Aerospace engineers in Canada are some of the most sought-after professionals in Canada. Due to labor shortages in the aerospace industry in Canada, aerospace jobs in Canada have been added to the Canadian government’s in-demand occupation list.
Using various immigration visa pathways, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows foreign aerospace engineers looking to work in aerospace engineering jobs in Canada to apply for permanent residency in Canada. From the Express Entry system to various high-skilled Canada work permits, there is no shortage of accessible pathways for prospective immigrant aerospace engineers to make their way to Canada.
Help Canada take flight and get work experience in aerospace jobs in Canada by immigrating to Canada as an Aerospace Engineer Using the Relevant Immigration Visa Pathways!
Ideal Immigration Pathways for Aerospace Engineers
If you’re a foreign aerospace engineer who wants to know which immigration visa pathways are most suitable to use to apply for Canadian immigration, take a look at the following ideal immigration programs for aerospace engineers.
Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP) is one of the ideal ways for aerospace engineers to immigrate to Canada. This program provides skilled workers with the qualifications and work experience to contribute to the Canadian economy and the opportunity to become permanent residents of Canada.
To be eligible for the FSWP, aerospace engineers must meet certain requirements, such as having a valid job offer or a year of continuous full-time paid work experience in the field.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is another advantageous immigration pathway for aerospace engineers. This program is for individuals with at least one year of work experience in Canada.
This immigration visa pathway is particularly attractive as it is open to those already living and working in Canada on a visa or work permit. If you are not currently eligible for this program, working in Canada for a year may be all you need.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) allow provinces to nominate skilled workers who meet their specific labor market needs for permanent residency in Canada.
Aerospace engineers can explore the PNP route by identifying provinces where their skills are in high demand. Each province or territory has its own eligibility criteria and selection process, so it is essential to research and understand the requirements of the specific PNP before applying.
Here are some of the most suitable PNP programs for aerospace engineering in Canada.
Atlantic High-Skilled Program
The Atlantic High-Skilled Program is an Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP), which aims to attract skilled workers to Canada’s Atlantic provinces. Aerospace engineers can consider this program an immigration pathway, as it offers a faster route to permanent residency. Applicants must have one year of management, professional or skilled job work experience along with a valid job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces:
Temporary Foreign Work Permit (TFWP)
Temporary Foreign Work Permit (TFWP) is another option for aerospace engineers to gain work experience in Canada. Engineers with a work permit can work for a specific period in the country. This experience can be valuable when applying for permanent residency through other immigration programs. It is important to note that a work permit does not grant permanent residency alone, but it can be a stepping stone toward that goal.
The best TFWP streams for aerospace jobs in Canada are:
International Mobility Program (IMP)
The International Mobility Program (IMP Canada) provides temporary work permits to certain skilled workers without a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Aerospace engineers can explore this program to gain work experience in Canada without going through the traditional immigration pathways. You must ensure the job offer and employer meet the IMP Canada eligibility criteria.
The best IMP streams for foreign aerospace engineers include:
What Do You Need to Become An Aerospace Engineer in Canada?
To become an aerospace engineer in Canada, certain certifications and qualifications are required. These certifications ensure that engineers have the knowledge and skills to excel at aerospace engineering jobs in Canada.
Bachelors, Masters or Doctoral Degrees
The primary certification needed is a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field i.e. mechanical or engineering physics, from a recognized post-secondary designated learning institution (DLIs). This degree program typically covers subjects such as:
- Aerodynamics
- Propulsion systems
- Aircraft designs
Professional Certifications
Aerospace engineer's professional certification from organizations such as the Canadian Council of Professional Engineers (CCPE) or the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC).
These certifications demonstrate that engineers have met these organizations’ professional standards and are qualified to practice aerospace engineering in Canada.
Regulatory Professional Organization Membership
Furthermore, obtaining membership to a provincial or territorial professional organization such as the Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute (CASI) or the Society of Aerospace Engineers of Canada (SAE) provides additional credibility and networking opportunities for aerospace engineers in Canada.
Why Immigrate to Canada as an Aerospace Engineer?
Canada has a lot to offer aerospace engineers, some of which include:
High Salaries
Canada offers attractive salaries for aerospace engineers, making it a lucrative destination for professionals in this field. According to Canada’s Job Bank, the average salary of an aerospace engineer in Canada ranges from 69, 282.89 CAD to 195,295.38 per year, depending on factors such as:
- Work experience
- Qualifications
- Location
This high earning potential allows aerospace engineers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and financial stability.
Work in World Leading Organizations
Canada is home to several world-leading aerospace organizations and companies such as:
They provide ample opportunities for aerospace jobs in Canada.
Working in these organizations allows aerospace engineers to be part of cutting-edge projects and collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field.
Research Incentives and Benefits
Canada encourages research and development in the aerospace sector, offering various incentives and benefits to aerospace engineers. Research grants and funding opportunities are available for engineers involved in innovative projects and technologies.
The Canadian government supports research collaborations between:
- Academia
- Industry
- Government agencies
These collaborations help create a dynamic environment for aerospace engineers to contribute to scientific advancements.
Learn more about Canada’s aerospace research grants.
Secure Employment
The aerospace industry in Canada is thriving, with a constant demand for skilled professionals. Aerospace engineers can benefit from the industry's growth and enjoy secure employment opportunities.
The Canadian aerospace sector is known for its stability and resilience, even during economic downturns. This gives aerospace engineers security and job stability, ensuring a promising career path.
Prestige
Working as an aerospace engineer in Canada brings prestige and recognition. The country's commitment to aerospace innovation and its contributions to the global aerospace industry make it a respected destination for professionals in this field.
Being part of Canada's aerospace sector allows engineers to be associated with groundbreaking advancements and contribute to the country's reputation as a leader in aerospace technology.
FAQs
Which Canadian Provinces Are Aerospace Engineers Most In-demand?
Aerospace engineers are in high demand in several Canadian provinces, but three provinces stand out as the most sought-after destinations for these professionals.
British Columbia
British Columbia is known for its thriving aerospace industry, particularly in Vancouver. The province is home to many diverse job opportunities for aerospace engineers in major companies like:
The aerospace sector in British Columbia focuses on manufacturing, research and development, and aerospace services, creating a strong demand for skilled professionals.
Quebec
Quebec is another province with a significant demand for aerospace engineers. The aerospace industry in Quebec is highly developed, with major companies like Bombardier Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney Canada operating in the province. Quebec's aerospace sector is renowned for its expertise in:
- Aircraft manufacturing
- Avionics systems
- Aerospace research and development
The major centers of aerospace engineering employment in Quebec are Montreal and Quebec City.
Ontario
Ontario also offers ample opportunities for aerospace engineers. The province is home to aerospace giants such as:
Aerospace engineers in Ontario can explore various subfields, including:
- Aircraft design
- Manufacturing
- Maintenance
Centered in the commercial and financial capital of Toronto, the presence of these industry leaders makes Ontario an attractive destination for professionals in the aerospace engineering field.
What are the Best Colleges to Study Aerospace Engineering in Canada?
The best universities for aerospace engineering in Canada have several renowned universities and colleges that offer aerospace engineering programs. These institutions provide high-quality education and equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field. Some of the best colleges to study aerospace engineering in Canada include:
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto offers a comprehensive aerospace engineering program that covers various aspects of the field, including:
- Aerodynamics
- Flight mechanics
- Aerospace structures
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia offers a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering specializing in aerospace engineering. The program focuses on:
- Aircraft design
- Propulsion systems
- Aerospace materials
McGill University
McGill University in Quebec offers a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. The program emphasizes:
- Aircraft design
- Flight dynamics
- Aerospace systems
Ryerson University
Ryerson University in Ontario provides a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. The program focuses on:
- Aircraft design
- Propulsion
- Aerospace structures