The Canadian engineering sector shows remarkable growth, and highest paying engineering jobs in Canada have become attractive career options. Job market projections indicate 100,000 engineering openings by 2025. This growth comes from retirements and economic expansion in sectors of all types.
This piece gets into ten profitable engineering careers in Canada and breaks down their salary ranges from entry-level to senior positions. You’ll find complete information about job responsibilities, career progression, and future market outlook that helps professionals make informed career decisions.
Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering Jobs in Canada
Software Engineer
“The median Software Engineer Salary in Canada during 2025 is CAD 196,472” — AI Jobs, AI and tech job market data platform
Software engineers are leading technological breakthroughs by designing and developing sophisticated software solutions in a variety of industries. They research, assess, and maintain software applications, operating systems, and technical environments.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Software engineers build the foundations for operative systems and run diagnostic tests to ensure peak performance. Their core responsibilities include:
- Designing and implementing software solutions through detailed analysis and problem-solving
- Developing documentation, flowcharts, and clear code comments for system specifications
- Testing and maintaining operating systems while fixing technical issues
Engineering Salary Range
A software engineer’s compensation in Canada shows substantial growth potential based on experience:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | CAD 127,743 – 140,000 |
| Mid-Career | CAD 164,420 – 180,000 |
| Senior Level | CAD 226,847 – 250,000 |
On top of that, software engineers earn performance bonuses between CAD 8,360 and CAD 41,800 yearly. Location plays a major role in earning potential, and tech hubs offer higher compensation packages.
Petroleum Engineer
“In Canada, the average pay for a petroleum engineer is CAD 181,243 a year, or CAD 92.95 per hour. Entry-level jobs pay CAD 88,930 annually, while the majority of experienced workers can expect to make up to CAD 187,725 annually.” — Leverage Edu, Global higher education platform
Petroleum engineers serve a vital role in Canada’s energy sector. They conduct essential studies for oil and gas exploration, development, and extraction. These professionals blend principles of geology, mathematics, physics, and chemistry to recover petroleum and natural gas from conventional and unconventional reservoirs.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Petroleum engineers work closely with oil field operating personnel and geoscience professionals to maximize resource recovery. Their main duties cover:
- Studies to determine feasibility of new oil and gas field development
- Management of drilling operations and creation of detailed drilling programs
- Performance analysis of reservoirs and design of optimal recovery methods
- Creation of specifications for well modification and stimulation programs
Canadian petroleum engineers earn a median wage of CAD 87.09 per hour. This reflects their work’s complexity and required expertise.
Engineering Salary Range
The compensation packages for petroleum engineers vary based on experience:
| Career Stage | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-1 years) | CAD 83,600 – 90,570 |
| Mid-Career (1-4 years) | CAD 118,440 – 139,340 |
| Senior Level (8+ years) | CAD 167,200 – 229,900 |
Total compensation packages often include extra benefits. Bonuses range from CAD 280 to CAD 69,670. Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia offer the highest earning potential.
Data Engineer/Machine Learning Engineer
Data engineers and machine learning engineers represent state-of-the-art technological advancement. They connect theoretical data science with practical software applications. These professionals have become vital players in Canada’s digital world.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Data engineers build and maintain flexible data systems that enable smooth data integration for analysis. Their core responsibilities include:
- Designing and implementing strong data pipelines that meet processing needs
- Building and maintaining database architectures, including data lakes and warehouses
- Implementing data security protocols and privacy policies
- Leading research activities with unstructured and structured data
Engineering Salary Range
Experience and specialization determine the compensation structure:
| Position | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | CAD 110,730 – 236,245 |
| Mid-Level | CAD 137,942 – 250,804 |
| Senior Level | CAD 171,380 – 282,850 |
Machine learning professionals earn additional bonuses between CAD 8,360 and CAD 48,770 each year. Data engineers receive extra compensation ranging from CAD 5,570 to CAD 20,900 annually.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineering stands among the most sophisticated engineering disciplines and one of the top paying engineering fields in canada. This field combines advanced physics, mathematics, and advanced technology. These professionals research, design, and develop aerospace vehicles, systems, and components for both aircraft and spacecraft applications.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Aircraft manufacturing facilities, air transport carriers, and research institutions employ most aerospace engineers. Their core responsibilities include:
- Developing and conducting computer simulations of aerospace vehicles using advanced mathematical modeling
- Supervising manufacturing, assembly, and modification of aircraft components
- Creating specifications for materials and maintenance processes
- Coordinating ground and flight tests of air and spacecraft
Engineering Salary Range
Canadian aerospace engineers’ compensation structure shows substantial growth potential based on experience:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-3 years) | CAD 64,000 – 85,000 |
| Mid-Career (4-9 years) | CAD 131,746 – 140,000 |
| Senior Level (10-20 years) | CAD 140,000 – 170,000 |
| Expert Level (20+ years) | CAD 150,000 – 190,000+ |
Base salaries range between CAD 83,600 and CAD 151,880. Engineers receive additional compensation through bonuses (CAD 671 – 13,930) and profit sharing (CAD 319 – 33,440).
Electrical Engineer
Among the other top paying engineering fields in Canada is the Electrical Engineering Field. Electrical engineers build the foundation of today’s technological world with their expertise in power systems, electronics, and control mechanisms. They blend technical knowledge with practical problem-solving skills to create and maintain electrical systems in a variety of industries.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Electrical engineers create, plan, and review electrical equipment and systems for many applications. Their main duties include:
- Researching feasibility and performance of electrical systems and machinery
- Creating specifications for electrical circuits, components, and equipment
- Managing installation, testing, and maintenance of electrical systems
- Creating project budgets and technical documentation
Engineering Salary Range
Electrical engineers’ pay varies based on their experience and location:
| Career Stage | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | CAD 84,482 – 140,680 |
| Mid-Career | CAD 102,846 – 144,232 |
| Senior Level | CAD 136,471 – 201,156 |
Engineers also receive bonuses between CAD 5,570 and CAD 18,110 each year. Windsor, Saskatoon, and London lead other Canadian cities in total compensation packages.
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers stand at the forefront of infrastructure development. They design and manage construction projects that build modern communities. Their blend of technical expertise and project management skills helps create everything from buildings to transportation systems.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Civil engineers primarily plan, design, and oversee construction projects. Their core responsibilities cover several key areas:
- They develop specifications for major civil projects including buildings, roads, bridges, and water management systems
- They conduct feasibility studies, economic analyzes, and environmental impact assessments
- They supervise construction work schedules and ensure compliance with building codes
Engineering Salary Range
Civil engineers earn different salaries based on their experience and location:
| Career Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-1 year) | CAD 82,092 |
| Mid-Career (1-4 years) | CAD 95,918 |
| Senior Level (8+ years) | CAD 167,200 |
Civil engineers also receive bonuses (CAD 1,340 – 15,330) and profit sharing (CAD 810 – 20,900)
Mining Engineer
Mining engineers play a vital role in Canada’s resource extraction industry. They combine geological expertise with engineering principles to create safe and efficient mining operations. These specialists work in mines of all types, from underground facilities to surface operations, and ensure optimal mineral extraction while meeting environmental standards.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Mining engineers focus on planning and supervising mine development, facilities, and equipment systems. Their main responsibilities include:
- Conducting preliminary surveys of ore and mineral deposits to assess economic and environmental feasibility
- Designing ventilation systems, mine services, and supporting structures
- Using innovative technology and safety practices while supervising contractors
Engineering Salary Range
Canadian mining engineers earn competitive salaries that reflect their expertise:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | CAD 84,990 – 120,982 |
| Mid-Career | CAD 125,400 – 175,847 |
| Senior Level | CAD 184,806 – 270,274 |
These professionals also receive bonuses between CAD 11,150 and CAD 29,260 each year. Of course, location affects earning potential. Saskatchewan leads with the highest median hourly rate at CAD 60.03, while Quebec follows at CAD 54.95.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers bridge the gap between medical science and engineering principles to create innovative solutions for healthcare challenges. They develop sophisticated medical devices and systems, from artificial organs to advanced diagnostic equipment.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
Biomedical engineers work in various settings like hospitals, laboratories, manufacturing plants, and research facilities. Their core responsibilities include:
- Designing and developing medical devices such as artificial hearts, prostheses, and surgical lasers
- Creating engineered therapies and neural-integrative prostheses
- Adapting computer hardware and software for medical applications
They often specialize in fields like bioinformatics, biomaterials, biomechanics, and tissue engineering.
Engineering Salary Range
Biomedical engineers earn competitive salaries throughout their careers:
| Career Stage | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | CAD 84,312 – 129,580 |
| Mid-Career | CAD 96,938 – 133,760 |
| Senior Level | CAD 106,544 – 257,129 |
Base salaries range from CAD 71,060 to CAD 133,760. Performance bonuses add to the total compensation packages.
Automation and Robotics Engineer
Automation and robotics engineers create trailblazing sophisticated automated systems that reshape the manufacturing and industrial operations scene in Canada. These professionals blend their expertise in mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to design automated solutions that boost productivity and safety.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
The core team of automation and robotics engineers configures, tests, and maintains automated systems. Their main responsibilities cover:
- Designing and implementing automation solutions for business processes
- Developing specifications for control systems and customer applications
- Testing and optimizing automated equipment performance
- System maintenance and calibration while solving technical issues
Engineering Salary Range
Experience levels significantly influence the compensation structure:
| Career Stage | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | CAD 71,985 – 137,535 |
| Mid-Career | CAD 113,036 – 150,680 |
| Senior Level | CAD 82,078 – 194,377 |
Automation engineers’ compensation includes performance bonuses from CAD 7,833 to CAD 41,800 yearly. Higher salaries are common in rural areas where demand is high.
DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers blend software development with IT operations to create a continuous connection between development teams and operational processes. These professionals reshape the scene of software product and service delivery throughout Canada’s technology sector.
Job Overview and Key Responsibilities
DevOps engineers research, design, and evaluate software applications and technical environments. Their core responsibilities include:
- Collecting and documenting user requirements and developing logical specifications
- Assessing, testing, and troubleshooting operating systems and applications
- Planning and coordinating computer-based system development
- Leading teams of information systems professionals in software development
Engineering Salary Range
DevOps engineering salary shows substantial growth potential:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | CAD 117,382 – 179,704 |
| Mid-Career | CAD 137,415 – 166,880 |
| Senior Level | CAD 144,910 – 204,651 |
Base salaries range from CAD 94,750 to CAD 135,160, with bonuses between CAD 5,570 and 19,510. Location plays a key role in earning potential. Manitoba offers CAD 211,399 annually, while Nova Scotia provides CAD 154,482.
Highest Paying Engineering Jobs in Canada Comparison Table
Engineers need reliable salary data and growth insights to make smart career moves. This guide dives into the numbers from Canada’s leading engineering fields.
| Engineering Role | Entry Level (CAD) | Mid-Career (CAD) | Senior Level (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petroleum Engineer | 83,600 – 90,570 | 118,440 – 139,340 | 167,200 – 229,900 |
| Software Engineer | 127,743 – 140,000 | 164,420 – 180,000 | 226,847 – 250,000 |
| Data/ML Engineer | 110,730 – 236,245 | 137,942 – 250,804 | 171,380 – 282,850 |
| Mining Engineer | 84,990 – 120,982 | 125,400 – 175,847 | 184,806 – 270,274 |
| Electrical Engineer | 84,482 – 140,680 | 102,846 – 144,232 | 136,471 – 201,156 |
| Civil Engineer | 82,092 – 107,288 | 95,918 – 153,269 | 167,200 – 222,937 |
| DevOps Engineer | 117,382 – 179,704 | 137,415 – 166,880 | 144,910 – 204,651 |
Salary patterns show interesting regional differences. Alberta pays top dollar for petroleum and mining engineers. Ontario stands out for software and data engineering pay. British Columbia’s civil and electrical engineers enjoy premium packages.
Each engineering field has its unique bonus structure:
- Petroleum engineers can earn 20-50% extra on their base salary
- Software and data engineers receive CAD 8,360 – 41,800
- Mining engineers get CAD 11,150 – 29,260
Job prospects look promising from 2024 to 2033. Software development leads with 113,100 new positions. Civil engineering follows with 65,600 openings, and electrical engineering adds 41,300 roles.
Major cities attract the highest-paying positions, though rural areas sometimes offer attractive packages to draw talent. Professional certifications and advanced degrees continue to boost earning potential in any engineering discipline.
Conclusion
Engineering careers in Canada show amazing growth potential in specializations of all types. Entry-level positions start at CAD 82,000 and can reach over CAD 280,000 for senior roles. Software, data, and petroleum engineering top the list of highest-paying fields that offer excellent compensation packages and clear paths to advance your career.
Your location greatly affects how much you earn. Alberta pays top dollar for petroleum and mining engineers. Ontario offers the best deals for software and data engineers. British Columbia rewards civil and electrical professionals generously. Small towns and rural areas often match big city salaries to get the right talent.
The employment outlook through 2033 looks bright. Companies will need 113,100 software developers, 65,600 civil engineers, and 41,300 electrical engineers. Professional certifications and advanced degrees boost your earning potential in any engineering discipline.
Smart engineers should pick specializations that match upcoming technologies and green practices. The right mix of technical skills, professional certifications, and job location can boost your earnings and career growth in Canada’s ever-changing engineering sector.
FAQs
Q1. Which engineering field offers the highest Engineering Salary in Canada? Petroleum engineering currently offers the highest salaries in Canada, with total compensation packages including generous bonuses and incentives. Software and data engineering also rank among the top-paying fields.
Q2. Can engineers in Canada earn over $200,000 per year? Yes, experienced engineers in certain fields can earn over $200,000 annually. Senior-level software engineers and those in leadership positions, particularly with 8+ years of experience, can command salaries in this range.
Q3. How do engineering salaries vary across different regions in Canada? Engineering salaries vary significantly by region. Alberta leads in petroleum and mining engineering salaries, Ontario dominates in software and data engineering compensation, while British Columbia offers premium packages for civil and electrical engineers.
Q4. What are the career growth prospects for engineers in Canada? The employment outlook for engineers in Canada is strong through 2033, with robust growth projected in software development, civil engineering, and electrical engineering. Opportunities for career advancement exist across various specializations.
Q5. How important are professional certifications for engineering careers in Canada? Professional certifications are highly valuable for engineering careers in Canada. They consistently correlate with higher earning potential across all engineering disciplines and can significantly enhance career prospects and advancement opportunities.
