Explore high-paying Marine and Offshore jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship in 2025. Learn salaries, requirements, and immigration pathways for international professionals.
Overview:
Canada’s marine and offshore industry is booming, driven by energy projects, international shipping, and renewable ocean technologies. From offshore oil rigs to marine engineering, Marine and Offshore jobs in Canada offer salaries up to $250,000 per year, alongside visa sponsorship opportunities for skilled global workers.
In 2025, the sector faces a major workforce shortage, creating thousands of job openings for engineers, technicians, sailors, and offshore safety specialists. These roles come with high pay, long-term contracts, and clear pathways to Canadian permanent residency (PR).
Can I Immigrate to Canada as a Marine or Offshore Professional?
Yes! Canada urgently needs skilled professionals in its marine, offshore, and energy sectors making it one of the easiest industries for foreign workers to immigrate through.
Popular immigration and work permit pathways include:
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class)
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) – ideal for seaport provinces like Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – especially in coastal provinces
Global Talent Stream (GTS) – for specialized offshore engineers and technicians
Employer-Sponsored Work Permits
Visa Sponsorship for Marine and Offshore Jobs in Canada:
Many Canadian employers are willing to sponsor qualified foreign workers to fill critical positions in marine and offshore operations. Sponsorship may include:
A valid job offer and LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) approval
Work permit application support
Relocation assistance (flights, housing, settlement aid)
In some cases, family sponsorship options for dependents
This makes it easier for international professionals to relocate, work, and eventually settle in Canada.
Eligibility and Requirements
To work in the Canadian marine and offshore industry, you typically need:
A Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Engineering, Offshore Technology, Mechanical, Electrical, or Petroleum Engineering
Relevant sea-time or offshore experience
Language proficiency (English or French – IELTS/CELPIP/TEF)
Valid seafarer and offshore certifications, such as:
- STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping)
- BOSIET / HUET (Offshore Survival Training)
- Medical Fitness Certificates
Clean criminal and medical record
Professional certifications and safety courses significantly increase employability.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
After entering Canada on a work permit, you can apply for PR through:
Express Entry (FSWP or CEC)
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – especially in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, British Columbia, and New Brunswick
Once you gain a year or more of Canadian work experience, your PR application becomes faster and easier under these programs.
Responsibilities of Marine and Offshore Workers:
Marine and offshore professionals in Canada perform various technical and operational duties, including:
Operating and maintaining vessels, rigs, and offshore platforms
Conducting inspections and safety checks
Performing repairs and maintenance of marine systems
Supporting oil and gas exploration and production
Managing supply and logistics operations
Ensuring compliance with marine and environmental regulations
Monitoring offshore drilling and pipeline systems
Work Hours and Conditions
Offshore workers typically work on a rotation schedule — for example, 2–3 weeks on-site followed by 2–3 weeks off.
Marine professionals (on ships or ports) may work 35–48 hours per week, depending on contracts.
Most employers provide meals, accommodation, and travel allowances while on duty.
Average Salaries of Marine and Offshore Professionals in Canada (2025)
Job Role Average Annual Salary (CAD)
Offshore Installation Manager (OIM) 180,000 – 250,000
Marine Superintendent 150,000 – 220,000
Offshore Engineer 120,000 – 200,000
Dynamic Positioning (DP) Operator 110,000 – 180,000
Marine Engineer 90,000 – 150,000
Rig Technician 80,000 – 140,000
Deck Officer / Chief Mate 85,000 – 130,000
Offshore Welder / Fabricator 75,000 – 120,000
ROV Operator 90,000 – 160,000
Top-tier offshore roles can earn up to CAD $250,000 annually, especially in oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors.
Highest Paying Marine and Offshore Jobs in Canada (2025)
1. Offshore Installation Manager (OIM) – Up to $250,000
2. Marine Superintendent / Fleet Manager – $200,000+
3. Offshore Drilling Supervisor – $180,000+
4. Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) – $150,000+
5. Subsea / ROV Engineer – $140,000+
These positions often come with extended contracts, premium benefits, and relocation packages.
Most In-Demand Marine and Offshore Jobs
Marine Engineers and Technicians
Offshore Platform Workers
ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) Operators
Subsea Engineers
Deck Officers and Seafarers
Welders and Fabricators
Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) Officers
Logistics and Supply Chain Coordinators
How to Find and Apply for Marine & Offshore Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
You can apply directly to Canadian employers through:
Job Bank Canada
Indeed Canada
LinkedIn Jobs
Glassdoor Canada
Marine People
Rigzone Canada
Top hiring regions:
Newfoundland & Labrador (offshore oil & gas)
Nova Scotia (shipbuilding & marine logistics)
British Columbia (commercial shipping & ports)
Alberta (offshore engineering & energy support)
When applying:
Emphasize STCW and BOSIET certifications
Include relevant offshore project experience
Clarify availability for visa sponsorship
Confirm LMIA support before accepting any job offer
How to Get a Canadian Work Visa as a Marine/Offshore Worker
Step 1: Apply to Canadian companies offering visa sponsorship.
Step 2: Receive a valid job offer and LMIA approval.
Step 3: Apply for a work permit (under the Global Talent Stream or AIP).
Step 4: Relocate and begin working in Canada.
Step 5: Apply for permanent residency after gaining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do Canadian companies sponsor offshore workers?
Yes — especially in oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors needing global talent.
2. What is the salary range for offshore jobs in Canada?
Between CAD 80,000 and 250,000 per year, depending on role and experience.
3. Which provinces have the most offshore jobs?
Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, British Columbia, and Alberta.
4. Do I need offshore training certificates?
Yes — STCW, BOSIET, HUET, and safety courses are mandatory.
5. Can offshore workers apply for PR?
Yes — through Express Entry, AIP, or PNP after gaining Canadian work experience.
Conclusion:
In 2025, Marine and Offshore jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship offer some of the highest-paying and most stable career opportunities in the country. With earnings reaching up to $250,000 per year, relocation support, and clear PR pathways, Canada’s offshore industry is a gateway to long-term success for skilled professionals worldwide.
If you have the skills and certifications, now is the best time to start your journey and build your offshore career in Canada.
No comments: