Moving to Toronto can be a big change, especially if you’re coming from another part of Canada or from abroad. It’s not easy, but you’ve made it this far, and now you’re probably thinking, “How do I find a good job here?”
The first thing you need to do is gather all the necessary information to prepare for your job search.
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To work in Toronto, you’ll need a work permit and a social security number. If you’re unsure how to get these, start by researching the requirements for moving to Canada and how to obtain a work permit.
Once that’s sorted, focus on updating your resume. Make sure it aligns with Canadian standards. It might also help to brush up on your English or French, as these are the main languages spoken in Toronto.
In this guide, we’ll go through how to land a job in Toronto—from crafting a standout resume to understanding the local job market, the best job platforms to use, and more.
How Can I Improve My Resume to Increase My Chances of Landing a Job in Toronto?
Toronto is a city full of opportunities, but competition is stiff. To make sure your resume gets noticed, it needs to be well-crafted. It’s always a good idea to update your resume after each significant career milestone, whether it’s a new role, a change in responsibilities, a promotion, or a new certification.
If you’ve gained new skills or completed important projects, don’t forget to add those details to your resume.
Some Toronto employers prefer to see Canadian work experience, especially for roles beyond entry level. One way to gain this experience is to start with a short-term job. If you do well, your employer might offer you a permanent position, giving you that valuable local experience. If you need more help, you might want to look into professional resume writing services available in Toronto.
What You Should Know About the Toronto Labor Market
As of late 2023, Canada’s unemployment rate hit its lowest point in nearly a decade. Ontario alone saw an increase of about 137,900 new jobs.
Ontario’s unemployment rate has been lower than the national average for more than two years. Being Canada’s economic hub, Toronto offers plenty of opportunities across various sectors with higher-than-average wages.
Some of the industries currently booming in Toronto include:
- Finance
- Technology
- Healthcare
- Food and Beverages
- Life Sciences
According to Global News Canada, some of the most in-demand jobs earlier this year included:
- General laborer
- Sales representative
- Accountant
- Engineering project manager
- Business analyst
- Customer service representative
- IT project manager
- Account manager
- Software engineer
- Forklift operators
In Ontario, the minimum wage is 14.00 CAD per hour, though this can vary depending on the type of work, such as for students, domestic workers, or those working in places that serve alcohol.
Toronto’s job market is promising, but it’s also competitive, so it’s important to be prepared before diving in.
How To Get A Job In Toronto in 7 Simple Steps
- Ensure you’re eligible to work in Canada: Toronto is known for being welcoming to immigrants, and getting a visa in Canada is generally easier than in many European countries. Many applicants can use the Express Entry system, which has fewer restrictions. Use the CRS calculator to check your eligibility for Express Entry. More information is available on Canada’s immigration services website.
- Consider the types of available jobs: As the financial center of Canada, Toronto has numerous opportunities in finance, media, technology, and tourism. The city also has a vibrant startup scene. Knowing the main industries in Toronto can help you decide if it’s the right place for you. As you begin your job search, consider how prevalent your industry is in the area.
- Look online: Many job search sites in Toronto are similar to those in the U.S. The internet offers a wide range of opportunities across different sectors and is often the best place to start your search. Some popular job search websites in Toronto include:
- Toronto Jobs
- Workopolis
- Career Builder
- Eluta
- Hot Jobs in Canada Additionally, check major sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, and Simply Hired.
- Find a recruiter: While online searches are useful, recruiters can offer more personalized job search assistance. Agencies can help with your cover letter, resume, interview preparation, and even provide insights into companies. Some reputable Toronto recruiters include:
- Apex Life Sciences
- The Judge Group
- Procom
- Aquent
- Vitamin T
- The Select Group
- Do some networking: Networking is essential in any job search, especially in Toronto. If possible, visit the city before or during your job search and attend professional events to give yourself an edge. Consider events organized by The Hip Haus for networking with young professionals, or check out networking events on forums like Kijiji, Eventbrite’s Toronto Gatherings, and Toronto Eventful’s meetings. You can also join groups like Ellevate Network or attend Toronto Business Casual events.
- Keep your CV up to date: With so many professionals competing for jobs in Toronto, having a standout CV is crucial. Regularly update it to reflect your most recent achievements and skills.
- Apply for a Canadian work visa: The Canadian Department of Immigration makes it relatively easy to apply for a work visa online. Make sure you have scanned copies of all necessary documents. Even if you’re a native English speaker, you’ll need to take a formal language exam, like CELPIP or IELTS, to qualify for Express Entry or a Skilled Immigrant visa.
Where Do I Find Job Postings in Ontario?
Before you apply for a work visa, reach out to companies in your industry to ask about any open positions. Improve your networking skills and build strong professional connections with potential employers. Let them know you’re planning to move to Canada and are excited about the opportunities there.
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Some of the main job boards to consider include:
- JobBank: Canada’s official job board, which offers detailed job requirements, outlooks, and trends.
- Indeed: Popular in Toronto and globally, with many new job postings each week.
- Monster: Offers career advice, tools, and a platform where you can post your CV.
Other sites worth checking out include Toronto Jobs, Workopolis, Eluta, and Hot Jobs in Canada.
Community Organizations And Social Services
Connecting with community organizations and social services based in Toronto can help you narrow down your job search. These groups often host workshops that discuss the labor market and life in Toronto, providing valuable opportunities to meet other professionals.
Career Cards
The Ontario government, along with regulatory agencies, developed career cards to assist internationally trained workers. These cards provide information about the registration process, language requirements, labor market conditions, and more. For more details, visit the Ontario Immigration website.
Consortium of Agencies Serving Internationally Trained Professionals (CASIP)
CASIP offers language training, workshops, and resources specifically designed for newcomers seeking jobs in Toronto. They cover fields like accounting, finance, sales, engineering, business management, and HR. Along with job-seeking tips, you’ll also gain networking opportunities.
Conclusion
Consider this guide as a quick overview of how to find work in Toronto. In short, make sure you understand the immigration requirements, get familiar with the labor market, and polish your resume. Once you’ve done that, start your job search using the platforms and networking strategies mentioned above.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to speak both English and French to work in Toronto?
A: English is the main language spoken in Toronto, but knowing French can be a plus, especially in certain industries. However, it’s not required for most jobs.
Q: How can I improve my chances of getting a job in Toronto if I don’t have Canadian work experience?
A: Start by taking on short-term or entry-level positions to gain some local experience. Volunteering can also help build your resume and expand your network.
Q: Are there specific job boards for newcomers to Canada?
A: Yes, websites like JobBank and community organizations often have resources tailored for newcomers, including job postings and career advice.
Hope this guide helps you navigate the job market in Toronto and land a high-paying job!
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