So you’re ready to move to Canada and start building a new life for yourself and your family. But it may take some time to land a job in your chosen field. That’s where “survival jobs” or short-term work that helps pay the bills and build Canadian experience come in.
Why survival jobs matter
Finding work in your profession can take time, especially as you adjust to a new country and job market. A survival job is often the bridge that helps newcomers stay afloat financially while continuing to pursue long-term career goals.
What survival jobs are easy to get?
According to Gaurav Vaid, a job developer at COSTI, a settlement organization with wraparound services for newcomers to Canada, the easiest survival jobs typically fall into six categories:
- Warehouse/packaging jobs – Often seasonal with high turnover, these roles don’t usually require Canadian experience and provide on-the-job training.
- Retail – Stores are always hiring. With basic English and reliable transportation, you have a strong chance of being hired, and benefits are often available after a period of work.
- Quick-service restaurants – Flexible hours are ideal for those still settling into life in Canada.
- Delivery work – If you have a valid driver’s license and a car, you can start earning almost immediately, though income may fluctuate.
- Customer service – Strong communication and people skills can open doors in sales, banking, and other service sectors with good salaries and benefits.
- Hospitality – Hotels, offices, and residences offer many jobs in cleaning and housekeeping, even for those with limited English.
Cautioning against staying too long in a survival job, Vaid says, “The longer some people work in a survival role, the more they risk losing interest and drive to return to their original profession. In fast-changing fields like technology, skills can quickly become outdated.”
How to transition into your field
Survival jobs should be viewed as a stepping stone. To move toward your professional career, try these strategies:
- Volunteering – Stay connected to your field, build your resume, and gain Canadian experience while expanding your network.
- Upskilling – Take advantage of free online courses, certifications, or PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition) to fill knowledge gaps and avoid repeating courses.
- Networking – Join professional associations, attend events, and schedule coffee chats. Many professionals are willing to share their experiences and advice.
- Staying visible – Be active on LinkedIn, connect with industry peers, and share achievements to show continuous professional growth.
Gaurav Vaid also recommends working with an employment consultant. He advises that each application should be tailored to the job posting. Constantly customizing resumes can be tiring, but settlement agencies offer free support to help newcomers identify job opportunities, prepare for interviews, and navigate the labour market.
Key advice for newcomers
Survival jobs should only be a short-term commitment. “Seek guidance from fellow newcomers who’ve already walked this path,” says Vaid. “They understand the skills and strategies needed to succeed in Canada.”
Networking with the right professional community, staying informed about industry trends, and building skills daily — even in small ways — can help newcomers maintain momentum. “It’s these small, consistent steps,” he adds, “that keep you motivated and focused while moving toward long-term career goals.”
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