The mining industry in Canada has grown exponentially in recent years, with many job opportunities opening up to local and foreign workers. There are currently over 800 mines across Canada, employing more than 363,000 workers. The country ranks as the top producer of potash and uranium, with a ranking in the top 5 for nickel and diamonds.
The mining industry now accounts for 5% of the country’s GDP and relies heavily on the continuous improvement of machinery and practices in the sector. Cutting edge technology is developed on a constant basis, ensuring that Canada is at the forefront of the mining industry on a global scale.
Job opportunities
As the mining industry continues its advances in technology, opportunities open up for applicants who have the relevant experience and skills. The skills required range from mining extraction expertise and mineral process technology to computer technology and information management, amongst others.
If you are looking to immigrate to Canada and need a job in the mining industry, you will most probably need to work in one of four provinces. Three quarters of Canadian mineral production is accounted for by Ontario (27%), British Columbia (18%), Saskatchewan (16%) and Quebec (14%).
Salaries in the mining industry are increasing and skilled workers are in high demand.
In 2014, the CostMine survey results of Canadian Mine Salaries, Wages and Benefits was published. The numbers begin with the range and then the average in thousands of Canadian dollars per hour.
General Manager = from 125 to 257 for an average of 202
Mine Manager = from 99 to 295 for an average of 169
Mill Superintendent = from 86 to 162 for an average of 131
Mine Engineer = from 80 to 153 for an average of 103
Mine Geologist = from 66 to 123 for an average of 97
Environmental Coordinator = from 70 to 123 for an average of 97
Personnel Manager = from 92 to 156 for an average of 129