Did you know that engineering jobs are some of the highest-paying careers in Canada? According to recent statistics, the demand for skilled engineers continues to rise across various sectors. But with so many specializations, it’s often a challenge to know which of the top high-paying engineering jobs in Canada you should consider. In this article, I will carefully explore the top 10 high paying engineering jobs in Canada, and provide all the details you need. Whether you’re starting your career or considering a shift, this guide will help you navigate the path to a successful and lucrative engineering career.
Top 10 High Paying In-demand Engineering Jobs in Canada
There are several high paying engineering jobs in Canada, with great career opportunities. Here are the top 10 high paying engineering jobs that canada needs:
1. Software Engineer
Job Role:
Software engineers are among the top demanding jobs in Canada. As a software engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications and systems. A software engineer may work in various fields, such as mobile app development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, or game development. Their tasks often include collaborating with other developers and product teams to implement new features, fix bugs, and ensure the software runs smoothly across different platforms.
Demand in the Job Market:
As one of the top jobs in Canada, there is a high demand for this skill in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal as these cities are fast becoming tech hubs. With many startups and established companies relying on innovative software solutions, there is a constant need for skilled software engineers. This demand is also fueled by the global digital transformation, where every industry is increasingly relying on custom-built software.
Average Salary:
The average salary for a software engineer in Canada ranges between $75,000 to $120,000 per year.
Requirements:
To become a software engineer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Advanced knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, and C++, along with experience in software design, system architecture, and problem-solving, is crucial. Many employers also value certifications in cloud technologies, cybersecurity, or database management.
What to Study:
For this role, pursuing a degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering is essential as these are among the best courses in Canada for jobs. Courses in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, and system design will provide a strong foundation. Additionally, gaining experience through internships, personal projects, or contributing to open-source projects can enhance employability and technical skills.
2. Civil Engineer
Job Role:
Civil engineering is also among the top demanding jobs in Canada. These engineers are responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, water systems, and sewage treatment plants. They ensure that the structures are safe, sustainable, and meet all regulatory standards. Civil engineers also handle budgeting, scheduling, and environmental concerns associated with large projects. They often work alongside architects, construction managers, and environmental engineers to bring designs to life, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with laws.
Demand in the Job Market:
With Canada’s ongoing urbanization and infrastructure renewal projects, civil engineering is definitely a job that Canada needs. Major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary are experiencing rapid growth, increasing the need for new buildings, transportation networks, and environmental management solutions. Additionally, infrastructure improvements and maintenance in older cities create job opportunities for civil engineers, making it part of the high paying engineering jobs in Canada.
Average Salary:
Civil engineers earn an average salary between $60,000 and $110,000 annually.
Requirements:
To pursue a career in civil engineering, you need a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, and most provinces require licensure as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.). Strong analytical, design, and communication skills are essential, along with an understanding of construction processes, project management, and environmental laws.
What to Study:
A degree in Civil Engineering includes subjects like structural analysis, materials science, fluid mechanics, geotechnical engineering, and environmental systems. You will also gain hands-on experience through internships and collaborative projects. Advanced studies or certifications in specific areas like transportation or water resources can help in specialized roles.
3. Electrical Engineer
Job Role:
Electrical engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems and equipment used in industries like power generation, telecommunications, consumer electronics, and robotics. They work on everything from designing electrical circuits to ensuring that power generation and distribution systems are safe, efficient, and reliable.
Demand in the Job Market:
The demand for electrical engineers is high across Canada, making it one of the most lucrative jobs that Canada needs at the moment, particularly in industries such as energy, automation, telecommunications, and manufacturing. With a focus on renewable energy and smart grid technologies, electrical engineers are essential for modernizing the electrical infrastructure. As Canada works toward sustainability goals, the demand for engineers specializing in renewable energy and electrical power systems continues to rise.
Average Salary:
Electrical engineers in Canada typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience and industry.
Requirements:
A degree in Electrical Engineering is required, and many positions may also require professional certification (P.Eng.). Electrical engineers need a strong understanding of circuit design, electromagnetism, and electrical systems. Analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are also essential for success.
What to Study:
Electrical Engineering programs typically include courses in circuit theory, electrical machines, power systems, electronics, and control systems. Additional training or certifications in areas like automation, power generation, or renewable energy can make candidates more competitive.
4. Mechanical Engineer
Job Role:
Mechanical engineering is one of the top demanding jobs in Canada. They are responsible for designing, analyzing, and manufacturing mechanical systems and devices. Mechanical engineers work in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, robotics, and manufacturing, where they apply principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, and material science to create innovative products and solutions. Their job also involves ensuring that designs are cost-effective, functional, and meet safety and regulatory standards.
Demand in the Job Market:
Mechanical engineering remains a job Canada needs, and this won’t change anytime soon due to the country’s focus on manufacturing, automation, and sustainable energy technologies. Cities with active manufacturing and tech industries, such as Ontario and Alberta, offer abundant opportunities for mechanical engineers. As industries continue to automate and optimize production, mechanical engineers are needed to develop and maintain the systems and tools that drive efficiency.
Average Salary:
Mechanical engineers in Canada earn an average salary ranging from $65,000 to $100,000 per year.
Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering is required, and a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation is often necessary for higher-level roles. Mechanical engineers should have a strong background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science. These are among the best courses in Canada for jobs.
What to Study:
Mechanical Engineering programs include courses on thermodynamics, material science, mechanical design, and fluid dynamics. Practical experience through labs, internships, and hands-on projects is essential. Additional expertise in computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing systems is highly valued.
5. Petroleum Engineer
Job Role:
Petroleum engineering is one of the high paying engineering jobs in Canada. These engineers are responsible for extracting oil and gas from beneath the earth’s surface. They design and implement drilling, well operations, and production processes, ensuring that extraction is efficient and environmentally responsible.
Demand in the Job Market:
Although global fluctuations in oil prices impact the petroleum industry, petroleum engineering is still among the top demanding jobs in Canada, particularly in Alberta, which is home to Canada’s oil sands industry. As Canada aims to balance energy production with environmental concerns, there is also increasing demand for petroleum engineers who specialize in sustainable practices and renewable energy solutions.
Average Salary:
Petroleum engineers are among the highest-paid engineers in Canada, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $160,000 annually.
Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering is required, and many positions also demand a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) license. Experience with reservoir engineering, drilling techniques, and production optimization is essential for success in this field.
What to Study:
Petroleum Engineering programs include courses on reservoir mechanics, drilling technologies, fluid dynamics, and geophysics. These are the best courses in Canada for jobs. Specialized knowledge in energy systems, environmental impact mitigation, and sustainable extraction practices is increasingly in demand.
6. Environmental Engineer
Job Role:
Environmental engineers develop solutions to mitigate the environmental impact of industrial activities. Their work spans air, water, and soil pollution control, waste management, and the design of sustainable infrastructure systems. Environmental engineers play a key role in ensuring that projects comply with environmental regulations and contribute to long-term sustainability goals.
Demand in the Job Market:
With Canada’s growing commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, the demand for environmental engineers is rising making it a part of the high paying engineering jobs in Canada. The push for clean technologies, waste reduction, and compliance with environmental regulations creates significant job opportunities. Environmental engineers are needed across various sectors, including construction, mining, energy, and government agencies.
Average Salary:
Environmental engineers earn an average salary between $55,000 and $95,000 per year.
Requirements:
A degree in Environmental Engineering or a closely related field is essential. Licensure as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) is required in most provinces. Strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of environmental regulations, and a passion for sustainability are important traits for success.
What to Study:
Environmental Engineering programs focus on topics like environmental impact assessment, water treatment, waste management, and air quality control. Graduates may also pursue certifications in environmental sustainability or renewable energy systems to enhance their qualifications.
7. Chemical Engineer
Job Role:
Chemical engineers work on processes that convert raw materials into valuable products such as chemicals, fuels, and pharmaceuticals. They design and optimize systems that involve chemical reactions, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics to ensure that manufacturing processes are efficient, cost-effective, and safe.
Demand in the Job Market:
Chemical engineering is one of the top jobs in Canada, particularly in the energy, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical industries. Their expertise in process optimization and material design makes them valuable assets in sectors focused on improving efficiency, sustainability, and innovation.
Average Salary:
Chemical engineers in Canada can expect to earn between $70,000 and $105,000 annually.
Requirements:
A degree in Chemical Engineering is required, and many positions also require licensure as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.). Knowledge of process design, materials science, and safety protocols is crucial.
What to Study:
Chemical Engineering programs include courses in thermodynamics, process control, fluid dynamics, and materials science.
8. Aerospace Engineer
Job Role:
Aerospace engineering is one of the top demanding jobs in Canada due to its specialized demand. Aerospace engineers design and build aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and defense systems. They are responsible for ensuring that these systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably, often under extreme conditions.
Demand in the Job Market:
Canada’s aerospace industry is growing, with significant demand in cities like Montreal and Vancouver. Aerospace engineers are needed in aviation, space exploration, and defense sectors. As Canada continues to invest in space technologies and advanced aerospace systems, there is increasing demand for engineers skilled in these areas.
Average Salary:
Aerospace engineers in Canada earn an average salary between $70,000 and $120,000 per year.
Requirements:
A degree in Aerospace Engineering is required. Aerospace engineers typically need a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation for most positions. Expertise in aerodynamics, materials science, and propulsion systems is essential.
What to Study:
Aerospace Engineering programs cover topics such as aerodynamics, propulsion, flight dynamics, and space systems. Practical experience through internships or research projects in the aerospace industry is highly beneficial.
9. Mining Engineer
Job Role:
Mining engineers plan and design the extraction of minerals and other resources from the earth. Their work involves assessing mineral deposits, ensuring the safety and efficiency of mining operations, and developing methods for sustainable resource extraction. Although not as popular and in demand as software engineering, mining engineering is also among the high paying engineering jobs in Canada. These engineers also work on optimizing mining techniques and technologies to improve productivity and reduce costs.
Demand in the Job Market:
Mining engineers are in demand in regions with active mining industries, such as British Columbia, Ontario, and Northern Canada, making it one of the jobs that Canada needs. As global demand for natural resources increases, the need for skilled mining engineers remains strong.
Average Salary:
Mining engineers in Canada earn an average salary between $80,000 and $130,000 per year.
Requirements:
A degree in Mining Engineering is essential, and most positions require professional licensure (P.Eng.). Specialized knowledge in geology, resource extraction, and environmental impact assessment is crucial.
What to Study:
Mining Engineering programs include courses on geology, mine design, excavation methods, and resource management.
10. Biomedical Engineer
Job Role:
Biomedical engineers design and create medical devices, equipment, and software to improve healthcare and patient outcomes. Their work spans various fields, from creating prosthetics and diagnostic devices to developing systems that monitor patients’ health, and because this job doesn’t seem popular, many people don’t know that it’s one of the top jobs in Canada. Biomedical engineers collaborate with doctors, researchers, and other engineers to create innovative solutions that address medical challenges.
Demand in the Job Market:
As healthcare technology advances and the aging population increases, biomedical engineers are in high demand.
Average Salary:
Biomedical engineers earn an average salary ranging from $65,000 to $105,000 annually.
Requirements:
A degree in biomedical engineering is required, as well as additional expertise in biology, medical technology, and regulatory standards for medical devices.
What to Study:
Biomedical Engineering programs focus on topics such as biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, medical imaging, and biomaterials.
Top 10 Highest-paying Engineering Jobs in Canada
| S/N | Job Role | Overview | Annual Salary (CAD) |
| 1 | Software Engineer | Software engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems across industries like tech, AI, and cloud computing. They are responsible for creating efficient, secure, and user-friendly software solutions. | $75,000 – $120,000 |
| 2 | Civil Engineer | Civil engineers design and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. They ensure the safety, sustainability, and compliance of these projects with regulations. | $60,000 – $110,000 |
| 3 | Electrical Engineer | Electrical engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems and equipment used in energy, telecommunications, and automation sectors. They work on ensuring that these systems are safe, efficient, and functional. | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| 4 | Mechanical Engineer | Mechanical engineers design and manufacture mechanical systems and devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They work across industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, applying principles of mechanics and thermodynamics.. | $65,000 – $100,000 |
| 5 | Petroleum Engineer | Petroleum engineers focus on the extraction of oil and gas. They design drilling methods, optimize production processes, and ensure that resources are extracted in an efficient and environmentally responsible manner. | $90,000 – $160,000 |
| 6 | Environmental Engineer | Environmental engineers develop solutions for environmental challenges like pollution control, waste management, and sustainable infrastructure. They work to protect natural resources while ensuring compliance with environmental laws. | $55,000 – $95,000 |
| 7 | Chemical Engineer | Chemical engineers design processes that convert raw materials into valuable products like chemicals, fuels, and pharmaceuticals. They ensure that production is efficient, safe, and environmentally sustainable. | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 8 | Aerospace Engineer | Aerospace engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems. They focus on improving performance, safety, and efficiency in industries such as aviation, space exploration, and defense. | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| 9 | Mining Engineer | Mining engineers plan and manage the extraction of minerals, ensuring that mining operations are safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible. They oversee the design of mining processes and manage resources. | $80,000 – $135,000 |
| 10 | Biomedical Engineer | Biomedical engineers design medical devices, equipment, and healthcare technologies that improve patient care and outcomes. They work on developing innovative solutions for the medical field, from prosthetics to diagnostic tools. | $65,000 – $105,000 |
Best Courses in Canada For High-Paying Engineering Jobs
Canada offers a wide range of engineering programs that provide the foundation for high-paying and in-demand careers. Whether you’re interested in software development, infrastructure, or energy sectors, here are some of the best courses to get high paying engineering jobs in Canada:
- Computer Science/Software Engineering: As the tech industry continues to grow, courses in Computer Science and Software Engineering are highly valuable. Top universities like the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia offer cutting-edge programs that teach software development, AI, and data analysis, preparing graduates for high-paying roles in tech.
- Civil Engineering: Civil engineers are essential in designing and overseeing large-scale infrastructure projects. Courses in Civil Engineering, offered at institutions like McGill University and the University of Alberta, cover topics like structural design, materials science, and environmental engineering, all of which are crucial in Canada’s growing urban centers.
- Electrical Engineering: Universities such as the University of Waterloo offer strong Electrical Engineering programs, focusing on areas like electronics, telecommunications, and power systems. Graduates are well-equipped to work in sectors like energy, tech, and automation, where demand for electrical engineers is consistently high.
- Petroleum Engineering: Given Canada’s rich natural resources, programs like Petroleum Engineering at the University of Calgary prepare students for roles in oil, gas, and energy sectors, offering some of the highest salaries in the engineering field.
Best Ways to Study and Work in Canada
Studying and working in Canada offers you a unique opportunity to gain a world-class education while gaining valuable work experience. Here are some of the best ways for you to study and work in Canada:
- Choose the Right Educational Program: First, you should research Canadian universities and colleges that offer programs in your field of interest. Ensure that the institution is designated by the Canadian government for international students, which is essential for obtaining a study permit. Popular programs include engineering, business, healthcare, and computer science.
- Apply for a Study Permit: Once you are accepted into a Canadian institution, you must apply for a study permit. This permit allows you to study full-time and, in many cases, work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks.
- Explore Co-op Programs: Many Canadian universities and colleges offer co-op programs, which allow students to gain hands-on work experience related to their field of study. These programs not only enhance your education but also make you more competitive in the job market.
- Work Post-Graduation: After completing your studies, Canada offers Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) that allow international graduates to work full-time in the country. This experience can be crucial in securing permanent residency through pathways like the Express Entry system.
By combining education with work experience, you can create a solid foundation for a successful career in Canada.
Related Articles:
Conclusion
Canada offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring engineers, with high-paying, in-demand job roles across various sectors. By pursuing the right educational programs and obtaining relevant work experience, you can set yourself up for high paying engineering jobs in Canada. Whether you’re interested in software, civil, or petroleum engineering, Canada’s top courses and work programs will guide you towards a fulfilling career. To take the next step in your journey, visit our services page at IES Portal to connect with experts who can help you with your study and work plans in Canada.
References:
- Government of Canada: Study in Canada
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): How to Apply for a Study Permit
- Government of Canada: Post-Graduation Work Permit
- Canada.ca: Engineering Careers in Canada
DISCLAIMER: Please note that the information provided on the IES Portal website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, but immigration laws and regulations may change. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the complete reliability or accuracy of the information presented. The content on our website is not legal or immigration advice and should be used at your own risk. We strongly advise consulting with licensed professionals before making any decisions based on the information found here. Additionally, we do not endorse any third-party organisations, services, or products mentioned on this site unless explicitly stated otherwise. By using our website, you agree to our disclaimer and its terms.