How to Find a Job in Ontario, Canada: Essential Tips

Start your career journey in Canada with our straightforward guide, tailored for immigrants and newcomers. Learn how to find a job in Ontario with ease using the wealth of tips, strategies, and insider knowledge.

Whether you’re seeking your first Canadian job or aiming to advance your career, this guide is your gateway to a thriving professional life in Ontario’s dynamic and diverse landscape.

To legally work in Ontario, non-Canadians must first secure an appropriate work permit or visa. This process involves determining the right type of permit based on the nature of the work, duration of employment, and other personal circumstances.

The Canadian government offers various categories of work permits, including open work permits and employer-specific work permits, each with its own set of eligibility criteria and application procedures.

Alongside this, obtaining a Social Insurance Number (SIN) is mandatory for all workers. The SIN is a unique number that allows access to government programs and services and is essential for employment in Canada. The application process for a SIN typically involves providing proof of identity and work permit documentation.

Rights and Benefits

Once employed in Ontario, workers are protected by several rights and benefits, which are key to ensuring a fair and safe working environment. The Employment Standards Act (ESA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding these rights.

The ESA establishes standards for various aspects of employment, including health and safety protocols in the workplace, protection against unjust dismissal, reasonable work hours, and equitable compensation. Beyond these fundamental rights, employees in Ontario often have access to additional benefits provided by their employers. These benefits, which can include health insurance, paid leave, and pension plans, vary depending on the employer and the specific terms of employment.

What to Expect

It is worth mentioning that wherever I have worked, the working conditions were excellent. And each time, for the first few days or weeks, the company would provide an orientation followed by adequate training.

In Ontario, we typically work 9-hour shifts, usually from 8 am to 5 pm, including a one-hour lunch break.

Post-Covid, a shift towards more flexible work arrangements has been observed, with many companies offering hybrid, remote, or on-site options.

Employees, especially those with long commutes, often prefer starting early to return home between 3-4 pm, helping them avoid rush hour and complete personal tasks before it gets too late.

In Canada, vacation entitlement starts with one week in the first year, two weeks for the next four years, and a third week after five years of service. While experienced workers can negotiate for three or occasionally four weeks, this depends on company policy and the individual’s negotiation skills.

When the company experiences busy periods, employees are often asked to work overtime, which is compensated at 1.5 times the regular rate, and in some cases, up to 3 times. This typically occurs after reaching 40 hours of work in a week, or 44 hours, depending on the company’s policy. Employees are expected to be available during core hours, which are usually established by the company or the manager.

As far as I am aware, Canadian companies adhere to legal standards, but when it comes to perks like vacation time, they are not as generous as those in Europe.

Crafting a Canadian-style resume and cover letter: A Canadian-style resume is typically concise and focuses on your achievements and skills relevant to the job you’re applying for. It should ideally be two pages or less, clearly outlining your work history, education, and professional accomplishments. A well-crafted cover letter should complement your resume, highlighting why you are a good fit for the position and demonstrating your knowledge of the company and industry. Above all, be honest and avoid faking. Use this resume builder tool to create your own resume.

Skills and qualifications: If you’re an internationally trained professional, it’s important to get your qualifications recognized in Canada. This may involve credential assessment services and, in some cases, additional training or certification. Upgrading your skills through courses, workshops, or further education can enhance your employability. Ontario offers various programs and services to help immigrants bridge their skills according to Canadian standards.

Language proficiency and additional training: Proficiency in English or French is essential in the Canadian job market. If language is a barrier, consider enrolling in language classes offered by many community organizations in Ontario. Additional training, such as learning new software, understanding Canadian workplace culture, or obtaining specific certifications, can significantly increase your job prospects.

Networking: Networking is a vital part of the job search process in Ontario. It involves building professional relationships and can lead to learning about job opportunities that are not advertised publicly. Attend industry meetups, and join professional associations, such as the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers or the Ontario Medical Association.

Engage in local community groups and online forums, and use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Many jobs are filled through referrals and networking, so building a strong professional network is key.

That’s how my wife and I secured our first jobs.

In my experience, whenever there was a vacancy in the company where I work, our department manager would seek referrals. If the referred individual seemed like a good fit, they would often be granted an interview opportunity. I’ve noticed that this practice of valuing referrals is also common at the workplaces of many people I know.

Utilizing online job portals and employment agencies: Online job portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Indeed, Workopolis, Glassdoor, and the Government of Canada’s Job Bank are excellent resources for finding job openings in Ontario. Tailor your online profile and resume to match the jobs you are applying for.

Employment agencies such as Adecco, Aerotek, and Mapower, can also be a valuable resource, especially for newcomers. They can provide job placement services and offer advice on resume building, interview preparation, and understanding the local job market.

Nowadays, I’ve noticed that a majority of job postings are sourced from placement agencies. In one department where I worked, more than 80% of the staff were “contractors” hired through these agencies, with less than 20% being direct hires by the company itself.

Attending job fairs and local community events: Job fairs are a great way to meet employers, learn about job openings, and understand what companies are looking for in candidates. They can also provide an opportunity for on-the-spot interviews. Local community events, seminars, and workshops are also beneficial for networking and learning more about your industry or sector in Ontario.

Check local community boards, university career centers, or websites like Eventbrite for upcoming job fair dates.

Volunteering can significantly boost your job search, serving not just as a means to widen your professional network but also to enrich your work experience.

This approach was particularly fruitful for my wife, who met her future boss during a volunteer event. A brief yet impactful interaction there, followed by a single formal interview, led to her being hired. Despite not meeting all the initial requirements, she demonstrated her capabilities over time, ultimately securing her position in the company where she continues to work.

Government programs for job seekers: The Government of Ontario offers various programs and services to assist job seekers, especially immigrants and newcomers. Programs like the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), Bridge Training Programs, and Employment Ontario can provide job search assistance, skills training, and sometimes even help with licensing and certification in your field.

Legal rights and obligations for workers in Ontario: It’s essential to understand your rights and obligations as a worker in Ontario. This includes knowledge about minimum wage laws, health and safety regulations, and employment standards. The Ontario Ministry of Labour provides resources and information on these topics, ensuring that you are aware of your rights regarding working hours, compensation, and workplace safety.

Understanding work permits and employment laws: Familiarizing yourself with Canadian employment laws and work permit requirements is crucial for a smooth transition into the Ontario job market. The Government of Canada’s website is a valuable resource, offering detailed information on various work permits, eligibility criteria, and the application process. It’s important to ensure that your work status complies with Canadian regulations, which will not only legalize your employment but also protect your rights as a worker in Ontario.

Whenever I was interviewed for an engineering position, the panel typically included one person from the Human Resources (HR) department and one to three individuals from management and the engineering department. To ensure professionalism, I always made it a point to provide a resume for each person on the panel.

Cultural nuances and interview etiquette: Understanding Canadian workplace culture and interview etiquette is essential. This includes effective communication, respecting diversity, and demonstrating teamwork and adaptability. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the company, and always have questions ready for the interviewer to show your interest and engagement.

Follow-up strategies post-interview: After the interview, it’s important to send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. This not only shows your professionalism but also reinforces your interest in the position. Keep track of your applications and follow up if you haven’t heard back within a reasonable time frame. However, be patient and avoid excessive follow-ups, as hiring processes can vary in length.

Workplace culture in Ontario: Adapting to the workplace culture in Ontario involves understanding Canadian work ethics, communication styles, and professional interactions. Canadians typically value punctuality, politeness, and a good work-life balance. Being open to learning and adapting to new work environments will help you integrate more smoothly into your new role.

Continuing education and professional development: Continuous learning and professional development are highly valued in Ontario’s job market. Seek opportunities for further training, attend workshops, and consider additional certifications relevant to your field. This not only enhances your skills but also shows your commitment to professional growth and adaptability.

Building a support network in your new community: Building a strong support network can greatly assist in your professional and personal adjustment in Ontario. Connect with local community groups, professional associations, and social clubs. These networks can provide valuable support, advice, and even job leads, making your transition into your new community and workplace smoother and more enjoyable.

When working in Ontario, it’s important to be aware of several key factors that can influence your professional experience:

• Regulated Professions and Trades: In Ontario, many professions and trades require a license or certification. It’s essential to obtain the necessary credentials to work legally in these fields. For example, to be recognized and work as a professional engineer in Ontario, you must be licensed by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO).
• Importance of Work References: Employers often value work references. If your references are international, it’s beneficial to include at least one, provided they are fluent in English and can communicate effectively.
• Volunteering as a Networking Tool: Engaging in volunteer work can be an effective part of your job search strategy. It allows you to build valuable network contacts and gain additional work experience.
• Employment Insurance (EI): In case of job loss or certain other conditions, you may be eligible for Employment Insurance benefits, which provide temporary financial assistance.
• Minimum Wage Laws: Be aware of the current minimum wage in Ontario, as it sets the baseline for entry-level salaries.
• Minimum Wage: As of October 1, 2023, the minimum wage in Ontario is $16.50 per hour.
• Severance and Termination Policies: Know your rights regarding severance pay and the proper procedures for termination, as outlined in the Employment Standards Act.
• Maternity/Paternity Leave: Ontario provides maternity and paternity leave options for new parents, which are important to consider when planning a family.
• Pension Plans and Retirement Savings: Familiarize yourself with options like the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and employer-sponsored retirement savings plans.
• Income Tax Obligations: Understand your responsibilities regarding income tax in Ontario, including how to file tax returns.
• Accommodation for Disabilities: Employers in Ontario are required to provide reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive work environment.
• Public Holidays: Ontario recognizes 9 public holidays annually, during which most workers are entitled to take the day off with pay.
• Minimum Legal Age to Work: In Ontario, the minimum age requirement for many types of employment is 14 years.