okohjohn193Canada’s oil and gas industry remains one of the strongest sectors in the world. In 2025, thousands of jobs open each year for skilled workers from other countries. Many companies offer visa sponsorship to fill important roles. Workers can earn $100,000 or more per year in some positions. This guide covers everything you need to know about these jobs, from types of work to the application process.
Why Canada Needs Foreign Workers in Oil and Gas
Canada has large oil and gas reserves, especially in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland. The country produces millions of barrels of oil each day. However, there is a shortage of local workers with the right skills. Companies need engineers, technicians, drillers, and safety officers.
In 2025, the government allows companies to hire foreign workers through special programs. These programs help fill jobs fast. Workers get a chance to live and work in Canada. Some even move their families later.
The pay is high because the work is demanding and requires training. Entry-level jobs start at $50,000 to $70,000 a year. Experienced workers earn $100,000 or more. Overtime and bonuses add extra money.
Top Oil and Gas Jobs in Canada for 2025
Here are the most common jobs that offer visa sponsorship:
1. Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum engineers design ways to extract oil and gas from the ground. They work on drilling plans and equipment.
- Average Pay: $110,000 – $150,000 per year
- Education Needed: Bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering or related field
- Experience: 3–5 years
- Apply for Petroleum Engineer Jobs in Canada
2. Drilling Supervisor (Rig Manager)
Drilling supervisors manage teams on oil rigs. They ensure safety and meet daily targets.
- Average Pay: $120,000 – $160,000 per year
- Education Needed: High school + technical training
- Experience: 5–10 years in drilling
- Search Drilling Supervisor Jobs
3. Heavy Equipment Operator
Operators run large machines like excavators and bulldozers on job sites.
- Average Pay: $70,000 – $95,000 per year
- Education Needed: High school + equipment certification
- Experience: 1–3 years
- Find Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs
4. Health and Safety Officer
Safety officers check work sites and train workers to avoid accidents.
- Average Pay: $80,000 – $110,000 per year
- Education Needed: College diploma in safety or related field
- Experience: 2–4 years
- Apply for Safety Officer Jobs
5. Pipefitter / Welder
Pipefitters install and repair pipes that carry oil and gas. Welders join metal parts.
- Average Pay: $75,000 – $100,000 per year
- Education Needed: Trade certification
- Experience: 2–5 years
- Search Pipefitter Jobs
6. Geologist
Geologists study rocks and soil to find oil and gas deposits.
- Average Pay: $90,000 – $130,000 per year
- Education Needed: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in geology
- Experience: 3–7 years
- Find Geologist Jobs
7. Truck Driver (Oilfield Hauler)
Drivers move equipment and supplies to remote sites. A special license is required.
- Average Pay: $65,000 – $90,000 per year
- Education Needed: High school + Class 1 or 3 license
- Experience: 1–2 years
- Apply for Oilfield Truck Driver Jobs
Companies That Sponsor Visas in 2025
Many large companies in Canada sponsor foreign workers. Here are some of the top ones:
| Company Name | Main Locations | Jobs Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Suncor Energy | Alberta, Ontario | Engineers, Operators, Safety |
| Cenovus Energy | Alberta, Saskatchewan | Drillers, Technicians, Welders |
| Canadian Natural | Alberta | All levels – Entry to Senior |
| Imperial Oil | Alberta, Newfoundland | Geologists, Managers, Drivers |
| TC Energy | Alberta, BC | Pipefitters, Inspectors |
These companies post jobs on their websites and job boards. Check their career pages each month for new openings.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship
Canada offers two main paths for oil and gas workers:
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
- Company applies for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- LMIA proves no Canadian worker is available for the job.
- Worker gets a work permit for 1–2 years.
- Permit can be renewed.
2. Express Entry (for Permanent Residency)
- Best for skilled workers with degrees and experience.
- Create an online profile.
- Get points for age, education, work, and language.
- Applicants with higher scores receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Leads to permanent residency.
Both paths need:
- Valid job offer from a Canadian company
- Proof of education and work experience
- English or French language test (IELTS or TEF)
- Medical exam and police certificate
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Update Your Resume
- List all education, certifications, and work history.
- Highlight safety training and equipment skills.
Step 2: Get Certifications
- Red Seal for trades (welding, pipefitting)
- H2S Alive, First Aid, Fall Protection
- WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials)
Step 3: Search for Jobs
- Use job boards: Indeed, Workopolis, LinkedIn, Job Bank
- Apply to 10–20 jobs per week.
- Prepare a brief cover letter tailored to each position.
Step 4: Prepare for Interview
- Practice common questions: safety rules, past projects, teamwork.
- Be ready to talk about long hours and remote camps.
Step 5: Accept Offer and Start Visa Process
- Company sends job offer letter.
- Apply for work permit online or at a Canadian embassy.
- Pay fees (around $150–$1,000 CAD).
Step 6: Travel to Canada
- Book flight after permit approval.
- Company often pays for first flight and camp housing.
Cost of Living and Savings
| City / Area | Monthly Rent (1-bedroom) | Food & Transport | Total Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary, AB | $1,200–$1,600 | $500 | $1,700–$2,100 |
| Fort McMurray, AB | $1,000–$1,400 (camp free) | $400 | $1,400–$1,800 |
| Saskatoon, SK | $900–$1,200 | $450 | $1,350–$1,650 |
Most oilfield jobs provide free housing in camps. Workers save $1,000–$2,000 each month. After tax, a worker earning $100,000 keeps about $75,000–$80,000 per year.
Benefits of Working in Canadian Oil and Gas
- High pay with overtime
- Health insurance from day one
- Pension plans
- Paid vacation (2–4 weeks)
- Training programs
- Path to permanent residency
Challenges to Expect
- Long shifts (12 hours a day, 14 days on / 7 days off)
- Cold weather in winter
- Remote locations – far from cities
- Physical work and safety risks
Tips to Stand Out
- Learn basic French if applying in Quebec.
- Get safety tickets before applying.
- Join online groups for oil workers on Facebook and LinkedIn.
- Keep documents ready: passport, degrees, reference letters.
- Be honest about experience – companies check.
Future of Oil and Gas Jobs in Canada
The industry plans to hire 50,000 workers by 2030. New projects in LNG (liquefied natural gas) create more jobs. Green energy rules push companies to hire environmental specialists too. Skilled workers will always find work.
FAQ – Oil and Gas Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship 2025
Q: Do I need a degree for all jobs? A: No. Trades like welding or driving need certifications, not degrees.
Q: How long does the visa take? A: LMIA takes 2–6 months. Work permit takes 2–8 weeks after LMIA.
Q: Can my family come with me? A: On TFWP, spouses can get open work permits. Children get study permits.
Q: Is French required? A: English is enough in Alberta and Saskatchewan. French helps in Quebec.
Q: What is the minimum salary for sponsorship? A: No fixed minimum, but most sponsored jobs pay $60,000 or more.
Q: Do companies pay for flights? A: Many pay for the first flight and return ticket after contract.
Q: Can I change jobs after arriving? A: You must work for the sponsor first. After 1 year, you can apply to change.
Q: Are women hired in oil and gas? A: Yes. Companies follow equal hiring rules. Many women work as engineers and operators.
Q: What taxes do I pay? A: Federal and provincial tax – about 20–30% of income.
Q: Is camp life hard? A: Camps have Wi-Fi, gyms, and good food. You share a room but save money.
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