Top IT Jobs & Skills To Immigrate to Canada in 2024

From immigration hubs like Toronto and Vancouver to the tech-savvy streets of Montreal, the Canadian scene is alive with startups, research institutions, and multinational corporations.

The Conference Board of Canada, in 2023 noted Canada’s tech sector contributing 9.8% to the national GDP, exceeding the global average.

This booming tech landscape translates to exciting opportunities for skilled foreigners seeking a fulfilling and lucrative career in Canada. 

Fortunately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is actively seeking talent in STEM fields like software development and data science as they are considered some of the highest-paying IT Jobs in Canada. A significant portion of Express Entry invitations are being directed towards these roles, making it an ideal time to join the Canadian tech wave.

More so, Software engineers consistently rank among the top professions receiving invitations to apply. According to Randstad, the average IT role in Canada commands a healthy $87,300 annually. 

This brings us to discussing the highest-paying IT jobs in Canada. Check out more on how you can qualify for Canadian immigration with your experience in IT. 

Canada is a welcoming hub for skilled immigrants, and the tech industry is booming! 

If you’re an IT professional looking for new opportunities and a high quality of life, Canada might be your perfect match. 

Here are the top 7 highest-paying IT jobs in Canada, along with insights into what they entail and why they’re in demand:

1. Cloud Architect (Average Annual Salary: $107,000): 

🔹Design and manage cloud computing infrastructure for businesses.

🔹Stay at the forefront of cloud technologies like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.

🔹Be in high demand due to the rapid shift towards cloud-based solutions.

2. IT Manager (Average Annual Salary: $98,000): ‍

🔹Oversee IT operations and ensure the smooth functioning of technology systems.

🔹Lead and manage IT teams, strategize IT goals, and ensure budgets are met.

🔹Possess strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

3. Data Scientists & Data Architects (Average Annual Salary: $100,000):

🔹Extract meaningful insights from large datasets to inform business decisions.

🔹Design and build data architectures for storing, managing, and analyzing data.

🔹Possess expertise in statistics, programming, and data visualization tools.

4. Linux/Unix Administrator (Average Annual Salary: $121,000):

🔹Manage and maintain Linux/Unix servers and systems.

🔹Ensure system security, performance, and stability.

🔹Have in-depth knowledge of Linux/Unix commands and scripting languages.

5. Project Manager (Software) (Average Annual Salary: $146,000): ‍

🔹Lead and manage software development projects from ideation to completion.

🔹Ensure projects meet deadlines, budgets, and quality standards.

🔹Possess strong communication, collaboration, and project management skills.

6. Project Manager (Infrastructure) (Average Annual Salary: $137,000): ️

🔹Manage IT infrastructure projects like network upgrades or data center migrations.

🔹Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to ensure project success.

🔹Possess technical knowledge of IT infrastructure and project management skills.

7. Project Management Office Lead (Average Annual Salary: $140,000):

🔹Oversee the project management office (PMO) and establish project management best practices.

🔹Develop and implement project management methodologies and tools.

🔹Possess extensive project management experience and leadership skills.

In-Demand Skills & Certifications Required to Secure an IT Job in Canada in 2024

Although a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a relevant field is the threshold, However, the pivotal aspect for obtaining the highest-paying IT jobs in Canada highly depends on the definite role and the industry.

While some leadership positions might require a master’s degree, relevant work experience reigns supreme. 

Building up several years in a related field, particularly with achievements in project management, team leadership, or implementing complex systems, is highly valuable. 

In-Demand Tech Skills:

🔹Cloud Computing: Expertise in platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud is highly valuable. Understanding cloud infrastructure, deployment, and security is key. 

🔹Cybersecurity:  With rising cyber threats, professionals with expertise in network security, incident response, and penetration testing are in high demand. 

🔹Data Analytics: Businesses are leveraging data to make informed decisions. Skills in data analysis, visualization, and machine learning are crucial. 

🔹Software Development: Proficiency in coding languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript, along with frameworks like React and Node.js, is essential. 

🔹Networking: Understanding network protocols, administration, and troubleshooting is valuable for various IT roles. 

🔹Project Management: Leading and managing IT projects effectively requires strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. 

In-Demand IT Certifications:

🔹Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): This globally recognized certification validates your expertise in cybersecurity. 

🔹Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): Demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills in Cisco networking technologies. 

🔹CompTIA A+: A foundational certification for IT support professionals and entry-level roles. 

🔹AWS Certified Solutions Architect: Validates your ability to design, deploy, and manage cloud solutions on AWS. 

🔹Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect: Demonstrates expertise in architecting and managing Google Cloud solutions. 

🔹Project Management Professional (PMP): The gold standard for project management certifications, recognized worldwide.

Remember, certifications can add a boost, but the true key lies in a potent blend of strong technical skills, relevant experience, and the ability to adapt in this ever-evolving field. 

Don’t forget to network, tailor your resume and cover letter, and hone your interview skills to stand out from the crowd!

IT Job Outlook in Canada 2024

The IT job outlook in Canada for 2024 looks bright, with several factors driving high demand for skilled professionals:

🔹Economic Growth: Canada’s economy is projected to grow by 2-3% in 2024, fueling ongoing technological adoption and IT spending. 

🔹Immigration Push: Canada’s ambitious immigration targets aim to attract skilled workers, with IT fields heavily targeted. Over 80,000 job openings are expected in data analysis and AI roles by 2031. Subsequently, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is expected to grow by 31% by 2030. Further, Cloud computing jobs are projected to increase by 19% by 2025.

🔹Aging Workforce: The tech sector faces an aging workforce, creating opportunities for new talent.

🔹Digital Transformation: Businesses across industries are embracing digital transformation, increasing demand for IT expertise.

Canada Immigration Programs for IT Professionals

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most relevant Canada Immigration Programs for IT professionals in 2024:

Federal Economic Programs:

🔹Express Entry: This is the primary point-based system for skilled worker immigration. IT professionals with strong education, work experience, and language skills can create an Express Entry profile and be eligible for permanent residency if they score high enough points.

🔹The new category-based Express Entry draw under STEM occupation (2023-1) also invites eligible profiles with at least six months of work experience to apply for Canada PR. 

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

Many provinces have their own PNP streams targeting in-demand professions like IT. These programs offer faster processing times and nomination opportunities based on the specific needs of the province.

🔹British Columbia PNP Tech Pilot: Focuses on attracting experienced professionals in specific tech fields like AI, data science, and cybersecurity.

🔹Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP): Offers multiple streams, including the Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway for experienced tech professionals.

🔹Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream: Targets skilled workers with experience in key sectors like information technology.

🔹Saskatchewan PNP Occupations in Demand: Includes several IT occupations eligible for nomination.

New Rules for International Students Qualifying for Canada PR

Starting September 1st, 2024, graduates of master’s and other short graduate programs (previously ineligible) can now access 3-year PGWPs, regardless of program duration.

Therefore, international students in short graduate programs now have a longer runway to build essential work experience for Express Entry applications. Overall, these changes aim to streamline PGWP eligibility while expanding opportunities for some international graduates to contribute to Canada’s workforce.

To determine more about your chances, you can schedule an appointment with our expert immigration consultants here.