If you are considering moving to Canada, cybersecurity is an excellent career choice. Cybersecurity professionals are essential to protecting systems and processes from cyberattacks and ransomware. Due to skills shortages at home and abroad, demand for cybersecurity engineers is high across all Canadian government sectors.
Following the pandemic, ransomware attacks and other online threats have increased sharply in Canada, creating an urgent need for cyber talent across all industries. Effective cybersecurity organizations are essential in every aspect of Canadian society.
If you’re interested in cybersecurity but don’t have a technical background or degree, there are various roles in policy, research, law enforcement, data analytics, and other fields that require critical thinking and an understanding of cybersecurity principles. A strong interest in technology is an advantage if you’re pursuing a more technical role.
Functions and responsibilities of a cybersecurity engineer
Advertisement
First, let’s clarify what a cybersecurity engineer does. A cybersecurity engineer is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to protect a company’s digital presence.
This profession offers a range of responsibilities and benefits. As a cybersecurity engineer, your responsibilities would include:
- Plan, manage, implement, monitor, and improve security measures to protect the organization’s systems, data, and networks.
- Analyze and resolve network and security issues.
- Fix security vulnerabilities in the system or network.
- Ensure the security of corporate infrastructure and data by activating appropriate security measures.
- Support in the change management process.
- Identify and test network and system vulnerabilities.
- Managing daily tasks, reporting and coordinating with key departments within the organization.
- Assess the organization’s security needs and establish relevant standards and policies.
- Respond to security breaches on the network and connected systems.
- Implement the necessary security measures to protect the organization’s current data and infrastructure.
A solid understanding of the skills, tasks and responsibilities required can pave your path to becoming a successful cybersecurity engineer.
If you are considering moving to Canada, let the best Canadian immigration consultants help you assess your eligibility for a Canadian PR visa.
Canadian Visa Programs for Cybersecurity Specialists
Express entry Express Entry is one of Canada’s most popular programs for skilled workers seeking a Canadian permanent resident (PR) visa. It offers opportunities through three federal government programs, including a pathway for cybersecurity engineers to move to Canada. The Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP) under the Express Entry program allows individuals with at least one year of work experience in an in-demand occupation in Canada to apply for a PR visa.
Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are immigration programs administered by each Canadian province and territory. These programs have various subcategories tailored to the specific workforce needs of each region. Each province offers a special category for skilled workers that allows them to immigrate, obtain a PR visa, and work in that particular province.
How much do cybersecurity workers make in Canada?
The average Cybersecurity Salary in Canada Is 123,150 USD per year or $63.15 per hour. Entry-level positions start at 95,568 USD per year, while most experienced workers earn up to 145,925 USD per year.
Salaries for cybersecurity professionals in Canada can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, and specific job role, but here is a general overview:
Entry-level positions:
Cybersecurity Analyst: Typically between CAD $50,000 and CAD $70,000 per year.
Network Security Specialist: About 55,000 to 75,000 CAD annually.
Middle level positions:
Safety Engineer: 75,000 to 100,000 CAD per year.
Penetration tester: 70,000 to 95,000 CAD annually.
Senior level positions:
Cybersecurity Manager: 100,000 to 130,000 CAD per year.
Security Architect: 110,000 to 150,000 CAD annually.
Management level positions:
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): 150,000 to 200,000 CAD or more per year.
These figures are approximate and may vary depending on the industry, company size and geographic location in Canada. For example, salaries may be higher in large cities such as Toronto, Vancouver or Calgary than in smaller cities.
Is it easy to get a security job in Canada?
Getting a job in cybersecurity in Canada can be highly competitive, but it is doable, especially given the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the field. Here are some factors to consider:
1. High demand:
Cybersecurity is a high-demand field in Canada, as many organizations are actively trying to protect their data and systems from cyber threats. This demand creates opportunities for those with the right skills and qualifications.
2. Skills and Certifications:
Relevant skills and certifications (such as CISSP, CEH, CompTIA Security+ or CISM) can significantly improve your chances of getting a job. Employers often look for candidates with in-depth knowledge of cybersecurity principles, risk management and practical experience with security tools.
3. Experience:
While entry-level positions are available, some practical experience, whether through internships, co-op programs or personal projects, can give you an edge over other applicants.
4. Networking:
Networking within the industry can also help you find job opportunities. Attending cybersecurity conferences, joining professional associations, and connecting with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn can open doors for you.
5. Location:
Job availability may vary by region. Larger cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Ottawa tend to offer more opportunities, but there are also jobs in smaller towns and remote areas.
6. Continuous learning:
Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field, and staying up to date with the latest trends, threats, and technologies through continuous learning and certifications will make you a more attractive candidate.
7. Language skills:
A basic knowledge of English is required and in some regions, particularly Quebec, knowledge of French may also be an advantage.
Although the cybersecurity job market in Canada is highly competitive, overall there are many opportunities for those who are well prepared and proactive in their job search.
Diploma
With visa sponsorship, it is possible to get a job in cybersecurity in Canada, especially due to the high demand for skilled professionals. With the right qualifications, experience and networks, international applicants can find opportunities in this growing field.
