24 STEM Job Categories for Specific Express Entry Selections

Knowing what you can expect to earn is essential for making informed career decisions.

This guide provides some details and median wages for various professions across Canada, categorized by National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes.

Whether you’re an architect, a cybersecurity specialist, or a software developer, understanding wage trends helps you plan your career and negotiate effectively.

This resource offers clear, factual insights into earning potential for some of the most in-demand roles in Canada.

Find out where your career stands and what you can expect in today’s job market.

Median Hourly Wages for In-Demand Professions in Canada

NOC Code: 21200 – Architects

Architects design and plan residential, commercial, and institutional buildings, ensuring compliance with safety, functionality, and aesthetic standards.

They oversee construction or renovation projects, balancing client needs, environmental sustainability, and urban planning requirements.

Canada is a leader in mass timber construction, with architects designing skyscrapers using engineered wood to reduce carbon footprints. Vancouver’s Brock Commons Tallwood House is an example of this innovation.

Many Canadian architects incorporate Indigenous knowledge into sustainable building practices, promoting harmony with the environment.

Passive house standards, which originated in Europe, are gaining traction in Canada to improve energy efficiency in residential and commercial architecture.

NOC Code: 20011 – Architecture and Science Managers

Architecture and science managers oversee teams in scientific research, architecture, and statistics. They manage resources, direct strategic initiatives, and ensure compliance with technical and organizational goals.

In Ontario, the median hourly wage for architecture and science managers is $60.00 according to the Job Bank.

NOC Code: 21221 – Business Systems Specialists

Business systems specialists analyze business needs and develop IT solutions to improve operations. They design, test, and implement systems while aligning them with organizational goals.

Canadian organizations, including government agencies, rely on business systems specialists to modernize services through cloud-based platforms, improving access for remote and rural communities.

With Canada’s emphasis on privacy laws like PIPEDA, specialists often design systems ensuring compliance with stringent data protection requirements.

They play a crucial role in Canada’s booming fintech sector, designing systems for companies like Wealthsimple and Borrowell.

NOC Code: 21300 – Civil Engineers

Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain infrastructure, including roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Their work ensures safety, functionality, and compliance with environmental standards.

Canadian civil engineers are pivotal in designing infrastructure for extreme weather conditions, such as bridges and roads that withstand freezing and thawing cycles.

Landmark projects like the Confederation Bridge, connecting Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick, showcase their ingenuity in tackling environmental challenges.

Engineers are increasingly involved in green infrastructure, such as flood-resistant urban landscapes and renewable energy projects in provinces like Quebec and Alberta.

NOC Code: 20012 – Computer and Information Systems Managers

These managers oversee the planning, development, and operation of IT systems and networks. They ensure that technological resources meet organizational objectives and security standards.

Canada is becoming a leader in AI ethics, and many managers are part of initiatives like the Montreal Declaration for Responsible AI Development.

These professionals manage operations for large Canadian tech hubs, such as Waterloo’s innovation corridor or Vancouver’s thriving tech ecosystem.

Information systems managers in Canada often spearhead cybersecurity defenses for critical industries like banking and healthcare, vital to national security.

NOC Code: 21311 – Computer Engineers (Except Software Engineers and Designers)

Computer engineers design, develop, and maintain computer hardware systems, including networks, circuits, and telecommunications equipment. They integrate these systems to ensure functionality and efficiency.

Computer engineers are driving the 5G rollout across Canada, enabling faster internet and better connectivity, especially in rural regions.

Canadian innovations in quantum computing are making headlines globally, with institutions like the University of Waterloo leading the charge.

Engineers are involved in designing low-power hardware for the extreme temperatures of Canada’s northern regions.

NOC Code: 21230 – Computer Systems Developers and Programmers

Did you know that Assassin’s Creed won the very first Grammy dedicated to a video game soundtrack last year? 🏆

Simon Landry unveils the colossal work behind this historic achievement! 👇https://t.co/87mqic9acA pic.twitter.com/m3b6NJdDyi

— Ubisoft Montréal (@UbisoftMTL) April 24, 2024

These professionals write and test code for software and system applications. They create programs that facilitate efficient data processing and enhance operational capabilities.

Canadian programmers are behind AI tools like the one used by the Canada Revenue Agency for fraud detection and compliance.

Many are part of the growing video game industry in cities like Montreal, contributing to titles like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry.

Programmers are essential for developing apps tailored to Canada’s unique challenges, like forest fire prediction systems and snow removal optimization.

NOC Code: 21220 – Cybersecurity Specialists

Cybersecurity specialists are responsible for designing and implementing measures to protect an organization’s data and systems from cyber threats. They monitor for vulnerabilities, respond to incidents, and ensure compliance with security protocols.

Cybersecurity specialists in Canada are integral to protecting critical infrastructure, including power grids and water systems, from cyber threats.

Canada is investing heavily in cyber defense, with organizations like the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security supporting specialists in their work.

They help companies comply with Canadian privacy laws, which have some of the strictest requirements globally for protecting customer data.

NOC Code: 21211 – Data Scientists

Data scientists use statistical techniques, machine learning, and predictive analytics to extract insights from data. Their work supports strategic decision-making in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and technology.

Data scientists in Canada are using predictive models to improve wildlife conservation, such as tracking endangered species like the caribou.

They’re key players in improving the efficiency of Canadian public services, such as healthcare wait time analysis in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia.

Many are part of smart city projects, analyzing data to improve urban living in cities like Toronto and Montreal.

NOC Code: 21223 – Database Analysts and Data Administrators

Database analysts and data administrators design and manage data management systems. They ensure data integrity, security, and accessibility for organizational use.

Database analysts are crucial for handling data for Canada’s public health systems, ensuring accurate tracking during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

They design systems to manage the vast amount of data generated by Canada’s natural resource industries, including mining and forestry.

With Canada’s focus on open data initiatives, these professionals often help make government data accessible for innovation and research.

NOC Code: 21310 – Electrical and Electronics Engineers

Electrical and electronics engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems and devices. They work on diverse projects, from power generation systems to communication networks and consumer electronics.

Canadian engineers are leading the development of renewable energy grids, particularly in provinces like British Columbia and Ontario.

They’re involved in innovative projects like the hydroelectric systems in Manitoba and the world’s first commercial marine wave power system in Nova Scotia.

Many work on enhancing Canada’s northern power infrastructure, ensuring remote communities have reliable access to electricity.

NOC Code: 20010 – Engineering Managers

Engineering managers oversee the planning, organization, and evaluation of engineering projects. They ensure that projects align with organizational objectives and comply with industry standards.

Engineering managers are crucial in overseeing projects like the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, balancing environmental concerns and infrastructure needs.

They lead teams working on electric vehicle charging networks across Canada, supporting the country’s transition to green energy.

These managers often collaborate with Indigenous communities on infrastructure projects to ensure cultural and environmental respect.

NOC Code: 21321 – Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers

Industrial and manufacturing engineers optimize processes, machinery, and labor to enhance productivity and efficiency in production environments. They work to minimize waste and improve quality.

Industrial engineers are key players in Canada’s aerospace sector, streamlining manufacturing processes for companies like Bombardier.

They help optimize production in Canada’s booming clean technology industry, such as designing processes for solar panel manufacturing.

Engineers are improving efficiency in food production systems, crucial for supporting Canada’s export-driven agriculture industry.

NOC Code: 21222 – Information Systems Specialists

Canada is looking for bilingual, French- and English-speaking skilled workers to help grow the economy and enrich the country’s culture.

Learn how you can come to Canada through Express Entry: https://t.co/Kf9ljjKjDi #FrancophonieMonth #FrCan@OCOLCanada pic.twitter.com/6LMF6Upqgp

— IRCC (@CitImmCanada) March 11, 2024

Information systems specialists develop, implement, and evaluate information systems policies and plans. They ensure that IT systems meet organizational requirements and provide technical advice on system optimization.

Specialists are leading the charge in creating bilingual IT solutions to meet Canada’s French and English language requirements.

They’re integral to Canada’s e-government services, designing systems for tax filing, immigration applications, and public health services.

Many are part of projects that optimize supply chains in Canada’s vast geography, ensuring efficient transportation and logistics.

NOC Code: 21203 – Land Surveyors

Land surveyors determine property boundaries, create official plans, and document natural and man-made features for legal and development purposes.

Canadian land surveyors are essential for delineating boundaries in remote northern territories, often working in extreme weather conditions.

They’re critical for mapping out Indigenous land claims, supporting reconciliation efforts and land use planning.

Surveyors use advanced tech like LiDAR to create precise maps for large-scale projects like the Trans-Canada Highway.

NOC Code: 21201 – Landscape Architects

Landscape architects design and manage the development of natural and built environments, including parks, gardens, and urban spaces. They ensure these projects align with environmental sustainability and community needs.

Landscape architects are working on restoring Canada’s prairie ecosystems, creating green spaces that promote biodiversity.

They often collaborate on urban projects like Toronto’s Bentway, a park system beneath a highway overpass.

Many are involved in designing climate-resilient landscapes, such as floodplain parks in areas prone to extreme weather.

NOC Code: 21210 – Mathematicians, Statisticians, and Actuaries

Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries use mathematical and statistical techniques to solve problems in fields like engineering, business, and social sciences. Actuaries specialize in assessing financial risks.

Actuaries in Canada are essential for designing models to evaluate climate-related financial risks for insurers and banks.

Statisticians often work with the Canadian Census, ensuring accurate data collection for policy-making.

Mathematicians contribute to innovations in Canada’s cryptographic systems, ensuring secure online communication.

NOC Code: 21322 – Metallurgical and Materials Engineers

Metallurgical and materials engineers study materials’ properties and develop processes to produce, refine, and utilize metals, ceramics, and composites.