Working in Vancouver
If you're considering moving to Vancouver, finding a job is likely an important step. Here's some helpful information to guide you through the process.
Vancouver is often recognized as one of the most livable cities globally, situated amidst stunning natural surroundings. The capital of British Columbia appeals to both nature lovers and urban dwellers. Unlike cities in Eastern Canada, Vancouver doesn't have extremely cold winters; the temperatures are generally moderate, but rain is frequent. It's an ideal city for working, embracing outdoor activities, and raising a family, although the cost of living is on the higher side.
Having the right qualifications and training doesn't automatically secure you a job in Vancouver. The initial step is to learn about the regulations and demands of the job market, including current needs. If you're from a French-speaking country, be aware that there's no agreement between British Columbia and such countries for professional equivalency. Obtaining an equivalency certificate might be necessary. Since finding a permanent job may take time, considering a temporary job or internship initially could be a practical approach.
The Vancouver job market
Vancouver's proximity to the Pacific and the rail links that serve it have enabled it to become a hub for trade between Europe, Asia, and the rest of Canada. The city is experiencing strong growth in finance, technology, healthcare, film, and personal services. What's more, it's one of Canada's greenest cities: the social economy and green economy sectors are booming.
The province's job market is based on numerous industries, including forestry, mining, construction, telecommunications, and technology, not to mention tourism and fishing. The provincial government is counting on job creation to continue attracting immigrants. To find out more about job market trends in British Columbia, visit Job Bank or the government's WorkBC website.
Looking for work in Vancouver
Before looking for a job in Vancouver, make sure that your qualifications and skills will be recognized in the region. You should also check whether the profession you practiced in your home country exists here, whether it is regulated and governed by a professional order, and what qualifications are required to practice it in the province.
You may consider changing professions when you arrive in Canada. However, you'll need to determine whether you need a work permit to practice in Vancouver. To find out, consult our article Working in Canada.
Begin your job search by exploring popular job boards like BCJobs, Craigslist, Indeed, and Glassdoor. Additionally, you can identify companies in Vancouver that pique your interest using the 411.ca directory. Visit these companies in person to either submit your CV or gather the contact information of the person handling recruitment.
Networking is crucial, so consider making local connections through social networks and expat websites. In case you don't secure a job immediately upon arrival, volunteering is a valuable option. It not only allows you to expand your network but also helps improve your English skills. Employers in Vancouver often appreciate the initiative and experience gained through volunteering.
A number of community and provincial organizations help immigrants integrate in Vancouver. Here are a few examples:
SDE British Columbia
The Société de développement économique de la Colombie-Britannique (SDE) helps newcomers who wish to set up a business in the province. It also offers an internship and placement service, as well as occasional leadership training.
Employment service centers
Vancouver's Employment Service Centres, operated by the provincial government, offer free self-service job search assistance, computer access, photocopying services, job search workshops, and more. If required, you can also benefit from personalized coaching. Counselors can help you adapt your CV to the Canadian job market.
Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre
On this free online resource, you'll find useful information to improve your job search. You can also adapt your resume to the Canadian job market by attending their "Drop-in Resume Clinic" at Vancouver's Central Library.
Labor standards in British Columbia
In June 2023, the minimum wage in British Columbia rose to $16.75 CAD per hour. Employees must receive their pay at least twice a month.
An employee may not work more than 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week. If they work more than five hours, they must take a meal break of at least 30 minutes. Overtime is paid at the rate of 50% above 40 hours.
The employee accumulates a minimum of two weeks' paid vacation for each completed twelve-month reference year. After five years with the same company, the employee earns three weeks' vacation. These vacations are paid at a rate of 4% of gross salary accumulated during the year for seniority of one to five years and 6% beyond five years.
Here is the list of paid public holidays in British Columbia:
- New Year's Day: January 1;
- B.C. Family Day: second Monday in February;
- Good Friday: Friday before Easter;
- Victoria Day: Monday before May 25;
- Canada Day: July 1 or July 2 if July 1 is a Sunday;
- B.C. Day: 1st Monday in August;
- Labour Day: first Monday in September;
- Thanksgiving: second Monday in October;
- Remembrance Day: November 11;
- Christmas Day: December 25.
If an employee works on a public holiday, they will receive one and a half times the regular hourly rate for the hours worked on that day, along with holiday pay for that day. To estimate holiday entitlement and pay, you can use a holiday pay calculator. Even if you didn't work on a public holiday but were available to work, you are still entitled to receive public holiday pay.
If you want to quit your job in Vancouver, it's not legally mandatory to provide your employer with notice. On the other hand, if your employer decides to terminate your employment, they are obligated to give you notice, and the duration depends on your length of service unless you've been employed for less than three months.
Keep in mind that specific professions and sectors may have their own rules. For more information, you can refer to the official British Columbia website or get in touch with your company's union.
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