For newcomers to Canada with a background in construction, selecting the right construction job or engineering role is a pivotal aspect of their immigration journey. While your experience and skills are essential, understanding the most sought-after positions in the construction and engineering sectors in Canada is equally crucial.

Outpost Recruitment specializes in recruiting for construction and engineering roles all across Canada. With years of combined expertise, we have established strong connections with clients from coast to coast. We place candidates in a variety of sectors, including general contracting, design engineering, project management consulting, property development, as well as within the ICI (Institutional Commercial and Industrial) buildings, infrastructure, and industrial sectors. Our extensive experience in mentoring and placing both local and international talent in construction jobs across Canada, coupled with our regular interactions with major companies in these sectors, enables us to identify the roles that are most consistently in demand.

In recent years, we’ve witnessed a substantial surge in activity in various construction and engineering-related industries throughout Canada, particularly in major cities like Vancouver and Toronto, as well as in regional areas across British Columbia. This includes significant projects such as LNG Canada, along with a range of municipal and regional initiatives. Our commitment to staying informed allows us to identify the growing demand for several top construction and engineering positions thanks to the thriving markets in Canada. You can find more information about these positions below:

1. Construction Project Manager

   Job Description: Construction Project Managers are responsible for overseeing project operations, including achieving profitability goals, duty assignment, health and safety compliance, budgets, scheduling, and team communication. They also play a key role in developing business opportunities with both existing and new clients.

   Job Requirements and Qualifications: Candidates for a Construction Project Manager position in Canada typically require a post-secondary degree in engineering or an equivalent qualification in a construction-related discipline. A minimum of 5 years of related construction experience is usually necessary for Project Manager roles. Project Coordinators (Project Coordinator, Assistant Project Manager, and Junior Project Manager are used interchangeably in Canada) typically need a minimum of 3+ years of experience. Other essential qualifications include familiarity with construction management and design/build formats, as well as experience with computerized project management systems, including scheduling, estimating, planning, and cost control.

   These roles are in demand across Canada, with specific needs in Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton.

2. Commercial Manager, Infrastructure

   Job Description: Commercial Managers oversee the financial aspects of the projects or portfolios they manage in infrastructure construction environments. Their responsibilities include project design management, contract administration, project planning, sub-contract management, contract resolution, commercial reporting, cost control, and risk management. They also play a crucial role in strategic development to meet business and revenue growth targets.

   Job Requirements and Qualifications: Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or corresponding professional membership. Experienced Commercial Managers with a minimum of 6 years of commercial management experience on major projects are especially sought after in the current Canadian construction job market. Candidates with executive-level experience on major projects, as well as those with experience managing major subcontracts, design consultancies, or previous major project Joint Venture experience, have an advantage.

   Opportunities for commercial management candidates are available throughout Canada, with specific needs in Vancouver and Toronto.

3. Construction Project Manager, Infrastructure

   Job Description: In infrastructure projects, Construction Project Managers are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget. They maintain positive relationships with owners and other stakeholders and support project acquisition and tendering. While the general responsibilities of a Construction Project Manager in Canada remain consistent between general construction jobs and infrastructure management, the specific project experience can vary.

   Job Requirements and Qualifications: Infrastructure construction project managers typically need an engineering degree, technical college diploma, or an equivalent combination of technical training and related experience. Senior Project Managers in infrastructure construction jobs, with a minimum of 7 years of experience, are particularly sought after. This level of Project Manager requires independence and expertise in areas such as Design Build or P3 project experience and comprehensive knowledge of construction practices, estimating, budgeting, scheduling, and safety requirements.

   These roles are specifically sought in Vancouver and Toronto.

4. Construction Estimator, Infrastructure

   
   Job Description: Construction Estimators are primarily responsible for pricing projects, conducting site reviews, and executing contract negotiations. The role demands strong organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to read and interpret construction drawings. Candidates with industry experience in transportation, roads, and large infrastructure projects are highly desired.

   Job Requirements and Qualifications: Candidates for this role need field experience in related disciplines and a sound understanding of construction processes. Proficiency in using estimating software, such as Bid2Win, is essential. A Gold Seal Certification or BCIT graduation is considered an additional asset. Outpost Recruitment has identified needs for Construction Estimators in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, and Toronto, and positions are available on various experience levels.

5. Construction Estimator, Buildings

   
   Job Description: In the buildings sector, Construction Estimators are responsible for tasks such as cost analysis, bid management, and allocation of cash allowances for projects. They report to the Chief Estimator of the buildings group and are involved in estimating activities for various project types, including hard bid, cost-plus, and design-build estimates.

   Job Requirements and Qualifications: Experienced Construction Estimators in the ICI sector, with a minimum of 7 years of experience, are particularly in demand. This level of candidate directs the work activities of other Estimators and has a strong knowledge of the local construction industry. A proven track record of preparing detailed estimates and submitting lump-sum tenders is required. Candidates should hold a diploma in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or a diploma in Building Technology.

   Positions for this role are available in Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto.

6. Electrical Engineer, Building Services

   
   Job Description: Electrical Engineers play a crucial role in building services engineering. They work closely with project managers, senior designers, and team leaders and collaborate with various consultants, including Architects, Structural Consultants, and Code Consultants. Proficiency in AutoCAD is essential for this role.

   Job Requirements and Qualifications: Candidates typically need 3-5 years of AutoCAD design experience and 2 years of design experience in LV, HV, control, and lighting systems. The ability to read architectural, structural, and electrical drawings and apply electrical building services engineering codes is essential. Candidates should possess a university or college degree in a related field and be eligible to apply for or already have an E.I.T. classification. Opportunities for Electrical Engineers in building services are available in Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Winnipeg.

7. Mechanical Engineer, Building Services

   
   Job Description: Mechanical Engineering positions require maintaining client relationships, building businesses, and mentoring team members. Mechanical Engineers lead design teams and handle the preparation and production of drawings and schematics for mechanical systems in various building applications. They coordinate with other consulting disciplines to ensure drawing integrity and completeness.

   Job Requirements and Qualifications: A post-secondary education in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, such as Building Systems, is necessary. Candidates typically need a minimum of 3+ years of relevant working experience. Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit, along with knowledge of bid and tendering processes, is required. Extensive knowledge of detailed architectural drawings, construction concepts, and the ability to read and apply relevant codes and standards are essential. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of Canadian/Provincial codes and standards in the industry. P. Eng. or CET certifications are considered assets in this position.

   Positions for Mechanical Engineers in building services are sought after in Vancouver.

If you are looking to start your career in Canada, consider these positions. If you are unsure about which role suits you best, or if you’d like a second opinion, feel free to reach out to Outpost Recruitment. Since 2011, we have specialized in matching the best local and international construction and engineering professionals with companies across Canada.

To take the first step towards your Canadian career, register with us or apply to a position through our jobs board.

About Outpost Recruitment: We are a boutique agency with a solid business foundation, dedicated to mentoring local and international talent. Our mission is to help qualified and motivated candidates find their desired roles while meeting the needs of our clients. We provide a personalized, proactive approach to our work, ensuring that we understand the unique needs of our candidates and clients. Our passion for what we do drives us to deliver results you can count on. We pair the perfect candidate with their dream job, and we use our expertise to make this happen.

Express Entry draw can be a path to your job in Canada

The Express Entry draw serves as a gateway to unlocking your career prospects in Canada. This immigration system swiftly identifies candidates with the skills and experience that Canadian employers seek, paving the way for a fulfilling job opportunity. As the draw selects candidates based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, those with high scores are invited to apply for permanent residence. This path not only leads to a new life in Canada but also offers the potential for a rewarding career in a country known for its economic stability and diverse job market. Don’t miss out on this avenue to your Canadian job dream.

The provincial nominee program is good for newcomers.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stands as a promising avenue for newcomers to Canada. This program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to secure permanent residency by demonstrating their commitment to and connection with a specific Canadian province. As each province tailors its PNP to address its distinct economic and labor needs, applicants find themselves in a favorable position to match their skills and qualifications to the demands of the regional job market. By participating in a PNP stream, newcomers not only gain a faster track to permanent residency but also access tailored pathways to build a successful life and career in their chosen province.