Top 10 Best Paid Jobs in Canada and How to Apply
Canada’s thriving economy and demand for skilled professionals make it a prime destination for those seeking high-paying jobs. With diverse opportunities in various sectors, professionals with the right skills and qualifications can enjoy lucrative careers in this welcoming country. Here are the top 10 best-paid jobs in Canada in 2025 and how to apply for them.
1. Physicians and Surgeons
Average Salary: CAD 250,000 – CAD 400,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: The healthcare industry is one of the most stable and essential sectors in Canada, and physicians and surgeons play a critical role in maintaining public health.
How to Apply:
- Obtain a medical degree and complete residency training.
- Pass the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE).
- Get licensed by the provincial or territorial regulatory body.
- Search for job openings on healthcare job boards or hospital websites.
2. Dentists
Average Salary: CAD 150,000 – CAD 300,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Dental care is in high demand, and dentists provide essential services to maintain oral health.
How to Apply:
- Earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
- Pass the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) certification.
- Register with the dental regulatory authority in your province.
- Apply through private dental clinics or start your own practice.
3. Pharmacists
Average Salary: CAD 100,000 – CAD 140,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Pharmacists ensure the safe distribution and use of medications, a critical aspect of healthcare.
How to Apply:
- Obtain a degree in pharmacy from an accredited institution.
- Complete the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) certification.
- Register with your provincial pharmacy regulatory authority.
- Look for opportunities in hospitals, retail pharmacies, or research institutions.
4. Software Engineers
Average Salary: CAD 90,000 – CAD 150,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Canada’s tech industry is booming, and skilled software engineers are in high demand for developing innovative solutions.
How to Apply:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering.
- Gain relevant experience in programming languages and frameworks.
- Obtain certifications in popular technologies (e.g., AWS, Azure, or Kubernetes).
- Search for jobs on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor.
5. Pilots
Average Salary: CAD 120,000 – CAD 200,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Pilots are responsible for safely transporting people and goods, making it a highly skilled and well-compensated profession.
How to Apply:
- Obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) through Transport Canada.
- Accumulate flying hours and gain experience.
- Apply to airlines or charter companies.
- Network with industry professionals for referrals.
6. Petroleum Engineers
Average Salary: CAD 100,000 – CAD 180,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Canada’s oil and gas sector drives a significant portion of its economy, and petroleum engineers are vital for optimizing resource extraction.
How to Apply:
- Earn a degree in petroleum, chemical, or mechanical engineering.
- Gain relevant experience in the oil and gas industry.
- Obtain certification with Engineers Canada.
- Apply to oil companies or energy consultancies.
7. IT Managers
Average Salary: CAD 110,000 – CAD 160,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: IT managers oversee an organization’s technology infrastructure, ensuring efficiency and security.
How to Apply:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in IT, computer science, or a related field.
- Gain experience in IT management or leadership roles.
- Obtain certifications like PMP, ITIL, or CISSP.
- Look for roles in tech companies or large corporations.
8. Lawyers
Average Salary: CAD 90,000 – CAD 200,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Lawyers provide critical legal expertise in various fields, from corporate law to criminal defense.
How to Apply:
- Complete a law degree (JD or LLB).
- Pass the bar examination in your province or territory.
- Gain experience through internships or articling.
- Apply to law firms or start your own practice.
9. Financial Managers
Average Salary: CAD 100,000 – CAD 150,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Financial managers oversee budgets, investments, and strategies to ensure organizational financial health.
How to Apply:
- Earn a degree in finance, accounting, or business administration.
- Gain experience in financial planning or management.
- Obtain certifications like CPA or CFA.
- Look for roles in banks, corporations, or consultancy firms.
10. Engineers (Electrical, Civil, and Mechanical)
Average Salary: CAD 80,000 – CAD 140,000 per year
Why It Pays Well: Engineers play a crucial role in designing and maintaining Canada’s infrastructure and industries.
How to Apply:
- Earn a degree in your specific engineering discipline.
- Register as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng) with Engineers Canada.
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level roles.
- Apply to engineering firms or government projects.
Conclusion
Canada offers diverse and well-paying career opportunities for skilled professionals across various sectors. To secure a top-paying job, ensure your qualifications align with industry requirements, gain relevant experience, and leverage professional networks. With dedication and the right strategy, you can build a rewarding career in Canada while enjoying its high quality of life.