How to Get the Perfect HR Job in Canada

Human Resources (HR) is a critical function in any organization, responsible for managing employees' needs and ensuring the company's compliance with employment laws and regulations. HR professionals play a crucial role in attracting, retaining, and developing a talented workforce that drives business growth.

If you're interested in pursuing a career in HR in Canada, you might wonder about the job duties, demand, and availability of HR positions. HR jobs involve managing employee relations, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, performance management, and training and development. These duties require strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

HR jobs are in demand in Canada, with many organizations seeking skilled professionals to support their workforce needs. According to the National Occupational Classification (NOC), the Tier 1 Code 11200 refers to HR Professionals, which indicates the importance and high demand for these roles in the Canadian job market.

3 Easy Steps to Finding the Perfect HR Job

3 Easy Steps to Finding the Perfect HR Job

Step 1: Choose Your Location

Knowing where you want to live and work in Canada is probably the first thing to consider when looking at Canadian immigration options as an HR professional. How? Depending on where your skills are in demand in Canada, if you apply to the right province or territory, you could substantially improve your chances of not only getting hired but also receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada.

Step 2: Choose Your Job

Finding the right position for yourself when applying from another country can be difficult. There are a lot of extra factors that could affect the outcome of your application, including:

  • Having a resume that is up to Canadian standards;
  • Having a strong and well-written cover letter;
  • Having the necessary accreditation as per National Occupational Classification (NOC) code

What is a National Occupational Code (NOC)?

Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) code indexes different jobs based on skill level and type according to Canadian standards.

Below are some NOC codes for common in-demand HR jobs in Canada:


Heading
NOC CodeJob Title
NOC 10011Human Resources Manager
NOC 11200Human Resources Professional
NOC 12202Human Resources and Recruitment Officers

Step 3: Choose Immigration Program

Canada has various immigration programs that can assist individuals in obtaining permanent residency and work permits to work in Canada's HR industry. These programs are designed to attract and retain skilled professionals from around the world, and they have specific eligibility requirements that applicants must meet.

One popular immigration program is the Express Entry system, which manages the applications of skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada permanently. A points-based system evaluates candidates based on their age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. If an individual's profile meets the eligibility requirements, they may receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

Another immigration program is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate candidates who have the skills, education, and work experience needed to work in specific occupations in their region. The PNP can also provide a path to permanent residency for individuals who meet the eligibility requirements.

Additionally, the Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a program designed to help Canadian employers fill skilled labor shortages by providing fast-track processing for work permits. This program is ideal for individuals with specialized skills and experience in the HR industry.

When choosing an immigration program, it is essential to research each program's eligibility requirements, processing times, and potential for permanent residency. It is also advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or a licensed immigration consultant to ensure that you understand the process and have the best chance of success. By choosing the right immigration program, you can open up opportunities to work in Canada's dynamic and rewarding HR industry.

Top Canadian Immigration Options for HR Managers

1. Canada's Express Entry

This is Canada’s premier immigration system, managing three programs that all offer permanent residency in Canada. As an HR manager or HR professional, you could qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class. Below are the requirements to qualify for each program:

Federal Skilled Worker Requirements for HR Managers

  • A minimum score of 67 out of 100 FSWP points
  • At least 1 year of full-time continuous work experience in the past 10 years (not compulsory)
  • Language test results in English and/or French at CLB level 7
  • Relevant educational qualification with Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if obtained outside of Canada
  • Proofs of funds to cover you and your family to settle in Canada
  • Be admissible to Canada.

Canadian Experience Class Requirements for HR Managers

  • At least 1 year of full-time continuous Canadian work experience in the past 3 years
  • Language test results in English and/or French at CLB level 7
  • Relevant educational qualification with Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) if obtained outside of Canada
  • Proofs of funds to cover you and your family to settle in Canada
  • Be admissible to Canada.

Not all of these requirements are necessary in order to qualify however they can boost your chances of success in your application. Both programs evaluate applicants based on five main factors: age, language ability, education, work experience, and ability to settle in Canada. You will be scored based on these factors and receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Your Canadian Express Entry profile will then be entered into a draw pool with other candidates. Use our CRS calculator and find out your points. 

If your score is equal to the average taken from all of the applicants in your draw pool, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada. This score is known as the CRS cut-off score which is announced every two weeks. And the best part is that your profile will remain in the draw pool for a year or until you receive an ITA!

2. Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)

Although Canada has 11 Provincial Nominee Programs, you are more likely to receive a Provincial Nomination (PN) from Manitoba if you want an HR job as they are highly in demand. A PN is a great opportunity as it is worth 600 CRS points and as most PNP draws have a CRS cut-off score of around 700 you could easily qualify for permanent residency with one in hand. The key is to select a province where HR managers are in demand, and Manitoba is one of them.

As an experienced HR manager, you could qualify for the Skilled Worker Overseas Stream under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). There are two programs you could choose:

  1. Manitoba Express Entry Pathway; and
  2. Human Capital Pathway.

The main difference between the two programs is whether or not you decide to apply through the Express Entry system or not.

You can either create an Express Entry profile and express interest in the province or apply directly to the province.

You will, however, need to have some form of established connection to the province, whether it be the support of friends or family living in Manitoba, education or temporary work experience in Manitoba, or an ITA received through a Strategic Recruitment Initiative.

3. Global Talent Stream (GTS)

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a unique immigration program designed to help Canadian employers fill skilled labor shortages quickly. This program is particularly attractive to individuals with specialized skills and experience in the HR industry. The GTS was launched in 2017 and has since become one of the most popular immigration programs in Canada.

The GTS has two streams: Category A and Category B. Category A is designed for employers referred by one of the GTS's designated partners, such as a trade association or industry group. Category B is for employers needing to hire foreign workers for highly-skilled occupations not covered under Category A.

One of the significant benefits of the GTS is the fast-track processing for work permits. Employers eligible for the GTS can have their work permits processed within two weeks, which is significantly faster than traditional work permit processing times. This fast processing time can help employers quickly fill skill shortages in their organization and avoid project delays.

For individuals with specialized skills and experience in the HR industry, the GTS can be an excellent opportunity to work in Canada's dynamic and growing HR industry. This program can provide a fast and efficient path to obtaining a work permit and starting a career in Canada. However, it's important to note that the GTS has specific eligibility requirements that applicants must meet. It is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or licensed immigration consultant to ensure that you are eligible for the program and to guide you through the application process.

Why Work in HR in Canada

Why Work in HR in Canada

If you're considering a career in human resources, Canada is an excellent place to find job opportunities. Canada is known for its high quality of life, robust economy, and welcoming immigration policies. There are several reasons why finding an HR job in Canada can be a great career move.

Firstly, HR jobs in Canada offer competitive salaries. According to Talent.com The average HR salary in Canada is $66,080 per year, which is higher than many other industries. The entry-level positions start at $48,814 per year, while the most experienced workers make up to $97,805 per year. The average salary for a human resources manager according to Indeed.ca is $79,748 per year in Canada, according to data from April 2023.

Secondly, HR is an in-demand occupation in Canada. Many companies and organizations constantly seek skilled HR professionals to manage their workforce needs. This demand for HR professionals means many job opportunities are available, making it easier to find a job that suits your skills, experience, and career goals.

Finally, Canada offers an excellent quality of life. It consistently ranks as one of the best countries to live in globally, thanks to its high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and education systems, and vibrant culture. Canada is also known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and friendly people, making it an attractive place to call home.

Provinces Where HR Managers Are Needed

According to Indeed.ca, over 6000 general HR jobs are available across Canada, and 830 managerial positions. As mentioned earlier, Manitoba is in need of HR workers, but they're not the only province.

Human resources (HR) is an essential function in every organization, and Canada is no exception. To gain insights into the HR job market in Canada, we conducted research to find out the number of HR job positions available in each province, according to Job Bank. The results are as follows:

However, according to their individual websites, there is a high demand for human resources occupations across several Canadian provinces. Human resources managers can expect good job prospects in New Brunswick, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Yukon, while British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Ontario also offer reasonable job prospects.

Immigrate to Canada as an HR Manager with CanadianVisa.org.

As a qualified and experienced HR manager looking for a job in Canada, you may know the ins and outs of applying for a job in your home country but the process and standards for applications could be different. It is important to do as much research when it comes to where your job is in demand in Canada as well as which Canadian immigration programs you qualify for. This can improve your chances of finding employment and getting permanent residency in Canada.

With all of these immigration and visa options to choose from, the process can become quite overwhelming and confusing. But it doesn't have to be. By using our accredited Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs), you will not only improve your chances of success in the visa application process, but you will get expert advice on which program is best for your specific needs. Our RCICs are highly qualified and are granted permission by the CCIC to assist you with your eligibility evaluation, review all your documents and application forms, and submit them to the Canadian government for you.

FAQs

FAQs

What Are the Typical Responsibilities of an HR Professional in Canada?

HR professionals in Canada are responsible for a range of duties, including recruitment, employee onboarding and training, compensation and benefits management, performance management, employee relations, policy development and implementation, and HR administration. They also play a critical role in ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations, such as those related to employment standards, occupational health and safety, and human rights.

What Is the Average Salary for an HR Professional in Canada?

According to recent data, on Talent.com, the average salary for an HR professional in Canada is $66,080 per year or $33.89 per hour. Entry-level positions typically start at $48,814 per year, while experienced HR professionals earn up to $97,805 per year. The average salary for a human resources manager in Canada is $79,748 per year.

What Are the Current Trends in the Canadian HR Industry?

The HR industry in Canada is constantly evolving, with several key trends emerging in recent years. One of the most significant trends is the shift towards a more strategic approach to HR, with HR professionals taking on a more strategic role in organizations and working closely with senior leaders to achieve business objectives.

Other trends include a greater focus on employee engagement and workplace culture, the use of technology to streamline HR processes and improve the employee experience, and a growing emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated many of these trends, with HR professionals playing a critical role in supporting remote work, employee well-being, and organizational resilience.