Here’s the rewritten version in English:
High-Paying Jobs in Canada
The Highest-Paying Careers in Canada [2023]
While many people strive to find high-paying jobs, securing well-paying and stable career opportunities can become a key life goal. Canada is one of the countries that offers a favorable environment for high earnings and professional growth.
What You’ll Learn in This Article
- What is the minimum hourly wage in Canada?
- The highest-paying jobs in Canada
- Working in Canada as an international student
- Post-graduation work permits
Although defining the “best job” can be subjective—depending on interests, abilities, and priorities—evaluating careers based on average salary, job growth, and future prospects can yield a list of outstanding opportunities. However, salary alone shouldn’t be the only factor considered when assessing potential careers.
Each year, thousands of international students flock to Canada, attracted by its strong economy, high living standards, and abundant job opportunities. This article explores the highest-paying jobs in Canada, giving you insights into the most lucrative career paths available.
Minimum Hourly Wage in Canada
The minimum hourly wage in Canada varies by province, meaning your location plays a significant role in determining your income potential. In 2023, the lowest minimum wage was $11.81 per hour in Saskatchewan, while Nunavut had the highest at $16 per hour.
| Province | Minimum Hourly Wage (CAD) | Minimum Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 15.50 | 33,200 |
| Quebec | 14.25 | 30,700 |
| British Columbia | 15.67 | 33,500 |
| Alberta | 15.00 | 31,200 |
| Saskatchewan | 13.85 | 28,700 |
| Manitoba | 12.00 | 24,000 |
| New Brunswick | 12.00 | 24,000 |
| Nova Scotia | 11.75 | 23,500 |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | 12.15 | 24,500 |
| Yukon | 13.65 | 28,300 |
| Nunavut | 16.25 | 33,750 |
| NWT | 15.20 | 32,240 |
It is important to note that Canada does not have a legally defined annual minimum salary for employees. Instead, the minimum wage is set as an hourly rate. Since hourly jobs may not guarantee a fixed number of hours or a consistent work schedule, there is no national minimum annual salary.
The Highest-Paying Jobs in Canada
Below, we introduce 14 of the most lucrative professions in Canada:
1. Cardiologist
Average Salary: $280,591 per year
Job Description: Cardiologists are specialized physicians who focus on the heart and cardiovascular system. They diagnose, treat, and help prevent heart diseases such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation.
Job Requirements: To become a cardiologist, you must complete a medical degree followed by a four to five-year residency specializing in cardiology. You must also be registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons in the province where you plan to practice.
2. Anesthesiologist
Average Salary: $358,908 per year
Job Description: Anesthesiologists are medical specialists and vital members of surgical teams. They administer anesthesia and ensure patient safety during surgical procedures. They also specialize in pain management.
Job Requirements: Anesthesiologists complete a medical degree followed by a five-year residency specializing in anesthesiology. Their training includes the study of the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver.
3. Psychiatrist
Average Salary: $298,065 per year
Job Description: Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in mental health and psychological disorders. They diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental, emotional, and behavioral conditions. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Job Requirements: Becoming a psychiatrist requires a medical degree and completion of a psychiatric residency program.
4. General Practitioner (GP)
Average Salary: $254,847 per year
Job Description: General practitioners diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses. They can work in family clinics, hospitals, or specialized healthcare centers.
Job Requirements: A medical degree is required, followed by a residency program where GPs can choose their preferred work setting.
5. Surgeon
Average Salary: $279,646 per year
Job Description: Surgeons perform operations to treat injuries, infections, and diseases. Their responsibilities include surgical procedures and post-operative care.
Job Requirements: Surgeons must complete a medical degree, followed by four to five years of residency, plus an additional two years of specialized surgical training.
6. Orthodontist
Average Salary: $209,373 per year
Job Description: Orthodontists specialize in treating misaligned teeth and jaw issues.
Job Requirements: A dental degree, a specialty license, and registration with the regulatory body of the province or territory where they practice.
7. Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
Average Salary: $109,196 per year
Job Description: CMOs oversee a company’s marketing strategies and initiatives. They develop campaigns to increase revenue and manage both offline and digital marketing efforts.
Job Requirements: A degree in marketing, communications, or business administration. Many CMOs also hold an MBA.
8. Software Engineering Manager
Average Salary: $143,044 per year
Job Description: Software engineering managers lead development teams to create and maintain software applications.
Job Requirements: A degree in computer science, business management, or software engineering, plus several years of management experience.
9. IT Manager
Average Salary: $117,890 per year
Job Description: IT managers oversee a company’s technology department to ensure smooth operations.
Job Requirements: A degree in computer science, engineering, or business administration.
10. Software Architect
Average Salary: $109,021 per year
Job Description: Software architects design the structure of software programs and set coding standards.
Job Requirements: A degree in computer science, engineering, or mathematics.
11. Enterprise Architect
Average Salary: $110,083 per year
Job Description: Enterprise architects manage IT networks and applications within organizations.
Job Requirements: A degree in computer science, business administration, or software engineering.
12. Pharmacist
Average Salary: $105,088 per year
Job Description: Pharmacists dispense and advise on prescription medications.
Job Requirements: A pharmacy degree and registration with the provincial regulatory body.
13. Corporate Controller
Average Salary: $103,056 per year
Job Description: Corporate controllers manage a company’s financial well-being, including budgeting and accounts.
Job Requirements: Certified accounting credentials and a degree in business, economics, or finance.
14. Data Scientist
Average Salary: $84,630 per year
Job Description: Data scientists collect and analyze large datasets to help businesses make strategic decisions.
Job Requirements: A degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field.
Working in Canada as an International Student
Steps to Find a Job
- Update Your Resume – Tailor your resume and cover letter for each job application.
- Network – Attend career fairs and industry events.
- Search Online – Use websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, and SimplyHired.
- Consider Internships & Volunteer Work – These experiences improve your job prospects.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After graduating, international students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to gain Canadian work experience. The length of the permit depends on the program duration (between 8 months and 3 years).
