midwife Schools in Canada
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.
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
Create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities
Provide opportunities for their members to find meaningful employment and achieve their professional goals.
Activities offered include networking events, mentoring, and professional development opportunities. You can also learn about connections to job opportunities.
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!
How Much Do Midwives Make in Canada?
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.
Midwife Salary in Canada
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:
Best Provinces to Work in Canada Based on Midwife Salary & Lifestyle
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, or the province of Ontario. 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.
Pursuing a Midwife Career in Canada
Job prospects for midwife careers can vary across Canada. It’s important to research the profession before you arrive.
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.
Top Employers for Jobs in Canada
In Canada, midwives work in collaboration 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.
How to Find Your First Midwife Job in Canada
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.
Seek out a mentor in the midwifery sector – for example, a retired midwife – who would give you valuable insights and advice and introduce you to their professional network.
Join healthcare-related job-finding or networking clubs through immigrant-serving agencies.
Attend industry job fairs and check online job boards regularly.
Some colleges or associations maintain a job bank or can suggest a commercial job site.
Consult Immigrant Settlement Agencies that Work with Midwives
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.
Resume Writing Tips for Midwife Jobs
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 that 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.
Tips to Prepare for the Job Interview
Research your prospective employer before the interview. Visit their website for information such as the size of the organization, key priorities, and other details. Ask other midwives about the reputation, strengths, and weaknesses of the practice.
Read the job description and assess how your knowledge and experience match the job requirements.
Identify why you want to work at the organization. Hiring managers commonly ask why you’re interested in working for the organization.
Common Midwife Job Interview Questions
Here are some common questions that you can expect to answer.
What do you consider your strengths to be as a midwife?
What qualities make you an effective member of the maternity team?
Describe how you stay current on midwifery best practices.
The interviewer may ask questions to gain insight into your approach to work situations and people. For example:
If a woman had a post-partum hemorrhage immediately following the delivery of a baby, what would you do? In this case, you might outline a process similar to this:
Assess the situation
Take appropriate action
Follow procedures and guidelines
Communicate appropriately
Keep proper records
Evaluate and learn from the situation.
Prepare to ask questions at the end of your interview to show that you have a genuine interest in the position. For example:
How do you support employee professional development? This question shows your commitment to learning and development and may help you decide if this is the right employer for you.
How would you describe the work culture? This can help you assess if the employer is attentive to issues such as work-life balance, team dynamics, and a positive work environment. This question indicates your interest to work in a positive environment. Hopefully, you will be seen as someone who would contribute in a positive way.
What are the most significant issues that the organization is facing? This shows that you see your role in the context of the bigger picture. You can also find out how your role may be affected by future changes or projects.
Informational Interviews for Midwife Careers
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 gain the benefit of a professional’s first-hand experiences and impressions.
Networking Advice to Help Newcomers Find a Midwife Job
It’s helpful to connect with practising midwives to discover jobs in the “hidden job market”.
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 some 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. 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.
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.
Before You Move to Canada to Pursue an Optometry Career
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:
Improve your language skills, enroll in language classes in your home country, and continue them after moving to Canada.
Gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents while still in your home country
Review optometry school options if you plan to upgrade your education.
Become familiar with how the optometry profession is practiced in Canada and the procedures, governing legislation, and regulations in the province where you plan to settle.
What to Expect When Pursuing an Optometry Career in Canada
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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.
Employment Outlook for Optometrist Jobs 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:
Demand for optometry health services as the Canadian population ages
Prevalence of age-related eye conditions
The number of practicing optometrists who are approaching retirement as well as the field’s growth.
Not enough people in Canada graduating from optometry school.
This bodes well for an optometrist with international qualifications. But, you still need to meet specific optometry job requirements.
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Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Optometrist Jobs in Canada
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.
Using the NOC: 31111
You can start your optometry career research by 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.
Use the NOC 31111 to learn about the main duties and job requirements.
Requirements for Becoming an Optometrist in Canada
Credential Recognition to Meet Optometrist Job Requirements in Canada
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.
Credential Assessment Services
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.
Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Optometry Job Requirements
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.
Skills Upgrading to Qualify for Optometrist Jobs in Canada
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.
Language Training for Optometrists 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.
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.
Bridging Programs for Optometrist Careers in Canada
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.
Optometry Schools 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.
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:
Red Deer College
Dalhousie University
University of Regina
Douglas College
University of Alberta
Thompson Rivers University
Stenberg College
University of Winnipeg
Optometry Associations in Canada
The associations listed below provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
National Optometry Associations
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.
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
Create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities
Provide opportunities for their members to find and keep a job and achieve their professional goals.
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.
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!
How Much Do Optometrists Make 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.
Optometrist Salary in Canada
Here are the most recent Optometrist salary numbers in Canada. Salary information is not available for all provinces :
Best Provinces to Work in Canada as an Optometrist Based on Salary & Lifestyle
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 the personal and practical needs of you and your family.
Pursuing an Optometrist Career in Canada
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.
Major Employers for Optometry Jobs in Canada
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:
Hakim Optical
Fyidoctors
LensCrafters
Pearl Vision,
How to Find Your First Canadian Optometrist Job
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.
Job Search Techniques for Optometrists
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:
Broaden your search and include alternative careers and sectors.
Seek out a mentor in the optometry sector who would give you valuable insights and advice and probably introduce you to their professional network.
Join healthcare job-finding or networking clubs through settlement agencies.
Check university or optometry association job banks.
Consult Immigrant Settlement Agencies
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.
Informational Interviews for Optometrists
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.
Networking to Build Your Optometry Career in Canada
Networking is an effective way to discover optometrist jobs in Canada.
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.
Writing Your Resume for Optometry Jobs in Canada
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:
What made you interested in applying for this optometry job?
What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
How would your colleagues describe you?
Describe a new optometry skill that you recently learned. How did you go about learning and practicing the skill?
Thinking about your last job, what did you most enjoy doing? What type of work would you rather avoid?
Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an unreasonable patient. How did you handle the situation?
At the end of the interview, you’ll have an opportunity to ask the interviewer any questions that you have about the optometry career opportunity. So, prepare to ask questions to show that you have a genuine interest in the position.
With a positive outlook for Optometrist 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.
Looking for chiropractor jobs in Canada? Many people prefer chiropractors in Canada and embrace alternative forms of health care and relief from physical ailments. As the field continues to grow in popularity, there is ample opportunity for internationally trained chiropractors who want to continue their careers in Canada.
Even though there is a labour shortage for chiropractors in Canada, you still need to meet specific chiropractic job requirements. Typically, employers require a minimum of two years of university undergraduate studies in science and licensing by a provincial chiropractic regulatory body, in addition to other requirements.
If you plan to work as a chiropractor in Canada, you need to plan ahead and understand job requirements and licensing requirements. Prepare to continue your chiropractic career in Canada with this helpful overview.
Before You Move to Canada to Continue Your Chiropractor Career
There are steps that you can take before you move to Canada to improve your chances of practicing chiropractic when you arrive. Following these steps can help you to prepare to work in Canada, as well as save time, money, and energy.
Improve your language skills and enroll in language classes while you’re in your home country. You will need to prove your English or French (depending on your destination province) language competency or be tested.
Take language classes and continue them after you move to Canada.
Gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents while still in your home country. It will be easier to gather them while in your home country.
Understand how chiropractic in Canada is practiced in Canada and familiarize yourself with the laws and legislation that govern your profession in the province where you will settle.
Know the name of your job in Canada and make a list of potential employers.
What to Expect When Pursuing a Chiropractor Career in Canada
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Researching your profession is a vital first step before you move to Canada. Because chiropractors belong to a regulated profession in Canada they must register as members of a provincial College of Chiropractors in the province where they plan to settle. Internationally trained chiropractors must become familiar with accreditation policies and processes set by the FCC.
Employment Outlook for Chiropractor Jobs in Canada
The job outlook for the chiropractic profession in Canada is positive. There are currently 33,700 professionals working in chiropractic. However, the Canadian Occupational Projections System projects a labour shortage for chiropractors until 2028. Many jobs are expected to open over the next few years because of Canada’s ageing population and increased public awareness of health issues. Job opportunities will also be available as more chiropractors retire. As a result, chiropractors in Canada can expect to see employment growth above the average for all occupations.
Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Chiropractor Jobs in Canada
To research the profession, you can start by reviewing the National Occupational Classification (NOC) for chiropractors, NOC 31201. Here you will get an overview of the job requirements, main duties, and example titles. This information will help you to understand what Canadian employers seek. You can search for example titles to help you when you conduct your job search.
Refer to the NOC for an overview of main duties, job requirements, and example titles for chiropractors.
In addition to using the NOC, you can also research the chiropractic profession at the Government of Canada Job Bank site. This site provides vital information about working in chiropractic jobs in Canada including wages, job prospects, skills, and general labour market information. The information on the site can help to inform your career and settlement decisions when choosing a city in Canada. Below we explain the steps you will need to take to work as a Chiropractor in Canada.
How to Become a Registered Chiropractor in Canada
There are several ways to begin your journey to becoming a registered chiropractor in Canada. To begin, foreign-trained chiropractors should contact the relevant provincial or territorial regulatory body and get information about assessment and licensing procedures.
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This is essential because employers require a minimum of two years of university undergraduate studies in science and licensing by a provincial chiropractic regulatory body. You must also complete:
A four- or five-year program at an institution accredited by the Accreditation Commission of the Council on Chiropractic
Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board exams
Provincial licensing body exams.
Credential Recognition to Meet Chiropractor Job Requirements in Canada
Some jobs in Canada belong to a regulated occupation. As the chiropractic field is a regulated profession in Canada, you can only call yourself a chiropractor and practice the profession if you are licensed by a regulatory body. As a result, internationally trained chiropractors must have their foreign licenses and certificates recognised. This process is known as credentials recognition.
Regardless of your international education or experience, to practice as a chiropractor you will need a license to practise in Canada. So, it’s important to become familiar with the provincial licensing process and what the chiropractic regulatory body expects of you. The regulatory body can advise you on the documents you require and assessment fees. Once you have all the information you can carefully complete your application.
The Federation of Canadian Chiropractic (FCC) is the national organization that governs the practice and assesses the academic credentials of chiropractic programs in Canada. There are also provincial and territorial regulatory bodies (links provided below). Licensure requirements may vary from one province to the other, but usually, internationally educated chiropractors must follow these registration steps:
Complete the graduation requirements from a chiropractic education program accredited or recognized through reciprocal agreement by the FCC and Council on Chiropractic Education Canada.
Submit official copies of all transcripts from an accredited chiropractic educational institution
Provide proof of Canadian citizenship, Permanent Resident Status, or Employment Authorization
Complete the application and pay the fee
Complete the following exams:
Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board (CCEB) knowledge-based exams
CCEB Clinical Competency Exams, and
CCO Legislation and Ethics Exam.
Credential Assessment Services for Chiropractors
If you plan to attend college or university to upgrade your skills, contact the school that you want to attend to find out how to apply and what credential assessment agency to use. Some schools request that you use a specific assessment service. So be sure to ask if they have a preferred service to avoid paying extra fees.
Here are some credential assessment services that a chiropractic school may recommend:
Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Chiropractor Job Requirements
In addition to accreditation, you may need to upgrade your skills through a bridging program or other courses to become become a chiropractor in Canada.
You can benefit from ongoing learning through continuing education courses, attending seminars and training conferences, and reading professional periodicals.
You may have strong practical skills, but often that is not enough to get a job and succeed. If necessary, you may need more training or skills upgrading, especially related to soft skills.
Chiropractors must possess patience, excellent oral and written communication skills, the ability to maintain precise and confidential clinical records, good observation skills, and problem-solving and analytical skills. Importantly chiropractors must be able to handle patients and empathize with them and explain things in simple terms. You also require strong business skills. Many chiropractic offices operate as small businesses. If you plan to run your own office, strong business knowledge is necessary.
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 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) 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 more job options.
Chiropractor Schools in Canada
Chiropractic colleges offer programs that allow you to specialize in specific areas.
There are two programs that offer chiropractic degrees in Canada accredited by the FCC:
So, if you plan to continue your studies in Canada, you can research your options at these chiropractic schools.
There are also a select number of specialty chiropractic colleges that offer programs that allow you to specialize in specific areas. Specialties can include pediatric, clinical sciences and diagnostic imaging, spinal stenosis, sports sciences, rehabilitation, and animal chiropractic care.
Here’s a list of the chiropractic colleges in Canada:
The following associations provide information about licensing and certification and offer professional development, education and networking opportunities.
Internationally trained chiropractors can benefit from joining immigrant networks. Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
Create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities
Provide opportunities for their members to find meaningful employment and achieve their professional goals
Immigrant networks provide activities such as networking events and mentoring. They also host information sessions, provide professional development, and facilitate connections to job opportunities. For example, isans: Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia, helps newcomer professionals with economic and social integration in the province of Nova Scotia.
How Much Do Chiropractors Make in Canada?
Chiropractor salaries in Canada vary based on many factors. Your location, the number of hours you work, how much you charge patients, and many other factors affect your income. Chiropractors make about $45 per hour. Salaries typically range between $87,750 and $125,438 according to Talent.com.
Chiropractor Job Salary in Canada
Here are the most recent Chiropractor salary numbers from the Government of Canada Job Bank. Data is not available for all provinces.
Best Locations to Find Work in Canada as a Chiropractor
You can find chiropractor jobs in Canada in almost any province or territory. The best locations to find work are in the provinces with the largest population including Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. The same is relevant at the city level. Top locations include cities such as:
Pursuing a career in chiropractic begins with having the right academic credentials based on the province where you plan to work. The following information can help you to continue your chiropractic career in Canada.
Major Employers for Chiropractic Jobs in Canada
Chiropractors in Canada usually work in private practice or clinics with other health practitioners. You can visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website to check for hospitals or healthcare centres that you may be interested in. This special designation recognizes Canada’s best employers for diversity, inclusion, and equity in the workplace.
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!
Many chiropractors have their own private practice in Canada.
How to Find Your First Canadian Chiropractor Job
The Canadian job market is competitive, so it’s necessary to understand the steps to gain employment. As well, finding a chiropractic job in Canada may be different than in your home country.
There are many ways to search for chiropractic jobs.
Broaden your search and include alternative careers.
Seek out a mentor in the chiropractic sector who could give you valuable insight and advice and introduce you to their professional network.
Join chiropractic or healthcare job-finding or networking clubs through immigrant-serving agencies.
Attend chiropractic or healthcare job fairs and regularly check online job boards.
Search job banks at chiropractic colleges or associations. Also, hospitals and other health institutions generally post vacancies on their websites.
Connect with Immigrant Settlement Agencies
Finding a chiropractic job in Canada may be different than in your home country. You may need help updating your resume, writing cover letters, and preparing for interviews to work as a chiropractor in Canada. Most settlement agencies offer job-search services that can help you find a job in Canada. To find immigrant services in Canada, click here.
When you apply for a chiropractor job you will have to submit a well-written resume. A Canadian-style resume plays an important role in getting you a job. Consider the following tips to write your resume for chiropractic jobs.
List only relevant job experiences, or which were similar, such as working as a Chiropractor for ABC Healthcare clinic, or Assistant Chiropractor with ABC Hospital.
Describe the nature of the job which you were required to do. Mention only those jobs related to the chiropractic job.
List your license and educational qualifications. Here too, mention only those qualifications, related to chiropractic, such as a Bachelor of Science in Chiropractic Medicine from ABC University.
List specific job duties and outcomes such as maintaining records of the case history of the patient, conducting a physical diagnosis, interpreting medical images like X-rays and scans, making adjustments to the spinal cord of the patient, adjusting the spinal column, conducting sports chiropractic activities, or providing advice on general health.
Prepare for Chiropractic Job Interviews in Canada
To prepare for your chiropractor job interview:
Think of interview questions and answers that are relevant to the field and position that you have applied for.
Visit specialized chiropractic forums or blogs to ask for interview help and advice.
Understand Canadian chiropractic industry trends and how they are affecting the profession.
Identify attributes/traits/abilities for chiropractors that are related to this job and how to get them.
Research the employer profile thoroughly for chiropractor vacancies to identify: the client base, the company’s value proposition, and what sets it apart. Identify how your experience and talent make you an ideal candidate for the role.
Sample Chiropractic Job Interview Questions
Below are sample interview questions that you can prepare to repond to:
Why are you interested in this role? Demonstrate that you have researched the organization and highlight why you are attracted to both the role and the organization.
What do you like the most or least about your role as a chiropractor? Be sure to emphasize the elements that you like most that align with the job description.
What is the most recent skill you have learned and how did you learn it? This is an opportunity to showcase your commitment to professional development. Indicate whether you completed additional training, wrote a research paper, or read about the skill in trade publications.
Request Information Interviews with Practicing Chiropractors
While the job outlook is positive for chiropractors in Canada, landing that next opportunity requires extra effort and outreach.
Informational interviewing can be a way to demonstrate your communication skills, research skills and time management skills.
An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a person who is currently working in the field to learn more about the industry in Canada.
You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather learn more about working as a chiropractor in Canada.
An informational interview with a contact from your network can be an excellent 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 hospitals, chiropractic practices, public health agencies, and others, as desired, that operate in your area.
Use your resources including professional organizations, LinkedIn, and other networking tools to identify organization insiders, health unit coordinators, etc.
Create 5 – 10 open-ended questions that will yield full useful information to help with your job search.
Networking Opportunities for Chiropractors
Networking is an essential tool that may give you job leads, gain information about a particular firm or industry, and meet others to expand your network. As many job vacancies are not advertised, you must make connections with practicing chiropractors and others in your field.
Good places to network are gatherings such as conferences, association luncheons, and industry get-togethers 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, search by company or jobs, and get introductions and recommendations.
You can also connect with people in the healthcare sector and join some related professional groups.
But remember, that you must allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight, and you need to be patient.
With a positive outlook for chiropractor 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.
