Canada is one of the main destinations for skilled workers, including mechanical engineers. The country has a high demand for engineers as it continues to build its strong economy. Therefore, Canada offers many promising opportunities for OFWs who would love to build their careers there.
If you are a mechanical engineer planning to work in Canada, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process.
How OFWs Can Work as Mechanical Engineers in Canada
1. Understand the Job Market and Requirements
Before applying, you need to research the job market and know the requirements for mechanical engineers in Canada. Employers often look for professionals with strong technical skills, experience and those that have the right certifications.
The following are the main requirements to apply as a mechanical engineer in Canada:
- A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
- Work experience in mechanical engineering.
- Proficiency in English or French (depending on the province).
- Licensing or certification from the relevant provincial engineering association.
- Familiarity with Canadian engineering standards and workplace safety regulations.
2. Get Your Credentials Assessed
Your credentials need to be assessed by Engineers Canada to ensure that your qualifications are up to par with Canadian standards. The assessment is done through the Foreign Credential Recognition Program.
Steps for Credential Assessment:
- Submit your academic and professional documents to the relevant provincial engineering regulatory body (e.g., Professional Engineers Ontario, Engineers & Geoscientists British Columbia).
- Complete any required exams or courses if your credentials do not fully match Canadian standards.
- Apply for the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) program if required.
- Gather references from previous employers to strengthen your application.
3. Gain Licensure as a Professional Engineer
To be able to practice legally as a mechanical engineer in Canada, you need to have a Professional Engineer license from the engineering regulatory body in your province.
The following is the licensing process:
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE Exam) if required.
- Gain work experience under a licensed engineer (usually four years of experience is required).
- Pass the Professional Practice Examination (PPE) covering law, ethics, and professionalism.
- Maintain continuing education credits to keep your license valid.
4. Improve Your English or French Language Skills
You need to prove that you are proficient in English or in French by taking a test. The following are the tests that you can take:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – Minimum required score depends on the province and employer.
- CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) – Another option for English testing.
- TEF Canada (Test d’Évaluation de Français) – If you plan to work in French-speaking provinces like Quebec.
To improve your language skills, consider taking online courses, joining language exchange programs, or practicing with native speakers.
5. Apply for a Work Visa or Permanent Residency
There are several ways to migrate to Canada as a mechanical engineer, either through a work visa or permanent residency.
- Express Entry System – Apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), which prioritizes skilled professionals.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Some provinces have programs for engineers to fill local labor shortages.
- Job Offer with a Work Permit – If you receive a job offer from a Canadian employer, you can apply for a work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) – If you plan to work in the Atlantic provinces, this program offers a pathway to residency.
6. Search for Engineering Jobs in Canada
Start applying for jobs through online job portals and networking platforms.
Top Job Portals:
- Job Bank Canada (https://www.jobbank.gc.ca)
- Indeed Canada (https://ca.indeed.com)
- LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com)
- Workopolis (https://www.workopolis.com)
- Glassdoor Canada (https://www.glassdoor.ca)
Networking is also crucial. Attend job fairs, connect with recruiters, and join online forums for engineers in Canada.
7. Prepare a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume should showcase your engineering expertise, work experience, and relevant skills. Moreover, you should write a cover letter that explains why you are the best candidate for the position and why you want to work in Canada.
Resume Tips:
- Use a Canadian-style resume (two pages, simple format, no photos).
- Highlight technical skills relevant to mechanical engineering.
- Focus on international work experience and certifications.
- Include keywords from the job posting to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
8. Ace Your Job Interview
Once you get shortlisted, prepare for your interview by researching the company and practicing common interview questions.
Common Interview Questions:
- Tell us about your experience as a mechanical engineer.
- How do you handle technical challenges in your projects?
- Why do you want to work in Canada?
- What engineering software are you proficient in?
- Describe a time you solved a complex mechanical issue.
9. Relocate and Settle in Canada
Once you secure a job and obtain your visa, you can start preparing for your move. Plan your accommodation, transportation, and other essentials before arriving in Canada.
Important Steps:
- Arrange your housing (temporary or permanent).
- Understand the cost of living in your chosen province.
- Get familiar with Canadian work culture and workplace expectations.
- Open a Canadian bank account and learn about taxes.
- Obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to start working.
10. Network and Continue Professional Development
In your mechanical engineering career, you need to build a professional network. This is one way of advancing your career. One way to do this is to join engineering organizations and attending industry events to connect with other engineers and other professionals.
Recommended Engineering Associations:
- Engineers Canada (https://engineerscanada.ca)
- Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO)
- Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA)
- Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering (CSME)
Continuing Education:
- Take online courses to stay updated on industry trends.
- Attend workshops and conferences for engineers.
- Consider pursuing a master’s degree or specialized certification to increase job prospects.
When you apply to be a mechanical engineer in Canada, you need to plan carefully.This includes hunting for the right jobs and getting the right visa. If you do things right, you can start an engineering career in Canada and enjoy all the benefits it entails. You will then finally enjoy living a high quality of life and earn competitive salaries.