Canada’s robust oil and gas industry presents lucrative opportunities for skilled workers globally, particularly in offshore roles. These positions involve work on oil rigs, ships, or other marine environments beyond the country’s territorial boundaries. Here’s a concise overview of offshore jobs in Canada in 2024:
Types of Offshore Jobs:
- Engineering: Roles for petroleum, mechanical, and subsea engineers to design, install, and maintain offshore infrastructure.
- Geoscientists: Opportunities for geologists and geophysicists essential for exploration and resource evaluation.
- Tradespeople: Positions for welders, electricians, pipefitters, and others involved in construction, maintenance, and repair.
- Rig Workers: Jobs for drillers, derrick operators, and personnel operating equipment.
Location:
Most offshore jobs in Canada are situated off the eastern coast, particularly around Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia, where oil and gas exploration and extraction are prominent.
Skills and Qualifications
Offshore roles often demand specific technical qualifications, safety certifications, and occasionally advanced degrees. Specialized areas like underwater welding and advanced drilling technology may experience shortages due to expertise requirements.
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation for offshore jobs is generally higher than onshore equivalents due to the demanding nature of the work and required skills. Benefits may include hazard pay, comprehensive health coverage, and production-based bonuses.
Eligibility for TFWP
To secure offshore jobs via the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in Canada, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Valid Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer compliant with local labor standards.
- LMIA: Employer must obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) demonstrating the need for a foreign worker.
- General Work Permit Requirements: Fulfilling general criteria including relevant education, work experience, language proficiency, medical exam (if necessary), and a clean background check.
Where to Find Offshore Jobs:
- Online Job Boards: Explore industry-specific and general platforms like Oil and Gas Job Search, Workopolis, Indeed Canada, and the Canadian government’s Job Bank.
- Company Websites: Major energy companies like ExxonMobil Canada, Suncor Energy, and Canadian Natural Resources often list openings on their websites.
- Recruitment Agencies: Agencies such as Airswift, ORSI, SNC Lavalin, and Kelly Services specialize in placing workers in offshore and oil and gas positions in Canada.
By leveraging these resources and meeting eligibility criteria, international job seekers can navigate the TFWP and secure rewarding careers in Canada’s offshore industry.