Canada’s economy still heavily relies on the oil and gas sector, especially in states like British Columbia and Alberta. Global moves toward renewable energy haven’t stopped the industry from thriving, which is fueling need for qualified workers. There is a severe skills shortage in Canada’s oil and gas industry, especially for positions that are in high demand, such project managers, geologists, and petroleum engineers.
These new oil and gas skill shortage trades and jobs provide high incomes, great lifestyle options, and entry to fast-track immigration schemes such as the Provincial Nominee Program and the Global Talent Stream. These programs aim to draw top talent from throughout the world, guaranteeing a strong labor force to sustain the expansion and innovation of the sector.
An extensive summary of the Canadian oil and gas industry is given in this article, along with information on leading firms, work visa possibilities for talented professionals wishing to advance their careers in Canada, worker shortages, pay, and qualifications.
How Big is the Canadian Oil and Gas Sector and How Significant is the Worker Shortage?
Industry Size and Economic Impact: The Canadian oil and gas industry is one of the biggest in the nation as of 2024 and makes a major contribution to GDP. Growth-promoting initiatives such as the Trans Mountain Expansion and the Coastal GasLink support midstream (transportation and storage) as well as upstream (exploration and production) activity.
Workforce and Labor Shortage: Thousands of people in a variety of fields, including operations and engineering, are employed in this area. Nonetheless, there is a severe labor shortage facing the sector. The main causes of this include an aging labor force, retirements (often called “The Great Crew Change”), and rivalry from other growing industries for talent. The crucial need for competent professionals is highlighted by reports from organizations such as the Canadian Association of Energy Contractors (CAOEC), which predicts a sustained growth in demand for specialized personnel through 2024.
Top 10 Skill Shortage Jobs in Canadian Oil and Gas Sector in 2024
The following occupations are experiencing the most acute shortages in the Canadian oil and gas sector:
1# Petroleum Engineers
- Average Salary: CAD $100,000 – $180,000
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering; some roles may require a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation.
2# Geologists
- Average Salary: CAD $80,000 – $160,000
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Geology.
3# Mechanical Engineers
- Average Salary: CAD $75,000 – $140,000
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation preferred.
4# Electrical Technicians
- Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $110,000
- Qualifications: Technical diploma or certificate in Electrical Technology.
5# Welders
- Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $95,000
- Qualifications: Apprenticeship training or technical diploma in Welding.
6# Drilling Rig Operators
- Average Salary: CAD $70,000 – $120,000
- Qualifications: High school diploma; specific training programs or certifications may be required.
7# Project Managers
- Average Salary: CAD $100,000 – $200,000
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Business; Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.
8# Safety Advisors
- Average Salary: CAD $70,000 – $130,000
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety; Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) certification often required.
9# IT Specialists with Oil and Gas Experience
- Average Salary: CAD $80,000 – $150,000
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field.
10# Heavy Equipment Operators
- Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $100,000
- Qualifications: High school diploma; relevant certifications for operating heavy machinery.
Top 10 Biggest Oil and Gas Companies to Look for Jobs in Canada
The top ten oil and gas firms in Canada are listed below, and if you’re interested in relocating here in 2024, you may apply for positions at any of these organizations as they continue to hire talented and qualified individuals through work visa programs:
- Suncor Energy: Canada’s largest integrated energy company, involved in oil sands development, refining, and marketing.
- Canadian Natural Resources Limited (CNRL): One of the largest independent crude oil and natural gas producers in the world.
- Cenovus Energy: Major integrated oil company focused on oil sands development and upgrading.
- Imperial Oil: Subsidiary of ExxonMobil, involved in all aspects of the oil and gas industry.
- Enbridge: North America’s largest energy infrastructure company, specializing in transportation and distribution.
- TC Energy: Major energy infrastructure company operating pipelines and power generation facilities.
- Pembina Pipeline Corporation: Leading transportation and midstream service provider.
- Tourmaline Oil Corp: Major Canadian natural gas producer.
- Whitecap Resources: Intermediate-sized oil and gas producer with operations in Western Canada.
- ARC Resources: Focused on responsible energy development in Western Canada.
Jobs in Canadian Oil and Gas Sector with Easy and Fast-Track Immigration Programs
In addition to great pay and fantastic lifestyle options, Canada’s thriving oil and gas industry offers a number of fast-track immigration schemes that draw top talent from throughout the globe. The following five Work Visas for Qualified Workers in the Oil and Gas Sector in 2024 will make it easy for you to relocate to Canada and work in this exciting industry:
1# Global Talent Stream (GTS)
The Global Talent Stream (GTS), a component of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), aims to speed up the recruiting process for qualified candidates. Petroleum engineers and geoscientists are classified under GTS Category B, which offers expedited processing for work permit applications, usually taking two weeks.
2# Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Each Canadian province has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) tailored to attract skilled workers. Programs like the Alberta Express Entry Stream and the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program not only address the labor shortages but also offer a direct pathway to permanent residency.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/provincial-nominees.html
3# Express Entry
The Express Entry system manages applications for skilled worker immigration through programs like the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades (FST), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Your eligibility for permanent residency invitations is determined by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, making it a streamlined process for qualified professionals.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/works.html
4# Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)
Targeted at skilled workers, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) helps employers in Atlantic Canada hire from abroad. This program is particularly beneficial for those looking to work in the oil and gas sector in this region.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/atlantic-immigration.html
5# Intra-Company Transfer (ICT)
The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program facilitates the seamless transfer of senior management and specialist knowledge workers from global businesses to Canadian operations, therefore promoting international mobility within the sector.
In 2024, the oil and gas industry in Canada will provide a plethora of chances for qualified workers. Canada is an appealing destination for talent from around the world because of its excellent level of life, competitive incomes, and many fast-track immigration processes. You may start a fulfilling career path and make a significant contribution to one of Canada’s most important businesses by being aware of the requirements, expected salaries, and available visa choices.
