In-demand Jobs in Newfoundland & Labrador (2024)

The stunning landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador aren't the only things attracting people to the province. With a booming economy and a growing need for skilled workers, Newfoundland and Labrador is a fantastic place to launch your career.

But what jobs are most in demand? Let’s explore the top job opportunities in the province, the role employers play in immigration, and how you can make Newfoundland and Labrador your new home.

Learn more about Newfoundland and Labrador.

What Are the Top 10 In-demand Jobs Newfoundland & Labrador in 2024?

Here are 10 of the most in-demand jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador for 2024.

Software Developer (NOC 21232)

Are you a tech wiz who thrives in a collaborative and fast-paced environment? Newfoundland and Labrador seeks skilled software developers to design, build, and test innovative software solutions. Your expertise could be crucial for the province's continued growth across various sectors, from developing healthcare applications to managing fisheries data. If you have a passion for technology and enjoy working on projects that can make a real difference, a career as a software developer in Newfoundland and Labrador could be the perfect fit.

Average Annual Salary: 116,770 CAD

Registered Nurses (NOC 31301)

Are you passionate about caring for others and committed to providing exceptional medical care? Registered nurses are in high demand across healthcare facilities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. With opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings, you'll play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of residents in communities across the province. The nursing profession offers a rewarding career path with the chance to make a tangible impact on people's lives.

Average Annual Salary: 72,933 CAD

Physicians (Family Medicine and Specialists) (NOC 31102)

The province seeks qualified physicians to deliver high-quality healthcare to communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. Opportunities exist for family medicine practitioners who provide comprehensive care to patients of all ages and specialists in various fields like cardiology, pediatrics, or oncology. If you're a doctor looking for a dynamic and rewarding practice where you can make a significant contribution to the healthcare system, Newfoundland and Labrador's welcoming communities and a strong focus on patient care could be the ideal environment for you.

Heavy Equipment Mechanics (NOC 72020)

If you're mechanically inclined and enjoy working with your hands, Newfoundland and Labrador has a growing demand for heavy equipment mechanics. Your skills are essential for keeping the province's infrastructure running smoothly, from maintaining the equipment used in the mining industry to ensuring construction projects stay on schedule. A career as a heavy equipment mechanic offers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment, contribute to large-scale projects, and develop a valuable skill set.

Average Annual Salary: 71,973 CAD

Cooks (NOC 63200)

Do you have a passion for creating delicious meals and a knack for working in fast-paced environments? Newfoundland and Labrador's vibrant culinary scene needs talented cooks to showcase their skills. With fresh, local ingredients readily available, you'll find opportunities in restaurants, hotels, and hospitality settings to create culinary experiences that delight residents and tourists alike. A career as a cook in Newfoundland and Labrador allows you to express your creativity, work in a dynamic environment, and contribute to the province's growing reputation for culinary excellence.

Average Annual Salary: 33,280 CAD

Delivery Truck Drivers (NOC 75201)

The backbone of the supply chain, Newfoundland and Labrador is looking for reliable and responsible delivery truck drivers. You'll play a crucial role in keeping businesses running smoothly by hauling goods across the province or making local deliveries. Individuals comfortable with long hours on the road, a sense of responsibility, and a strong safety record are well-suited for this in-demand career.

Average Annual Salary: 39,000 CAD

Construction Workers (NOC 75110)

Newfoundland and Labrador is experiencing a surge in construction projects fueled by economic growth and infrastructure development. The province needs skilled tradespeople like carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and insulators to help build and maintain essential structures. A career in the construction trades offers the opportunity to work outdoors, see tangible results from your labor, and develop a specialized skill set that is valuable across various industries.

Average Annual Salary: 41,925 CAD

Electrical Engineers (NOC 21310)

Electrical engineers are in high demand across various industries in Newfoundland and Labrador. Your expertise is crucial for the province's technological advancements, from designing electrical systems for buildings and industrial facilities to working on renewable energy projects like wind farms. If you have a strong understanding of electrical engineering principles and enjoy a challenge, a career in this field can offer a dynamic and rewarding work environment.

Average Annual Salary: 133,254 CAD

Retail Sales Associates (NOC 64100)

Do you enjoy interacting with people and providing exceptional customer service? Retail sales associates are needed in stores across Newfoundland and Labrador, playing a vital role in helping customers find the products they need and ensuring a positive shopping experience. This role offers the opportunity to develop strong communication and interpersonal skills while working in a fast-paced environment.

Average Annual Salary: 30,225 CAD

Aquaculture Workers (Farming & Management) (NOC 85102)

As the aquaculture industry flourishes in Newfoundland and Labrador, there's a growing demand for skilled workers. If you're interested in working outdoors, contributing to a sustainable food source, and have an interest in marine biology, opportunities exist in both fish farming and management roles within the aquaculture industry. A career in aquaculture allows you to be a part of a growing industry, work in beautiful natural surroundings, and contribute to the province's economic development.

Average Annual Salary: 35,100 CAD

Newfoundland & Labrador Immigration Pathways

Newfoundland and Labrador offers a welcoming environment for newcomers looking to build a life in Canada. There are several immigration programs available to help you achieve your dream of living and working in this beautiful province. Here's a breakdown of the key pathways to consider.

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP)

The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP) is a great option for skilled workers with experience in occupations in demand within the province. The NL PNP allows the provincial government to nominate individuals who meet specific criteria for permanent residence in Canada. This nomination significantly strengthens your Express Entry application or can lead to a direct application for provincial permanent residence.

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a federal program designed to address labor shortages in Atlantic Canada, including Newfoundland and Labrador. The AIP offers a streamlined immigration process for skilled workers with a job offer from a designated employer in the Atlantic region. If you secure a job offer through the AIP, you'll benefit from faster processing times for your permanent residence application.

Express Entry

Express Entry is the primary immigration system used by the Canadian federal government. This points-based system considers factors like work experience, education, language skills, and age to rank candidates in a pool. Those with the highest scores receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in Canada. A valid job offer from anywhere in Canada, including Newfoundland and Labrador, awards you additional points under Express Entry, making you a more competitive candidate.

To be eligible for Express Entry, you need to qualify under one of its three main programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program targets skilled workers with experience in occupations listed in the National Occupation Classification (NOC) and who hold a degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): This program caters to skilled tradespeople with experience in high-demand trades listed in the NOC. Applicants must have a recognized diploma or relevant job-specific training and pass a trade certification exam.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is designed for skilled workers who have already gained valuable work experience in Canada for at least one year through a valid study permit, work permit, or Working Holiday Visa.

The Start-Up Visa Program

The Start-Up Visa Program entices foreign entrepreneurs with a unique opportunity to gain permanent residency in Canada by establishing or acquiring a business. This program, part of a broader initiative to attract international business talent, allows successful applicants to build roots and potentially scale their innovative ventures globally.

Unlike traditional business immigration, the Start-Up Visa offers the flexibility to either launch a new company or invest in an existing one, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs with diverse business goals.

Eligibility is not automatic. To be considered, you must:

• Demonstrate that you have a qualifying business incorporated in Canada, with ownership exceeding 10%.
• Secure a letter of support from a designated organization like a venture capital fund or business incubator.
• Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French at the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5
• Prove that you have sufficient funds to immigrate to Canada

Home Care Provider Pilots

The Canadian government has implemented pilot programs to address labor shortages in the home care industry. These are the Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker Pilot. The purpose was to accelerate the immigration process of foreign caregivers to communities and families in Canada that need them the most.

The Home Child Care Provider Pilot

The Home Child Care Provider Pilot streamlines Canadian permanent residency for qualified foreign childcare workers (NOC 44100) who can provide in-home care for children, either in their own residence or the employer's. This includes occupations like babysitters, nannies, live-in caregivers, and governesses.

To be eligible, you must have experience in one of these roles, secondary school education, childcare training or experience, and CPR/First Aid certification. This program helps address childcare needs in Canada while offering a path to permanent residency for skilled childcare professionals.

By exploring these immigration programs and the in-demand jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador, you can take the first step towards a rewarding career and a new life in this beautiful Canadian province.

The Home Support Worker Pilot

The Home Support Worker Pilot streamlines Canadian permanent residency for qualified foreign caregivers (NOC 44101) who can provide in-home support to families, seniors, convalescent clients, and people with disabilities. This includes roles like home support workers, homecare providers, live-in caregivers, and personal care aides.

To be eligible, you must have experience, some secondary school education, and training in home care, often including first aid, elderly care, and care for people with disabilities. This program helps address caregiving needs in Canada while offering a pathway to permanent residency for skilled home support workers.

Temporary Options For Working in Newfoundland & Labrador

Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)

Newfoundland and Labrador's agricultural sector often requires additional workers during peak seasons. The SAWP allows foreign nationals from eligible countries to fill these temporary positions, contributing to the province's agricultural industry while gaining valuable work experience.

Citizens from the following countries can apply:

• Mexico
• Anguilla
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Barbados
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Jamaica
• Montserrat
• St. Kitts-Nevis
• St. Lucia
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Benefits of Temporary Work Visas in Newfoundland and Labrador

The benefits of temporary, seasonal work in this province include:

• Gaining Valuable Canadian Work Experience: Working in Newfoundland and Labrador allows you to build your resume with Canadian experience, making you a more competitive candidate for future job opportunities, both temporary and permanent.
• Exploring Career Opportunities: Temporary work visas provide a chance to experience different workplaces and industries within Newfoundland and Labrador, helping you refine your career path and identify your ideal fit.
• Improving Language Skills: Working and living in Canada allows you to immerse yourself in English or French, significantly improving your language proficiency, a crucial asset for permanent residency applications.
• Potential Pathway to Canadian Permanent Residency: The experience and connections gained through temporary work visas can strengthen your application for permanent residency programs in Newfoundland and Labrador in the future.

The International Mobility Program (IMP)

The International Mobility Program (IMP) is a streamlined immigration program designed to connect Canadian employers with skilled foreign workers to address specific labor shortages. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits and components of the IMP.

The IMP allows employers to bypass the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, which can be time-consuming. This facilitates quicker recruitment of foreign talent to fill critical positions. It also opens doors to a diverse pool of skilled workers from around the world, allowing employers to find the best fit for their needs.

IMP Benefits for Foreign Workers

The IMP holds many benefits for foreign nationals who wish to work in Canada. These include:

• Temporary Work Opportunities: The IMP offers temporary work permits, allowing foreign workers to gain valuable Canadian work experience and potentially explore permanent residency options.
• Visa Exemptions: For certain nationalities, the IMP provides visa exemptions, simplifying the entry process.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Work experience gained under the IMP can be beneficial for those seeking permanent residency in Canada.

IMP Programs

The IMP covers a variety of programs catering to different needs.

To be eligible for an International Mobility Program Open Work Permit, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a citizen of a country with which Canada has a trade agreement or understanding that provides for the movement of people between the countries.
• Have been offered a job in Canada by an employer who is exempt from submitting an LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada and demonstrate evidence of this eligibility (such as form IMM5802)
• Meet all the other requirements outlined by IRCC and not be inadmissible to Canada

The Role Newfoundland and Labrador Employers Play in Immigration

The skilled worker shortage in Newfoundland and Labrador has created a unique opportunity for immigrants with relevant experience and qualifications. Recognizing this, many employers in the province are actively involved in the immigration process beyond simply offering jobs. Here's how Newfoundland and Labrador employers can support your immigration journey.

Providing Letters of Employment

A strong job offer with a valid Canadian employer is crucial to both Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applications. Newfoundland and Labrador employers understand this and will often be willing to provide you with a letter of employment that strengthens your application. This letter will detail the job description, your qualifications and experience required for the role, and the offered salary and benefits package.

Streamlining the Immigration Process

Some Newfoundland and Labrador employers may have experience working with the immigration process and can guide you through the necessary steps. They may connect you with immigration consultants or provide resources to help you navigate the application procedures.

Offering Pre-Arrival Support

Relocating to a new province can be daunting. To ease the transition, some employers may offer pre-arrival support services such as helping you find accommodation, registering your children for school, or even connecting you with local cultural communities.

Promoting Job Opportunities

Many Newfoundland and Labrador employers actively advertise job openings on international job boards and platforms specifically targeting skilled immigrants. This proactive approach makes it easier for you to find opportunities that match your skills and experience.

Benefits of Working in Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador's stunning landscapes and rich culture are well known, but for foreign workers, the province offers a wealth of benefits that extend beyond the beauty of the place. Here's a closer look at the advantages of launching your career in this welcoming Canadian province.

High Demand for Skilled Workers

Newfoundland and Labrador is experiencing a significant skilled worker shortage. Your qualifications and experience are highly valued, opening doors to exciting job opportunities across various industries.

Competitive Salaries and Strong Benefits

Employers in Newfoundland and Labrador recognize the value skilled immigrants bring. You can expect competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, paid time off, and pension plans.

Fast-Tracked Career Advancement

The need for skilled workers creates a dynamic job market where you can gain valuable experience and progress quickly in your chosen field. This rapid career growth can be gratifying for ambitious individuals.

Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to other major Canadian cities, Newfoundland and Labrador offers a relatively affordable cost of living. This allows you to stretch your income further and enjoy a comfortable standard of life, including housing, transportation, and entertainment.

Welcoming and Supportive Communities

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are renowned for their warm hospitality. Newcomer communities and immigrant services organizations are available to help you settle in, integrate into the local culture, and build a support network.

Work-Life Balance and Outdoor Activities

Newfoundland and Labrador boasts a relaxed pace of life that allows for a healthy work-life balance. With its breathtaking natural beauty, the province offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, kayaking, and skiing. This creates a perfect environment for those seeking a lifestyle prioritizing career and personal well-being.

Unique Cultural Experience

Newfoundland and Labrador offers a rich cultural tapestry with a strong sense of identity. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the province's unique traditions, music, cuisine, and festivals, creating a truly enriching experience.

FAQs

Which Newfoundland and Labrador City is the Best for my Occupation?

Newfoundland and Labrador has nine major cities. You can search for your in-demand occupation on search engines like Google, job-seeking apps like Indeed, or go straight to the government or provincial websites. For example, St. John’s is the province's capital and needs delivery drivers and clerks, while Labrador City, near the border of Quebec, needs letter carriers and project managers.

How do I Find a Job in Newfoundland and Labrador?

The first thing you should find out is your NOC number so that you can search for the correct job based on your skills and experience. You can job-hunt by searching job advertising websites or the provincial website. Canada’s Job Bank is a great resource that lets you filter by location and NOC code. Consulting with your agent will also help you find exactly where to look.