The oil and gas sector continues to be a critical component of the Canadian economy, particularly in regions such as British Columbia and Alberta. The sector’s expansion is being driven by the demand for experienced personnel, despite the global transition to renewable energy. In high-demand positions such as petroleum engineers, geologists, and project managers, the oil and gas industry in Canada is currently experiencing severe skill shortages.
Furthermore, these new oil and gas skill-shortage occupations and job positions provide access to expedited immigration programs, such as the Global Talent Stream and Provincial Nominee Programs, in addition to offering high wages and excellent lifestyle options. The objective of these programs is to attract the most exceptional talent from around the world, thereby guaranteeing a resiliency workforce that can facilitate the sector’s expansion and innovation.
This article offers a comprehensive examination of the Canadian oil and gas sector, with a particular emphasis on the work visa options available to qualified workers who wish to commence their careers in Canada. Additionally, it addresses job opportunities, worker shortages, salaries, qualifications, and the most prominent employers.
Check Also: Visa Sponsorship Production Worker Jobs in Canada
Top 10 Oil and Gas Sector Jobs in Canada
The Canadian oil and gas industry is currently experiencing the most severe shortages in the following professions:
1. Petroleum Engineers
- CAD 100,000–$180,000 is the average salary.
- A Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation may be required for certain positions, in addition to a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering.
2. Geologists
- The average salary ranges from CAD 80,000 to $160,000.
- Prerequisites: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in geology.
3. Mechanical Engineers
- The average salary ranges from CAD 75,000 to $140,000.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering; professional engineer (P.Eng.) designation is preferred.
4. Electrical Technicians
- The average salary ranges from CAD 60,000 to $110,000.
- Needs: a technical diploma or certificate in electrical technology.
5. Welders
- Average Salary: CAD 50,000–$95,000
- Qualifications: apprenticeship instruction or welding technical diploma.
6. Drilling Rig Operators
- Average Salary: CAD 70,000–$120,000
- High school graduation is a prerequisite; other training courses or certificates can be needed.
7. Project Managers
- Salary: CAD 100,000–$200,000 on average
- Certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP) is advantageous, and a bachelor’s degree in business or engineering is mandatory.
8. Safety Advisors
- The average salary ranges from CAD 70,000 to $130,000.
- Certification as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) is frequently required, in addition to a bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety.
9. IT Specialists with Oil and Gas Experience
- The average salary ranges from CAD 80,000 to $150,000.
- A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a comparable field is necessary.
10. Heavy Equipment Operators
- Average Salary: CAD 60,000–$100,000
- A high school diploma and the requisite certifications to operate heavy equipment are prerequisites.
Benefits of Oil and Gas Sector Jobs in Canada
- High Earning Potential: The oil and gas sector frequently offers lucrative employment opportunities as a result of the specialized skills that are necessary. The salaries of positions such as engineers, geologists, drill operators, and technicians can be substantial, and they may also include generous bonuses and benefits.
- Job Security: Despite the fluctuations in oil prices, oil and gas remains a significant contributor to the economy and provides relatively stable long-term employment opportunities, making it one of Canada’s essential industries.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: The industry is recognized for offering a variety of career development opportunities. With the appropriate training and experience, employees have the opportunity to advance in the corporate hierarchy or transition into specialized technical positions.
- Skilled Workforce Demand: The oil and gas industry in Canada is continuously in need of skilled workers in a variety of fields, such as project management, health and safety, technical, and operational roles. This demand has made it simpler for individuals with the necessary qualifications to secure employment.
- Industry Benefits: A multitude of oil and gas organizations provide exceptional benefits, including retirement plans, stock options, and comprehensive health insurance. Workers frequently receive allowances for remote or offshore work.
- Training and Development: The sector allocates substantial resources to employee training and development. In order to facilitate employees’ career advancement, numerous employers provide opportunities for additional education, certifications, and skill enhancements.
- Technological Advancements: Employees in Canada’s oil and gas sector are exposed to state-of-the-art technology and innovative energy extraction practices, which improves their resumes and skills.
- Global Prospects: Numerous Canadian oil and gas companies operate internationally, providing the opportunity to work abroad, acquire global experience, and access new markets.
- Work-Life Balance: Despite the demanding nature of certain duties, certain oil and gas jobs provide a favorable work-life balance. Especially for those employed in colonies or offshore locations, shift work and remote site jobs frequently provide employees with extended periods of time off.
- Contributing to National Growth: The sense of honor and contribution to the nation’s growth that is derived from being a member of an industry that has a substantial impact on Canada’s GDP and economic development.
Top Biggest Oil and Gas Companies in Canada
Competent and qualified professionals are still being recruited through work visa programs by the ten largest oil and gas companies in Canada, as indicated below. If you intend to relocate to Canada in 2024, you may submit applications for employment at the following organizations:
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Which degree is best for oil and gas?
Petroleum Engineering is a degree that’s highly sought by oil companies, as these grads typically have solid backgrounds in both math and science. The oil industry is also hiring chemical engineers, geologists, and mechanical engineers.
-
Is oil work hard?
Working conditions on an oil rig can be demanding, with long hours and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Workers may also face risks such as falls, fires and equipment malfunctions.
-
What type of industry is gas?
Oil and natural gas are major industries in the energy market and play an influential role in the global economy as the world’s primary fuel sources. The processes and systems involved in producing and distributing oil and gas are highly complex, capital-intensive, and require state-of-the-art technology.
