International Students: Bring Your Loved Ones with You to Canada

English: Confederation Building, St. John's, Newfoundland (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Close to 100,000 international students from all over the world come to Canada each year to obtain a high-quality post-secondary education. Canada’s generous immigration policy allows the spouse and minor children of international students to accompany them to Canada to work and study. In this way, a student’s entire close family can benefit from a Canadian experience.Spouse or Common-Law Partner

The spouse or common-law partner of an international student may apply for an open work permit. The student must be studying full-time at:

A public post-secondary institution; or
A private post-secondary institution that operates under the same rules and regulations as a public institution and receives half of its overall operations budget from government grants; or
A private institution authorized by provincial statute to confer degrees.

An open work permit allows the holder to work for any employer in Canada, and does not require a Labour Market Opinion or job offer. The work permit will usually have the same period of validity as the study permit. However, the open work permit may exclude certain occupations in which the protection of public health is essential, unless the applicant undergoes an immigration medical examination.

In this way, not only can the spouses or partners of international students gain valuable Canadian work experience, but also can help support their families financially.

Minor Children

Any person under the age of majority is considered to be a minor child. The age of majority varies by province. In Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, the age of majority is 18, while in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut and Yukon it is 19.

Minor children who are already in Canada with at least one parent who is allowed to work or study in Canada do not require a study permit to attend school at the pre-school, primary, or secondary levels. However, once the child reaches the age of majority in their province, he or she must apply for a study permit to continue their studies in Canada.

The Application Process

An international student may bring his or her dependents to Canada by one of two routes.

One possible route is for the student and dependent family members to submit their visa applications concurrently. Another option is for the student to wait until he/she has received a study permit, and then submit applications for his or her accompanying dependents.

When applying for a study permit, information must be provided for all family members that will be accompanying the student to Canada. In order for their application to be approved, the student and his or her family will have to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support their stay in Canada. In addition, applicants may be required to undergo a medical examination and submit Police Clearance Certificates.

Depending on the applicants’ country of citizenship, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) may be required in addition to any study or work permits. A full list of countries requiring a TRV to enter Canada can be found here.

A spouse or common-law partner who plans to work while in Canada has the option to apply for his or her Open Work Permit before entering the country, upon arrival to Canada, or after entering the country.

Oftentimes, minor children entering Canada may receive a visitor record, even if the child will be studying in Canada. This is because minor children in Canada may study at the pre-school, primary or secondary levels without needing to secure a study permit.

The Final Word

Canada’s commitment to family unification means that international students and their families have the opportunity to experience Canadian life together. Whether it is for a few months or for several years, international students will be comforted to know that their loved ones can be nearby as they pursue their dreams of obtaining a Canadian education.

“Canada is home to some of the most distinguished colleges and universities in the world,” said Attorney David Cohen. “Aside from putting money into the Canadian economy while studying, many international students remain in Canada after graduation and become valuable members of our workforce and general society. It is only natural that the Canadian Government has established generous laws that allow them to stay close to their families and feel welcome in their new home.”

Quebec plans to take in less immigrants

Immigrants selon le pays de naissance, Québec, 2001-2005 / Immigrants by country of origin, Québec, 2001-2005 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

quebec-plans-take-less-immigrants

Receiving an Engineering License in Canada – the Process

P1090020 (Photo credit: d.molo)

Canada is looking for engineers of all kinds to help power its booming economy. These skilled workers, with expertise in a variety of disciplines, have knowledge that is vital to the operation of many public and private organizations.Engineers currently have a range of immigration options available to them, including the popular Federal Skilled Worker and Quebec Skilled Worker programs. Once in Canada, they can enjoy a welcoming labour market, high salaries, and an exceptional quality of life. However, an engineer cannot formally practice under the title Professional Engineer unless he/she has received the necessary licensing to do so by their chosen Canadian province or territory.

Engineering Regulations

Engineering is a regulated profession in Canada. Therefore, it is illegal to practice under the title of Professional Engineer (P. Eng.) without being properly licensed. However, an individual can work in the engineering field without a license provided he/she is supervised by a licensed engineer.

Regulation of engineering licenses is maintained by individual provinces and territories. One does not have to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in order to apply for a license to work in Canada. Prospective immigrants should make sure to apply for licensing in the province where they intend to settle and work upon arrival to Canada.

A list of the provincial and territorial bodies that regulate engineering certification can be found at the bottom of this article.

Each association offers two kinds of memberships: Engineer-in-Training and Professional Engineer. An Engineer-in-Training membership indicates that all academic requirements for a Professional Engineer license have been required, and that the applicant is in the process of completing additional requirements. A Professional Engineer license indicates that all outstanding requirements for membership have been completed, and allows an individual to practice engineering in their field and to use the title P. Eng after their name.

Applying for Professional Engineer Certification

The process of receiving the Professional Engineer certification can take over a year. Application details, as well as specific document requirements, vary from province to province. However, all successful applications must satisfy requirements in the following five fields:

Academic Assessment;
Work Experience and References Assessment;
Language Competency Assessment;
Character Assessment ; and
Professional Practice Examination

Academic Assessment – All engineers must obtain a minimum level of education. This generally equates to at least a 4 year undergraduate degree in an engineering discipline or its equivalent. Holders of foreign academic credentials must have their credentials evaluated and given Canadian equivalency.

The provincial or territorial body to which an individual is applying may additionally require him/her to write examinations in any number of the following categories:

Basic studies examinations – testing ability in math, basic science, and engineering
Complementary studies examinations – testing knowledge of applied engineering
Discipline-specific examinations – testing knowledge in engineering science and design

Work Experience and References Assessment – A minimum of 4 years of work experience in an engineering discipline is required to receive licensing in Canada (except Quebec). This includes at least 1 year of supervised work experience in Canada.

It is important to note that it is not required to wait to submit an application until 1 year of Canadian experience has been obtained. Other memberships may be granted in the meantime, and additional steps like the Academic Assessment can be completed while the 1 year of Canadian work experience is in progress.

Language Competency Assessment – Engineers must demonstrate their ability to communicate in either English or French. Many prospective immigrants will already have documents that attest to their language abilities, as this is required by many immigration programs. However, they should check with their specific provincial engineering licensing body, as additional evidence may be required.

Character Assessment – A list of character references must be provided. These references must include Professional Engineers, at least one of whom is licensed to practice in Canada. All must be willing to attest to an applicant’s honesty, integrity, and general good character.

Professional Practice Examination – All Professional Engineer applicants must pass this examination. In order to take the exam, an application for licensing must be in process. The exam is held twice a year. There is often an option, depending on the province or territory to which one is applying, to take the exam while overseas.

Study guides are available through provincial licensing bodies.

In Conclusion

Canada has taken steps to make the Professional Engineering licensing process available to individuals both in Canada and abroad.

“Provinces and territories have many resources in place to help foreign-trained engineers obtain the certification they need to practice in Canada,” said Attorney David Cohen. “This highlights the fact that Canada is in need of these talented professionals, and that we are truly willing to go above and beyond so that they choose our country as their new home.”

Prospective immigrants with backgrounds in engineering are encouraged to begin their research and application process early so as to take advantage of the generous support Canada offers its future Professional Engineers.

To find out if you are eligible for one of over 60 Canadian immigration programs, please fill out afree online assessment today.

List of National, Provincial and Territorial Engineering Associations:

Engineers Canada (National Body)

Foreign Credential Recognition Program
180 Elgin Street, Suite 1100
Ottawa ON K2P 2K3 Canada
Phone : 613-232-2474
Phone (alternate): 1-877-408-9273
Fax : 613-230-5759
Email : newcomers@engineerscanada.ca
http://www.engineerscanada.ca/e/

Alberta - Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA)

1500 Scotia One, 10060 Jasper Avenue NW
Edmonton AB T5J 4A2 Canada
Phone : 780-426-3990
Phone (alternate): 1-800-661-7020
Fax : 780-426-1877
Email : email@apegga.org
http://www.apega.ca/

British Columbia - Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC)

Suite 200, 4010 Regent Street
Burnaby BC V5C 6N2 Canada
Phone : 604-430-8035
Phone (alternate): 1-888-430-8035
Fax : 604-430-8085
Email : apeginfo@apeg.bc.ca
http://www.apeg.bc.ca/

Manitoba - Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Manitoba (APEGM)

870 Pembina Highway
Winnipeg MB R3M 2M7 Canada
Phone : 204-474-2736
Phone (alternate): 1 (866) 227-9600
Fax : 204-474-5960
Email : apegm@apegm.mb.ca
http://www.apegm.mb.ca/

New Brunswick - Engineers and Geoscientists New Brunswick

183 Hanwell Road
Fredericton NB E3B 2R2 Canada
Phone : 506-458-8083
Phone (alternate): 1-888-458-8083
Fax : 506-451-9629
Email : info@apegnb.com
http://www.apegnb.com/

Newfoundland and Labrador - Professional Engineers and Geoscientists Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL)

P.O. Box 21207
10 Fort William Place, Suite 203
St. John’s NL A1A 5B2 Canada
Phone : 709-753-7714
Fax : 709-753-6131
Email : main@pegnl.ca
http://www.pegnl.ca/

Northwest Territories – Northwest Territories and Nunavut Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists

201, 4817-49th Street
Yellowknife NT X1A 3S7 Canada
Phone : 867-920-4055
Fax : 867-873-4058
Email : napeg@napeg.nt.ca
http://www.napeg.nt.ca/

Nova Scotia – Engineers Nova Scotia

1355 Barrington Street, P.O. Box 129
Halifax NS B3J 2M4 Canada
Phone : 902-429-2250
Phone (alternate): 1-888-802-7367
Fax : 902-423-9769
Email : info@engineersnovascotia.ca
http://www.engineersnovascotia.ca

Nunavut - Northwest Territories and Nunavut Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists

201, 4817-49th Street
Yellowknife NT X1A 3S7 Canada
Phone : 867-920-4055
Fax : 867-873-4058
Email : napeg@napeg.nt.ca
http://www.napeg.nt.ca/

Ontario - Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO)

40 Sheppard Avenue West, Suite 101
Toronto ON M2N 6K9 Canada
Phone : 416-224-1100
Phone (alternate): 1-800-339-3716
Fax : 416-224-8168
Fax (alternate): 1-800-268-0496
Email : MSaldanha@peo.on
http://www.peo.on.ca/

Prince Edward Island – Engineers PEI

135 Water Street
Charlottetown PE C1A 1A8 Canada
Phone : 902-566-1268
Fax : 902-566-5551
Email : info@EngineersPEI.com
http://www.engineerspei.com/

Quebec - Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ)

Gare Windsor, bureau 350
1100, avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal
Montréal QC H3B 2S2 Canada
Phone : 514-845-6141
Phone (alternate): 1-800-461-6141
Fax : 514-845-1833
Email : info@oiq.qc.ca
http://www.oiq.qc.ca/

Saskatchewan – Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS)

2255-13th Avenue, Suite 104
Regina SK S4P 0V6 Canada
Phone : 306-525-9547
Phone (alternate): 1-800-500-9547
Fax : 306-525-0851
Email : apegs@apegs.sk.ca
http://www.apegs.sk.ca/

Yukon – Association of Professional Engineers of Yukon (APEY)

312B Hanson Street
Whitehorse YT Y1A 1Y6 Canada
Phone : 867-667-6727
Fax : 867-668-2142
Email : staff@apey.yk.ca
http://www.apey.yk.ca/

Canada's Top 100 Employers 2014

English: Monument to aboriginal war veterans in Confederation Park, Ottawa, Canada. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

3M Canada Company
Other Manufacturing
3M Canada Company is a technology company that manufactures and markets consumer and industrial products. Encourages ongoing employee development through subsidies for tuition and professional accreditation, career planning services, formal mentoring and in-house and online training programs.

Aboriginal Peoples
Television Network Inc.
Television Broadcasting
Aboriginal Peoples Television Network Inc. (APTN) is a national Aboriginal television network with programming by, for and about Aboriginal Peoples. Helps employees prepare for the future with contributions to a defined contribution pension and matching RSP contributions.

Accenture Inc.
Custom Computer
Programming Services
Accenture Inc. is a leading international management consulting, technology services and outsourcing firm. Offers a very generous in-vitro fertilization (IVF) subsidy to employees requiring treatments, to a maximum of $15,000.

Aecon Group Inc.
Commercial and Institutional
Building Construction
Aecon Group Inc. is a construction and infrastructure development company that provides design, build, operation, procurement and financial services in building, civil, industrial, nuclear and utility construction. Manages an academic scholarship program for children of employees who are pursuing post-secondary studies in Canada (to $2,500 per child).

Agriculture Financial Services
Corporation / AFSC
All Other Nondepository
Credit Intermediation
Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) is a Crown corporation that provides agrifoods producers in Alberta with business loans, crop insurance, and farm income disaster assistance. Hosts an internal “green week” to encourage employees to reduce their carbon footprint - events include environmentally themed “lunch and learn” sessions and participation in community-organized events.

Agrium Inc.
Nitrogenous Fertilizer Manufacturing
Agrium Inc. is a North and South American retail supplier and wholesale producer of agricultural products and specialty fertilizers. Manages an academic scholarship program for children of employees who are interested in pursuing post-secondary education (to $1,600 per child).

Air Canada
Scheduled Passenger
Air Transportation
Air Canada provides scheduled and charter air transportation services across Canada and to destinations worldwide. Recognizes and encourages employee volunteers through the Volunteer Involvement Program - donating airline tickets to charitable organizations where employees volunteer.

Alberta-Pacific Forest Industries Inc.
Pulp Mills
Alberta-Pacific Forest Industries Inc. (Al-Pac) is a producer of kraft pulp used in the manufacturing of a variety of paper products. Head office features unique onsite amenities including baseball diamonds, golf driving range, beach volleyball court, horseshoe pitch, walking trails and a 40-acre stocked trout pond, fully-equipped fitness facility with free memberships, and employee lounge with outdoor patio and picnic tables.

Bank of Canada
Monetary Authority/CentralBank
The Bank of Canada is the federal Crown corporation responsible for regulating and overseeing Canada's monetary policies. Encourages employee volunteerism by providing paid time off to volunteer at local charitable organizations.

Bayer Canada
Pharmaceutical Preparation
Manufacturing
Bayer Canada is a research-based company with core businesses in the healthcare, crop science and innovative materials. Is an avid supporter of continued employee development and offers generous tuition subsidies for courses taken at outside institutions (to a maximum of $7,000).

BC Public Service
Provincial Government
BC Public Service is British Columbia's largest employer, with close to 30,000 employees working in 280 communities around the province. New parents also have the option to extend their leave into an unpaid leave of absence and upon their return, can take advantage of onsite daycare centres.

BDC / Business Development
Bank of Canada
Secondary Market Financing
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is a federal Crown corporation that provides financing and consulting services for small and medium-sized businesses. Invests in ongoing employee education with subsidies for tuition and professional accreditation and an impressive in-house training program.

Bennett Jones LLP
Offices of Lawyers
Established in 1922, Bennett Jones LLP is a Canadian law firm that specializes in mergers, acquisitions, corporate finance, bankruptcy, intellectual property, trade law, and public policy. Maintains a busy social calendar for employees, including a ski trip for legal personnel.

Cameco Corporation
Uranium-Radium-Vanadium
Ore Mining
Cameco Corporation is a producer of uranium that provides uranium processing services to nuclear power plants. An avid supporter of ongoing employee education and provides a variety of in-house and online training programs, including apprenticeship opportunities, and offers subsidies for tuition and professional education.

Canadian National
Railway Company / CN
Line-Haul Railroads
CN is a full-service transportation company, providing rail, intermodal, trucking, freight forwarding, warehousing and distribution services. Head office employees may take advantage of a variety of onsite amenities including a quiet room for meditation or religious observance, fitness facility and cafeteria, featuring healthy and special diet menus.

Canadian Security Intelligence Service
National Security
Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) is a government agency dedicated to protecting the national security interests of Canada and safeguarding Canadian citizens. Hosts an annual professional development day to provide employees with opportunities to explore various career opportunities within the service.

Cape Breton District Health
Authority / CBDHA
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
The CBDHA is a provider of acute care, continuing care, programs and services through hospitals, clinics and continuing care facilities located across Cape Breton County, Northern and Central Inverness County and Victoria County. Encourages employees to achieve work-life balance through alternative work options including flexible hours, telecommuting and reduced summer hours.

Carswell, a division of Thomson
Reuters Canada Limited
Book Publishers
Carswell, a division of Thomson Reuters Canada Limited, is a publisher of specialized information for lawyers, academics, financial executives, accountants and human resource professionals. Offers a generous subsidy to help cover the costs of adoption, to $5,000 per child.

Catholic Children's Aid Society
of Toronto
Child and Youth Services
Founded in 1894, Catholic Children's Aid Society of Toronto is a child welfare agency that provides community support and protection services to abused and neglected children. Supports the professional development of employees through formal mentoring, management training and career planning services.

Cementation Canada Inc.
Other Heavy and
Civil Engineering Construction
Cementation Canada Inc. is a underground mine contracting and engineering company that provides mine development and production services. Helps employees to stay fit with organized sports teams and access to an onsite fitness facility.

Ceridian Canada Ltd.
Payroll Services
Ceridian Canada Ltd. provides payroll, human resources, employee assistance, recruiting, and management services to organizations across Canada. Supports its pet parents with a five percent discount on pet health insurance premiums.

CIBC
Commercial Banking
CIBC / Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce is a leading financial institution that provides a range of financial products and services through its extensive branch and electronic banking networks. Provides maternity leave top-up payments to employees who are new mothers (to 100% of salary for 6 weeks) and offers a subsidy for in vitro fertilization (IVF) when needed.

College of Physicians and Surgeons
of British Columbia
Professional Organizations
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia is the self-regulating governing body for the province's medical profession. Employees receive free memberships to the onsite Hotel Georgia’s fitness centre, complete with a 52-foot lap pool, sauna and spa facilities.

ConocoPhillips Canada
Crude Petroleum and
Natural Gas Extraction
ConocoPhillips Canada is an oil and natural gas production and exploration company. Supports employees who are new mothers with maternity leave top-up payments (to 100% of salary for 8 weeks) as well as a subsidy for in vitro fertilization (IVF) when needed.

Dalhousie University
Colleges and Universities
Dalhousie University is a leading post-secondary academic institution serving over 16,500 full- and part-time students. Encourages ongoing employee development with free tuition for employees (up to two credits each year) and generous tuition subsidies for employees’ immediate family members.

Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada
New Car Dealers
Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada is the exclusive Canadian distributor for Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles, parts and accessories, branded products and related services. Encourages employees to volunteer in the broader community by providing time-off for volunteer activities and matching donations to employees’ favourite charities.

Deloitte LLP
Offices of Certified Public Accountants
Deloitte LLP is a professional services firm that provides accounting and auditing, tax and management consulting services throughout the country. Employees can apply for extended work terms at Deloitte LLP offices worldwide (to 2 years) or take advantage of shorter work-exchange opportunities at offices in Australia, New Zealand, India and South America.

Department of Finance Canada
Administration of General Economic Programs
The Department of Finance Canada (Finance Canada) is responsible for the development of financial policies and provides advice and consultation to the Federal Government. Offers a pre-retirement transition leave option for employees within two years of retirement -- participants can reduce their work week but maintain regular health benefits and pension contributions.

Desjardins Group /
Mouvement des caisses Desjardins
Credit Unions
Desjardins Group / Mouvement des caisses Desjardins is the largest cooperative financial group in Canada, serving over 5.8 million members and clients, including over 400,000 businesses across Canada. Supports alternative transportation through a car-pool sign-up system, provides showers and change rooms for its bicycle commuters.

DIALOG
Architectural Services
DIALOG is a multidisciplinary firm comprised of architects, engineers, interior designers, urban designers and planners. Celebrates long-serving employees every five years with uniquely tailored gifts made from materials featured in their past projects.

Diavik Diamond Mines Inc.
All Other Nonmetallic Mineral Mining
Diavik Diamond Mines Inc. (DDMI) operates the the Diavik Diamond Mine, which is located 300 km northeast of Yellowknife. In addition to a unique employee discount on diamond purchases, the company also offers employee purchase program for everything from automobiles to home computers to air travel tickets.

EllisDon Corporation
Commercial and Institutional
Building Construction
EllisDon Corporation is a general contracting, construction and project management firm. The company owns and operates the “Windjammer Landing Resort” in St. Lucia and offers discounted accommodation packages to employees, family and friends.

Enbridge Inc.
Natural Gas Distribution
Enbridge Inc. is a provider of natural gas distribution, pipelines and energy-related services across North America. Helps employees achieve work-life balance through flexible hours, telecommuting and shortened and compressed work week options.

ERM Rescan
Environmental Consulting Services
ERM Rescan, formerly Rescan Environmental Services Ltd., is an environmental consulting firm that provides a range of environmental and technical services to the resource development industry. Operates an employee-led “Green Ideas Committee” and supports numerous events every year, including the annual “Bike-to-Work Week” and “Commuter Challenge” events.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Hotels
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is North America's largest operator of luxury hotels and resorts. Literally wrote the book on how to make its industry green -- the “Green Partnership Guide” is now in its third edition.

General Electric Canada
Motor and Generator Manufacturing
General Electric Canada is an advanced technology, services, and finance company. Employees receive paid time-off to volunteer in their communities and employees help direct the company’s many charitable initiatives.

General Motors of Canada Limited
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing
General Motors of Canada Limited (GM Canada) is one the largest manufacturers of automobiles in Canada. Employees can spend more time with their loved ones over the winter with a paid week off during the holiday season.

Georgian College
Colleges and Universities
Georgian College is a post-secondary community college with an enrollment of over 10,000 full-time students. An environmental leader the College recently opened a new “Health and Wellness” building that incorporates a variety of environmental technologies.

Golder Associates Ltd.
Engineering Services
Golder Associates Ltd. is a consulting engineering firm, providing civil engineering and environmental services to clients worldwide. The firm manages an international employee exchange program that allows employees to work at company locations around the world.

Great Little Box Company Ltd.
Corrugated and Solid Fiber Box Manufacturing
The Great Little Box Company Ltd. (GLBC) manufactures custom and stock corrugated boxes, point-of-purchase displays, folding cartons, labels, and flexible and protective packaging. Offers a fully equipped onsite fitness, outdoor sand volleyball court, book exchange library, outdoor gazebo and rooftop deck, and even a dock for employees who wishing to commute by kayak to Mitchell Island.

Hospital for Sick Children, The
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
The Hospital for Sick Children (“SickKids”) is a teaching and research-intensive hospital dedicated exclusively to improving children's health. The downtown location features an impressive glass atrium with its own “main street” that includes a water fountain, glassed-in elevators, suspended walkways as well as a variety of restaurants and cafés.

HP Advanced Solutions Inc.
Computer Systems Design Services
HP Advanced Solutions Inc., a subsidiary of HP Canada, is an information and technology outsourcing company. Supports an employee-led “Sustainability Community” that manages an in-house green action plan.

ISM Canada
Custom Computer Programming Services
ISM Canada, a wholly-owned subsidiary of IBM Canada Ltd., is an information technology services company, which services private and public sector organizations. Employees can also take advantage of weekly 15 minute “coffee break massages” and receive a tension relieving massage at their desks.

Ivanhoé Cambridge Inc.
Lessors of Nonresidential Buildings
Ivanhoé Cambridge Inc. is one of the largest real estate management companies in the world and manages, invests and develops commercial retail spaces. Encourages employees to volunteer through the unique “Give and Take Days” program - employees receive two paid days off each year as long as one is dedicated for volunteer work.

Knight Piésold Ltd.
Engineering Services
Knight Piésold Ltd., a part of the Knight Piésold Consulting Group, is an environmental and engineering consulting company that provides mining, environmental, water resource, road and construction services. Supports employees who are new mothers, fathers or adoptive parents with maternity and parental leave top-up payments.

KPMG LLP
Offices of Certified Public Accountants
KPMG LLP is a leading accounting and professional services firm, providing auditing, tax and financial advisory services to businesses across Canada. Employees from all levels have the opportunity to travel abroad and participate in the organization’s development work as part of the KPMG’s partnership with Free The Children.

L'Oréal Canada Inc.
Cosmetic Manufacturing
L'Oréal Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Paris-based L'Oréal Group, is a manufacturer of cosmetics and personal care products. Subsidies for tuition and professional accreditation and opportunities for international training in Paris and New York.

Labatt Breweries of Canada
Breweries
Labatt Breweries of Canada, a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev, is the operator of eight breweries in Canada. Head office employees can take advantage of a variety of onsite amenities including a nap room for employees who need a quick rest, fitness facility and employee lounge stocked with video games, pool table, foosball and board games.

Loblaw Companies Limited
Supermarkets and
Other Grocery Stores
Founded in 1919, Loblaw Companies Limited is a retailer of food, as well as a provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Unique head office which features a herb garden and Test Kitchen where new food products are created, quiet room for meditation and prayer, PC banking ATM, and an onsite market-style cafeteria.

Lundbeck Canada Inc.
Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities
Lundbeck Canada Inc. is an international pharmaceutical company that specializes in the research and development of drugs for the treatment of psychiatric and neurological illnesses. Generous referral bonuses for employees who refer a candidate that is successfully hired by the company (to $2,000).

Manitoba Hydro
Hydroelectric Power Generation
Manitoba Hydro is the province's energy utility, that generates and exports electricity to wholesale markets in Canada and the mid-western United States. Active since the 1950’s, the company’s social committee organizes numerous fun events every year and helps to manage a number of sports leagues.

Manulife Financial Corporation
Direct Life Insurance Carriers
Manulife Financial Corporation provides insurance and investment management services to clients worldwide. Is located amidst a beautiful seven-acre garden oasis in the heart of downtown Toronto.

Mars Canada Inc.
Confectionery and
Food Manufacturing
Mars Canada Inc. is a manufacturer of food, confectionery and pet care products. Maintains a pet-friendly policy and even has a doggie courtyard when employees bring their dog to work.

McCarthy Tétrault LLP
Offices of Lawyers
McCarthy Tétrault LLP is a Canadian law firm that delivers business law, litigation services, tax law, real property law, labour and employment law nationally and globally. Provides maternity leave top-up payments to employees who are new mothers and offers a generous subsidy for in vitro fertilization (IVF) when needed.

Medtronic of Canada Ltd.
Electromedical and Electrotherapeutic Apparatus Manufacturing
Medtronic of Canada Ltd., a division of Minneapolis based Medtronic, Inc., develops medical devices and provides services for individuals suffering from chronic illness. The company’s new LEED certified head office features many environmentally-friendly features, including a non-toxic VOC-free interior, photo-cell daylight harvesting system and a reflective ‘white’ roof to help reduce air-conditioning needs.

Merck Canada Inc.
Pharmaceutical Preparation
Manufacturing
Merck Canada Inc. is a research-based Canadian pharmaceutical company. Manages an academic scholarship program for children of employees who are interested in pursuing post-secondary education (to $2,000).

Monsanto Canada Inc.
Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering and Life Sciences
Monsanto Canada Inc., a division of the St. Louis, Missouri-based Monsanto Company, is an agricultural biotechnology company that produces seed brands for crops like corn, cotton, oilseeds (soybeans and canola) and vegetables. Located in the University of Manitoba’s unique SmartPark alongside other research and technology companies, offering employees convenient access to the university’s many amenities.

Mosaic Company, The
Nitrogenous Fertilizer Manufacturing
The Mosaic Company is a producer and marketer of concentrated phosphate and potash to wholesalers, retail dealers and individual growers. Encourages employees to save for the future with matching RSP contributions or a defined contribution pension plan.

Mountain Equipment Co-op
Sporting Goods Stores
Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) is a specialized co-op retailer of gear for wilderness and self-propelled recreation activities, with retail stores located in major cities across Canada. Helps employees balance their work and personal life with a variety of alternative work arrangements including flexible hours, telecommuting, shortened and compressed work week options and a formal earned days off program.

National Ballet of Canada, The
Dance Companies
The National Ballet of Canada is a provider of contemporary and classical ballets, as well as dance programs for families and youth. Work with Ryerson University to manage an on-site degree program that is specifically designed for dancers.

National Energy Board
Regulation and Administration of Electric Gas and Other Utilities
The National Energy Board (NEB) is an independent federal government agency responsible for the regulation of oil, gas, and electric utility industries. Exceptional parental leave top-up for new fathers and adoptive parents.

Nuance Communications
Canada Inc.
Software Publishers
Nuance Communications Canada Inc. is a provider of diction, voice processing, voice response, messaging, records management, imaging and recording equipment. Encourages employees to keep their skills sharp with tuition subsidies as well as a variety of online training programs through its in-house “Nuance University”.

OpenText Corporation
Custom Computer Programming Services
OpenText Corporation is a software development company, specializing in enterprise content management software for all types of businesses as well as public sector clients worldwide. Offers great financial rewards including signing bonuses for some positions, referral bonuses and a share purchase plan available to all employees.

Ottawa, City of
Municipal Government
The City of Ottawa provides municipal government services to residents and businesses in the nation's capital. Helps employees achieve work-life balance through a variety of alternative work arrangements.

PCL Constructors Inc.
Commercial and Institutional Building Construction
PCL Constructors Inc. is a commercial, institutional, industrial, and civil construction company. Head office employees can take advantage of a variety of onsite amenities including a quiet room for meditation and religious observance, employee lounge with fireplace, and free access to an onsite fitness facility.

PepsiCo Canada
Soft Drink Manufacturing
PepsiCo Canada is a food and beverage manufacturer that is comprised of two business units, PepsiCo Beverages Canada and PepsiCo Foods Canada. Manages a very generous academic scholarship for children of employees who pursue post-secondary education, to $10,000 per child.

Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc.
Nitrogenous Fertilizer Manufacturing
Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. is a producer of nitrogen, phosphate and potash fertilizers that are widely used in agricultural production. Is committed to ongoing employee education and provides subsidies for tuition and professional accreditation.

Procter & Gamble Inc.
Toiletry Product Manufacturing
Procter & Gamble Inc. (P&G Inc.) is a leading manufacturer and marketer of a wide range of consumer products. Head office features new “digital workspaces” that offer no assigned desks (including for the President) but open concept collaborative workspaces.

Provincial Health Services
Authority / PHSA
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
The Provincial Health Services Authority manages and evaluates healthcare services in the province of British Columbia, operating organizations that include the BC Cancer Agency, the BC Centre for Disease Control and the BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre. Head office employees can stay in shape by taking advantage of the onsite fitness facility at subsidized cost, complete with instructor-led classes for yoga and pilates.

RBC
Commercial Banking
RBC / Royal Bank of Canada is the country's largest financial services group with over 79,000 full- and part-time employees serving more than 15 million personal, business, public sector and institutional clients across Canada, the United States and 49 other countries. The bank and its employees support a variety of charitable organizations across the country each year, and even offers matching grants (up to $500) to employees and retirees who volunteer for 40 or more hours annually.

Rogers Communications Inc.
Cable and Other Subscription Programming
Rogers Communications Inc. is one of Canada's largest integrated communications companies, with significant cable television, Internet, wireless and wireline telephone, radio, television and publishing businesses across the country. Employees receive generous discounts on a wide range of company products, from cell phones to digital television to Toronto Blue Jays baseball tickets.

Saskatchewan Government Insurance / SGI
Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Carriers
Saskatchewan Government Insurance / SGI is a provider of property and casualty insurance products and services. Offers compassionate leave top-up payments to employees who are called upon to care for a family member.

SaskTel
Telecommunications
SaskTel is a provider of a complete range of communications services to residential and business customers. Every spring for the past 26 years, employees from across the province gather at a Saskatchwan rink for a friendly but competitive hockey tournament.

Shell Canada Limited
Crude Petroleum and
Natural Gas Extraction
Shell Canada Limited is an integrated petroleum company that develops and retails petroleum products. A great community citizen that ranks among Canada’s leading corporate donors, supporting approximately 800 charitable initiatives last year and providing employees with up to three paid days off each year to volunteer with their favourite charities.

Siemens Canada Limited
Engineering Services
Siemens Canada Limited is a subsidiary of Germany-based Siemens AG, which is one of the largest and most diversified electronics and electrical engineering companies in the world, serving the industry, energy and healthcare sectors. Operates an employee suggestion program that encourages employees to share their feedback the ideas that lead to savings or new revenues are evaluated for their impact and can lead to financial bonus payments ranging up to $100,000.

Simon Fraser University
Colleges and Universities
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a major Canadian university, that offers more than 100 programs to over 30,000 students at three campus locations. In addition, offers new urbanist living options as part of the UniverCity development project, which surrounds the campus and is one of the most innovative and progressive urban development projects in North America.

Solvera Solutions
Custom Computer
Programming Services
Solvera Solutions is an information technology and business consulting firm in western Canada. Lets everyone share in the company’s success with profit-sharing and year-end bonuses available to all employees.

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton is a multi-site teaching hospital and academic health science centre with more than 4,000 full- and part-time employees. Recently launched a new “Leadership Development Program for its Directors and Physician Leaders in partnership with McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business.

Stryker Canada Inc.
Medical, Dental and Hospital
Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers
Stryker Canada Inc. markets and distributes specialty surgical and medical products, including reconstructive, medical and surgical, and neurotechnology and spine products to healthcare providers across the country. Manages a unique training program that pairs top-performing employees with experienced members of the leadership team.

Suncor Energy Inc.
Crude Petroleum and Natural Gas Extraction
Suncor Energy Inc. is an integrated Canadian energy company with oil and gas operations in Canada, the United States, Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Manages an academic scholarship program for children of employees (to $1,800 per child).

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is a leading teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto that operates through three primary hospital sites, including the Bayview Campus (the main site), the Holland Orthopaedic & Arthritic Centre, and the Women & Babies Program (at Women's College Hospital). Offers a unique healthcare workplace experience, situated on nearly 100 acres of ravine parkland in midtown Toronto with plenty of green space for employees to walk, ride a bike or take a break during the day.

Takeda Canada Inc.
Medicinal and Botanical Manufacturing
Takeda Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Japan-based Takeda Chemical Industries, Ltd., is a manufacturer of therapeutic pharmaceuticals. Encourages employees to be active in the community and provides paid time off to volunteer with local charitable organizations.

TD Bank Group
Commercial Banking
TD Bank Group provides financial and banking services to millions of customers across Canada and around the world. Provides excellent financial benefits, including low-interest home loans, year-end bonuses, discounts on banking services and a share purchase plan, letting everyone share in the company’s success.

Technip Canada Limited
Engineering Services
Technip Canada Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Technip Group, is a provider of project management, engineering and construction services for the oil, gas and petrochemical industry. Invests in ongoing employee development with tuition subsidies for job-related courses, subsidies for professional accreditation and a variety of in-house and online training options.

TELUS Corporation
Telecommunications
TELUS Corporation is Canada's second-largest telecommunications company, providing data, Internet, voice and wireless communication services. Encourages employees to work from home through a formal “Work Styles” program that is designed to help employees to easily adopt flexible work arrangements where possible.

Toronto International Film Festival Inc. / TIFF
Motion Picture Promotion and Distribution
Toronto International Film Festival Inc. / TIFF is a non-profit organization devoted to celebrating excellence in film. Offers employees free passes to the Toronto International Film Festival as well as access to film screenings and lectures throughout the year.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. / TMMC
Automobile Manufacturing
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. is a manufacturer of automobiles for the North American market. The surrounding grounds feature walking trails, a baseball diamond, a basketball court, tennis courts, a soccer field as well as a playground for children.

Trican Well Service Ltd.
Support Activities for Oil and Gas Operations
Trican Well Service Ltd. is a pressure pumping company and supplier of specialized products, equipment and technology for oil and gas producers. Helps cultivate an ownership culture with a share purchase plan that is available to all employees and offers additional financial benefits including signing and year-end bonuses for some and referral bonuses for employees who refer a candidate that is successfully hired (to $1,000).

UNB / University of New Brunswick
Colleges and Universities
The University of New Brunswick (UNB) is one of Canada's oldest English-language universities and one of the first public universities established in North America. Encourages employees to balance their work and personal life through a range of alternative work arrangements, including flexible hours, telecommuting, shortened work week option and reduced summer hours.

Union Gas Limited
Natural Gas Distribution
Union Gas Limited is a Canadian natural gas storage, transmission and distribution company. Manages a flexible health benefits plan that allows employees to customize levels of coverage according to their personal needs.

University of Toronto
Colleges and Universities
The University of Toronto is one of Canada's largest research and teaching universities, offering 800 undergraduate fields of study and 400 graduate and professional programs to over 77,000 students. Children of employees may also be eligible for a 100% tuition waiver if attending undergraduate studies at U of T.

Vancouver City Savings Credit Union
Credit Unions
Vancouver City Savings Credit Union (Vancity) is a member-owned co-operative credit union, providing a range of financial products and services to members across the province. Helps employees keep more of their money along the way through a number of great financial benefits, including low-interest home loans as well as no fee bank accounts and credit cards.

Vancouver, City of
Municipal Government
The City of Vancouver provides municipal government services to residents and businesses in one of Canada's largest cities. Encourages employees to support local community organizations by providing paid time off to volunteer with charitable initiatives.

Verafin Inc.
Custom Computer Programming Services
Founded in 2003 Verafin Inc. is a provider of fraud detection and AML software for the financial industry. Part of group of smaller employers that have introduced a flexible “no limit” vacation policy that lets employees decide how much time they need in any given year.

West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd.
Sawmills
West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. is an integrated forest products company that produces lumber, wood chips, fibreboard, plywood, pulp, and newsprint. Manages an academic scholarship program for children of employees who are pursuing post-secondary education in Canada.

Western University
Colleges and Universities
Founded in 1878, Western University (University of Western Ontario) is a post-secondary educational institution, with nearly 23,000 students. Employees and faculty are encouraged to keep fit with subsidized memberships to the impressive 160,000 square-foot recreation centre, the largest of its kind at a Canadian university.

World Vision Canada
Other Social Advocacy Organizations
World Vision is Canada's largest private relief and development agency, sponsoring over half a million children around the world. Manages an internal secondment policy that allows employees to try a new role within the organization for up to six months while holding their original position.

WorleyParsons Canada Services Ltd.
Engineering Services
WorleyParsons Canada Services Ltd. is a provider of engineering, procurement and construction management services. Provides a range of additional financial rewards including signing and year-end bonuses for some and generous referral bonuses for employees who refer a candidate that is successfully hired by the company (to $4,000).

Xerox Canada Inc.
Other Computer Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing
Xerox Canada Inc. is a supplier of document management technology such as printing and publishing systems, digital copiers, laser and solid ink printers and fax machines, and provides support services including in-house production, mailrooms, and online document repositories. An avid supporter of continued employee education and provides generous tuition subsidies for job-related courses (to $5,000), financial bonuses for some course completion and subsidies for professional accreditation.

Yukon, Government of
Provincial/Territorial Government
The Government of Yukon is responsible for delivering public services to residents and business located across the territory. New employees receive four weeks of paid vacation to start, working up to a maximum of eight weeks for long serving employees.