Earn a High Salary as a Construction Manager in Canada
October 12, 2023
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As Canada’s housing demand has increased to accommodate Canada’s consistently high numbers of new immigrants, the construction industry has gained prime importance. Combined with Canada’s serious shortage of construction workers, this has opened up many opportunities for eligible foreign construction managers who want to capitalize on Canada’s need for skilled construction workers.
Curious to know how you can work as a Construction Manager in Canada? Learn how to find and apply for construction management jobs in Canada!
Construction Management in Canada
Construction management is a thriving field in Canada, offering numerous opportunities for skilled professionals. Construction managers in Canada:
- Oversee construction projects,
- Manage budgets,
- Supervize construction progress and work schedules, and
- Ensuring adherence to the required quality standards.
Canada’s construction industry employs approximately 1.6 million workers and contributes 205,283,745,000.0 CAD to Canada’s gross domestic product (GDP), according to the Canadian Construction Association (CCA). There are currently 472 Construction Manager job posts in Canada according to Canada’s Job Bank.
How Can I Get a Construction Job in Canada?
If you are interested in working as a construction manager in Canada, there are several steps you can take to enhance your chances of finding employment. By following these steps, you can navigate the job market more effectively and increase your chances of landing a rewarding position.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Apply
Before you begin your job search, ensure you’re eligible to work in Canada. This includes being eligible to apply for a valid Canada work permit, which is necessary for foreign nationals seeking employment there. Before applying for a Canada work permit, you must:
- Prove your admissibility into Canada by passing a medical exam and criminal background check
- Have sufficient money to support yourself and your family in Canada
- Demonstrate to an immigration officer your ability to return home once your work permit expires, and
- Prove you won’t work for an employer listed on Canada’s non-compliant employers' list
Once you’ve met all these eligibility requirements, you can move on to the next step of researching construction jobs in Canada you may apply to.
Step 2: Research Construction Jobs in Canada
To find construction jobs in Canada, it is crucial to conduct thorough research. Start by exploring job boards, industry-specific websites, and professional networking platforms. Online job portals are a precious resource when looking for jobs in Canada. This includes prominent portals such as:
For a more focused job search, look for construction jobs in the provinces where they are most in demand as outlined in the table below. Figures obtained from Canada’s Job Bank.| In-demand Canadian Province | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Alberta | 131,306.28 |
| Manitoba | 102,001.54 |
| Northwest Territories | 142,306.83 |
| Nova Scotia | 103,433.70 |
| Prince Edward Island | 100,426.50 |
| Quebec | 106,288.69 |
| Saskatchewan | 132,579.04 |
| Yukon Territory | 143,393.55 |
To make your job search much easier, you can use the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for construction managers which is 70010. The duties, skill levels, and responsibilities outlined in the Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) categories will also enable you to identify which job posts you can and cannot apply for.
Once you have identified a construction management job post you’re eligible to apply for, it’s time to write your Curriculum Vitae (resume).
Step 3: Write a Canadian Style resume
When applying for construction management positions in Canada, it is important to tailor your resume to the Canadian job market. This includes emphasizing your ability to manage projects and teams effectively and your knowledge of Canadian construction regulations and standards. Use a professional and concise format, and ensure your resume is error-free.
Find out more about how to get work in Canada faster with the perfect resume.
Step 4: Gather Your Supporting Documents and Apply
Once you have identified suitable job opportunities, gather all the necessary supporting documents needed for construction management jobs in Canada application. This may include copies of your educational certificates, references, and relevant certifications or licenses. In particular, construction managers in Canada must have documented evidence of a:
- University degree in civil engineering or college diploma in construction technology,
- Master's degree in project management,
- Several years of experience as a construction supervisor or field superintendent, and
- Construction trade certification or professional engineering status.
Once you have gathered all the documents mentioned above and your resume, you may submit your application for your construction manager job post online or directly as instructed by your prospective Canadian employer.
Please Note
Among your supporting documents, ensure to prepare a well-crafted cover letter that highlights your strengths and explains why you are the ideal candidate for the position.
Find out more about how to find a job in Canada.
How Can I Work In Canada As a Construction Manager
To legally work in Canada, you must get a Canada work permit.
Canada Work Permit
Navigating the process of immigrating to Canada can be a complicated and challenging process for many applicants. To guide you through the process, follow the steps outlined on how to get a Canadian work permit.
Canada PR Programs for Construction Workers
Experienced Construction workers can also use the following immigration visa programs to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
Federal Skilled Workers Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is an immigration program designed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to attract skilled workers worldwide. The FSWP primarily allows the Canadian government to fill in the labor gaps in the country's economy and contribute to its overall economic growth by attracting skilled foreign nationals with managerial and professional experience.
Find out more about the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
Atlantic High-Skilled Program
The Atlantic High-Skilled Program is an immigration stream administered under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP). It was created to attract skilled workers with management or professional job experience to move to any one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces of:
Find out more about the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.
Provincial Nominee Programs
Many provinces and territories also have Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that you can use as an eligible construction manager to apply for permanent residency. As listed in the table below, these PNP programs include:
| Province | PNP Streams, Categories and Programs |
|---|---|
| British Columbia | Skilled Worker Stream |
| Manitoba | Skilled Worker Overseas Stream |
| New Brunswick | Skilled Workers Stream |
| Nova Scotia | Skilled Workers Stream |
| Northwest Territories | Skilled Workers Program |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Skilled Worker Category |
| Ontario | Foreign Worker Stream |
| In-demand Skills Stream | |
| Prince Edward Island | Skilled Workers Outside Canada Stream |
| Quebec | Skilled Worker Program |
| Saskatchewan | International Skilled Worker Category |
| Yukon Territory | Skilled Worker Program |
Learn more about the provincial nominee pathways to Canadian PR.
How Can I Enhance My Chances of Working in Canada As a Construction Manager?
Here are some steps you can take to enhance your chances of securing employment as a construction manager in Canada.
Enhance Your Skills and Knowledge
Continuous learning and professional development are crucial in construction management. Consider enrolling in construction management courses in Canada to upgrade your skills and stay updated with the latest industry trends. These courses will enhance your knowledge and make you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
Learn how you can study construction management in the top designated learning institution (DLI) colleges in Canada.
Network
Building a strong professional network is essential for finding job opportunities in any field. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with professionals in the construction industry. Join relevant associations or organizations to expand your network further.
Networking can lead to valuable connections and potential job offers. Contact the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) to receive guidance and information about upcoming construction networking events in Canada.
Gain Canadian Experience
Canadian employers often value candidates with local work experience. Consider applying for internships or entry-level positions to gain valuable experience in the Canadian construction industry. This will familiarize you with Canadian construction practices and help you build a reputation and network within the industry.
Stay Updated with Industry News
Keep yourself informed about the latest developments in the construction industry in Canada. Subscribe to industry publications, follow relevant blogs, and join online forums or groups where professionals discuss industry updates. Being aware of industry trends and news will give you an edge during job interviews and conversations with potential employers.
FAQs
Are There Any Opportunities For Career Advancement in Construction Management?
Yes, there are ample opportunities for career advancement in construction management in Canada. With experience and additional qualifications, you can progress to higher-level positions such as senior project manager or construction director or even start your construction management firm. Continuous learning, networking, and staying updated with industry trends are key to advancing your career in this field.
What are the Essential Qualities Required for a Career in Construction Management?
Important qualities for a construction manager include:
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Adaptability to changing construction site conditions
- Knowledge of construction laws and building codes
- Experience in team building and interpersonal skills