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Canada Working Holiday Visa
Finding a Job Tips


 FINDING A JOB

Aussies are generally highly regarded by Canadian employers.  They are well known for their flexibility, great attitude, and willingness to work hard.  It’s not too hard to find a job in Canada, and the type of work available is incredibly varied, a bit like the country itself.   

If you’ve got recognised qualification, are computer literate, or have skills specific to any industry, it shouldn’t be too hard to find something.  There’s also plenty of opportunities for good old fashioned hands on work such as bar work, fruit picking, hospitality etc.  In saying this, it’s not always easy to find a job quickly, so be prepared to put in a bit of effort.

Here are a few pointers that might help with your plans for finding a job…

·         Unlike many other Working Holiday Programs, the one for Australians going to Canada does allow participants to continue to work in their chosen career field.  Alternately, you might want to take seasonal work on the ski fields or in the hospitality industry – it’s entirely up to you.

·         The Work Permit issued under the Australia Working Holiday Program to Canada is what is called an “open” authorisation.  That is, it allows you to undertake any type of work you choose, for any length of time.  You can work for one employer the entire time you are in Canada, or you can work for someone different every day – it’s up to you!  You can also work as many hours as you choose. 

·         If you plan to work in the teaching or medical services fields, you will be required to undergo and pass an immigration medical examination when you arrive in Canada and have your permit modified before you can take a job of this nature.

·         Make sure you take an up to date resume (CV) with you, along with some recent references.  As you can continue to work in your chosen field under the AWHP, there are no problems with Customs and Immigration if you are carrying your resume when you enter Canada.  It’s also important to carry a copy of your resume on disk so you can update it and print it out as you travel around.

·         If you have professional qualifications, check out the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials at www.cicic.ca to find out if they’re recognised in Canada and also find out what registration or industry requirements there may be.

·         If you plan on working in Quebec, make sure your French is up to scratch!

 Here are a few resources to help find a job:

Internet / Web Sites
The internet is a great way to find a job.  Many newspapers that have job listings are available on the internet, there a plenty of specialized job search sites, you can check out a company or resort that you would like to work for and send them your resume, even research different recruitment companies and the type of work they specialize in.  You can often apply for a job immediately by submitting your resume electronically. 




www.allstarjobs.ca is an awesome site, where a huge number of internet resources for finding a job can be found, from internet job listing sites to recruitment companies and daily newspaper job ads.

This is something you can get started on before you leave for Canada, but be sure not to line anything up until after you have your work visa, or you won’t be eligible.

If you’re set on the ski slopes for the season, then visit www.wework2play.com for essential info and opportunities.

Recruitment Companies / Temp Agencies
These companies can be a good resource for temporary and contract positions.  There are a number of different agencies that have different specialities, eg office work, IT, engineering & technical, sales & marketing, medical & related fields etc.  If you are considering using a recruitment company to help you find work make sure you have a good resume, full references, and are prepared to invest a bit of time to register with them and complete any skill testing and interviewing they might want you to undertake.

You can check out different companies on the internet and do quite a bit of research, and maybe even forward your resume, before you leave home. 

Newspapers
Most city newspapers contain job listings.  www.worksitecanada.com has on line classified job ads from all newspapers across Canada.

Direct Approach
For more casual work in bars, restaurants, cafes, retail outlets etc, why not go in and ask if there’s anything available.  Make sure you’re presentable and have your resume with you – you never know your luck!

Hostels
A lot of hostels and places that travellers hang out have job boards.  They can be a good source of leads and information, as can your fellow travellers!