Working in Manitoba: A Report for New Immigrants

 With a high-powered economy, skilled workers, tradespeople, and professionals are in demand in Manitoba. That is why, in order to support and sustain its economy, Manitoba was the first Canadian province to establish its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is locally driven and based on the needs of Manitoba employers. 

The MPNP selects potential candidates with the right academic and employment experience – to meet the province’s labor market shortages. Once nominated under the MPNP, candidates automatically meet the eligibility for Canada PR. 

Each year, some 15,000 new immigrants immigrate to Manitoba. The results for internationally experienced skilled workers, tradespeople, and professionals who immigrate through the MPNP are positive. According to a survey, 83% of Manitoba nominees were working three months after arrival. Furthermore, 75% were homeowners within five years and 97% of families settled permanently in the province. 

Manitoba Labor Market Outlook

The labor market conditions in Manitoba are unique and its economy is strongly positioned to meet the gaps using its Manitoba NOC list 2023. 

The province will see a total of 141,700 new job openings between 2021 and 2025 – with 57% of these vacancies targeted at replacing worker retirements and deaths. This target predicts approximately 28,300 new job openings in Manitoba per year. 

Current in-demand jobs in Manitoba for immigrants

There are some jobs in Manitoba that never go off-demand – whereas, some are seasonal-demand jobs. Such jobs are mentioned on the Manitoba NOC list 2023. The province updates the in-demand occupation list in Manitoba on a yearly basis. 

As of now, the most in-demand jobs in Manitoba for immigrants include: 

• Graphics Designer and Illustrator - NOC Code: 5241

• Cleaning Supervisor - NOC Code: 6315

• Delivery and Courier Service Driver - NOC Code: 7514

• Computer Network Technician - NOC Code: 2281

• Insurance Agent and Broker - NOC Code: 6231

• Shipper and Receiver - NOC Code: 1521

• Material Handler - NOC Code: 7452

Top industries in Manitoba

The current industries with the highest number of occupations mentioned on the Manitoba NOC list 2023 include: 

• Service Industries: Trade, Finance & Insurance, Real Estate, Construction, Transportation & Warehousing, Information Technology, Arts & Entertainment, Tourism, and Professional Services. 

• Manufacturing Industries: Pharmaceutical, Aerospace, Vehicles & Equipment, Food & Beverage, Chemicals, Metals, Plastics, Rubber, Mineral Products, and Wood Products. 

• Mining and Oil: Nickel, Copper, Zinc, and Gold – as well as active oil fields. 

• Agriculture and Forestry: Timber and Wood Products. 

Cities in Manitoba with the most job vacancies 

The capital of Manitoba, Winnipeg, and the province’s second-largest city Brandon – are the two best places to look for employment as a new immigrant. The average Manitoba salary in Canada is $47,500 per year or $24.36 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $31,883 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $104,500 per year.

The increase in the employment rate in Manitoba as well as through Canada - was a result of job seekers (youth and core-aged women) – working full-time across various industries. From here onwards, it is predicted that the unemployment rate will continue to rise going forward this year.