The 20 Highest Paying Jobs in Canada

Annual average base salary: $391,568

Healthcare leads the list of the best paying jobs in Canada, with medical anesthesiologists enjoying the highest earning potential in Canada for the coming year. The Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society defines them as “doctors who administer the drugs that prevent patients from feeling pain or sensation during surgery. But that’s not all that these specialists do. They are responsible for the well-being of the patient before, during, and after surgery.” Before the surgery, they meet with patients to assess their medical history, conduct any requisite exams, and decide on the anesthetic to be used. Decisions on anesthetics are based on the type of surgery and the patient’s health. They are also responsible for monitoring patients during surgery, ensuring they are responsive to any emergencies that may arise. Afterward, they are responsible for safely awakening the patient from anesthesia and, if needed, prescribing pain-relieving medication and providing postoperative care. Their extensive training and expertise make them indispensable in the medical field, contributing to their high earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $386,757

Cardiologists diagnose, assess, and treat patients with defects and diseases of the heart and blood vessels; overall, they are doctors of the cardiovascular system. They work with either an independent practice or a medical institution, providing specialized care for conditions such as heart attacks, arrhythmias, and hypertension. Some responsibilities in this profession are:

• Assessing new patients via a medical interview
• Ordering tests to confirm suspected conditions
• Diagnosing patients via lab and test results
• Designing a treatment plan for all patients
• Prescribing appropriate medications and therapies to patients
• Coordinating with patients’ primary care physicians (PCP) and surgeons
• Providing ongoing care and checkups on all patients
• Pursuing ongoing and continuing education to stay on top of the latest research findings

Cardiologists play a critical role in managing heart health, which is a growing concern in many populations due to lifestyle factors. This high demand for specialized cardiovascular care contributes to their position among the best paying jobs in Canada.

Annual average base salary: $378,634

Surgeons are types of physicians who perform surgical procedures on patients to treat a variety of illnesses and injuries. They can perform general surgery, but many specialize in a specific area of medicine, such as neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, or cardiovascular surgery, writes Indeed. While their primary duty is operating on patients, they have other responsibilities as well, including examining patients to diagnose whether they need surgery, creating a surgical and treatment plan based on the patient’s medical history, and researching new surgical techniques. Surgeons also provide postoperative care, manage complications, and follow up with patients to monitor their recovery. Due to the complexity and risk involved in surgeries, along with the extensive education and training required to become a surgeon, this profession commands a high salary and is one of the best career opportunities in Canada.

Annual average base salary: $333,976

Psychiatry, according to the Canadian Medical Association, is the medical specialty that deals with the diseases of the mind. Psychiatric patients have illnesses and problems that require a comprehensive biological, psychological, and social evaluation to understand their illnesses and needs. This is provided by a psychiatrist, who comprehensively assesses the patient, diagnoses them, and creates a treatment plan for their care and rehabilitation. Psychiatrists work in different settings, and their roles might vary in each. For example, a psychiatrist at a general hospital would be responsible for the care and treatment of psychiatric inpatients, and providing consultation and liaison to the medical/surgical units and patients. One working at a community office practice, on the other hand, would place emphasis on working individually with a patient using a multitude of management, rehabilitative, and psychotherapeutic techniques. Due to the increasing awareness and prioritization of mental health, psychiatrists are in high demand, contributing to their substantial earning potential as one of the best career opportunities in Canada.

Annual average base salary: $269,126

The Canadian Association of Orthodontists defines these professionals as dentists who have completed an additional two to three years of university education to specialize in orthodontic treatment. “Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.” The technical term for these problems is ‘malocclusion,’ which means ‘bad bite.’ The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application, and control of corrective appliances (braces) to bring teeth, lips, and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.” Orthodontists are different from general dentists, however, as they are specialists in diagnosis and correction of bite issues. They first become dentists through a four-year dental school training at a school or institution accredited by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), following which they must complete a two-to-three-year master’s program, accredited by the CDA, for advanced education specializing in orthodontic treatment. Their specialized skills and training, along with the growing demand for orthodontic care among both children and adults, contribute to their high earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $207,155

Financial controllers are eyeing very optimistic pay trends in 2024. Their role as the leader of the accounting team puts them at the forefront of a company’s financial health, where they maintain, manage, and analyze financial statements, payroll, budgets, tax compliance issues, and more. As per LinkedIn Business, a financial controller’s salary varies based on company size. While they often supervise a team of accountants and report to the CFO in a large corporate setting, they may be the sole accountant at a smaller firm, working with clerks and reporting to the owner or CEO. Controllers are critical in ensuring the financial integrity of an organization, overseeing audits, and providing strategic financial insights to support decision-making. With increasing regulatory complexities and the need for robust financial management, the demand for skilled controllers is on the rise, driving their substantial earnings as one of the best career opportunities in Canada.

Annual average base salary: $147,474

A cloud architect is an IT professional who oversees a company’s cloud computing strategy, including cloud adoption plans, cloud application design, and cloud management and monitoring. These individuals oversee application architecture and deployment in cloud environments, including public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid cloud. They may also be involved in certain legal areas of cloud computing and may negotiate contracts and work with legal and procurement departments. With businesses increasingly moving to cloud-based solutions to enhance scalability, security, and cost-efficiency, cloud architects are in high demand. They must possess a deep understanding of cloud technologies, security protocols, and networking, as well as strong problem-solving skills to design robust and flexible cloud environments. Their expertise in navigating the complexities of cloud systems and ensuring seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure is highly valued, contributing to their significant earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $143,044

Software engineering managers are the leaders of software program and application development and creation. They will also be the contact point for different departments to ensure that the qualifications of the application are met. Not only do they need to have a technical understanding of applications but they also need to be able to explain the same to other company executives in simplified language. According to Job Bank, they have very good prospects in New Brunswick, Ontario, and Quebec. Software engineering managers are responsible for guiding teams of developers, setting project goals, managing resources, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality software solutions on time and within budget. Their role requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing reliance on software across all industries, the demand for experienced software engineering managers is high, contributing to their competitive salaries.

Annual average base salary: $134,960

LinkedIn Business outlines a data scientist’s duties as involving the extraction of meaning from and interpreting data. This requires the aid of statistical methods and machinery, but “largely relies on analytical brain power.” Raw data’s unreliability calls for data scientists to use their technical expertise to clean, collect, and validate their data through a process requiring persistence and software engineering skills. They understand data, find patterns, and use their knowledge to help build and improve a company’s products or services. Data scientists are pivotal in helping organizations make data-driven decisions, optimizing operations, enhancing customer experiences, and driving innovation. They often work with large datasets, utilizing advanced analytics tools, machine learning algorithms, and predictive modeling techniques to uncover insights that inform strategic initiatives. The growing importance of big data in driving business success has led to a surge in demand for skilled data scientists, making this a highly lucrative profession.

Annual average base salary: $109,631

This space of law deals with the “formation, governance, and operations of corporations and how shareholders, directors, employees, creditors, and other stakeholders interact with a corporation and one another,” according to Best Lawyers. Corporate lawyers thus concern themselves with the laws governing the incorporation, dissolution, and registration of corporations, which may be formed under Canadian federal or provincial laws. They provide legal advice on a wide range of corporate matters, including mergers and acquisitions, contracts, intellectual property, compliance, and employment law. Corporate lawyers play a crucial role in safeguarding their clients’ interests and ensuring that business operations adhere to all relevant regulations. Due to the complexities involved in corporate governance and the need for specialized legal expertise, corporate lawyers are in high demand, contributing to their substantial earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $105,351

Pharmacists play a vital role in the healthcare system, dispensing medications prescribed by doctors and providing expertise in the safe use of prescriptions. They also offer advice on general health topics and guide patients on medication management and potential side effects. In Canada, pharmacists are licensed professionals who must complete a pharmacy degree and pass a series of exams. They work in various settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, and may specialize in areas such as oncology, pediatrics, or geriatrics. Pharmacists also play a key role in educating patients about their medications, helping to manage chronic conditions, and providing immunizations and other preventive care services. Their expertise in medication therapy management and commitment to patient safety make them an integral part of the healthcare team, contributing to their high earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $130,357

Dentists diagnose and treat issues related to teeth and gums, provide advice on oral health, and perform procedures like fillings, extractions, and root canals. Most dentists work in private practice, but opportunities also exist in hospitals and public health settings. Dentists in Canada are required to have a dental degree and be licensed by the province or territory in which they work. In addition to general dentistry, many dentists choose to specialize in areas such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery, further enhancing their expertise and earning potential. Dentists are also responsible for educating patients on preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, diet, and the importance of regular checkups. With a growing emphasis on oral health as an essential component of overall well-being, the demand for dental services continues to rise, contributing to the high earning potential of dentists in Canada.

Annual average base salary: $179,200

Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the earth’s surface. They are responsible for evaluating the potential of reservoirs, planning drilling operations, and optimizing production to maximize efficiency and profitability. This role requires a degree in engineering, preferably in petroleum engineering, and often involves travel to drilling sites. Petroleum engineers work closely with geologists, drilling engineers, and other specialists to develop and implement extraction strategies that minimize environmental impact and ensure the safe and efficient recovery of hydrocarbons. They also play a critical role in developing new technologies and techniques to enhance recovery rates and reduce costs, contributing to the sustainability of the energy sector. The demand for petroleum engineers is driven by the global need for energy and the ongoing exploration and development of new oil and gas resources, leading to high earning potential in this field.

Annual average base salary: $100,151

Marketing managers are responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing marketing policies and programs within organizations. They help companies understand what products or services customers want, identify the best markets for products, and plan how to reach potential customers. The role typically requires a degree in marketing, business administration, or a related field, along with significant experience. Marketing managers develop and execute strategies to increase brand awareness, generate leads, and drive sales. They work closely with sales, product development, and other departments to ensure that marketing efforts align with overall business goals. Marketing managers also analyze market trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences to adjust strategies and tactics as needed. With the increasing importance of digital marketing and the need for companies to differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace, the demand for skilled marketing managers is on the rise, contributing to their substantial earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $114,118

Financial managers oversee the financial health of an organization, preparing financial reports, directing investment activities, and developing strategies and plans for the long-term financial goals of the organization. They work in various sectors, including banking, insurance, and investment firms. A bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field is typically required, with many roles demanding a master’s degree or professional certification. Financial managers are responsible for managing budgets, forecasting financial performance, analyzing market trends, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. They also play a key role in developing and implementing financial strategies to optimize profitability and mitigate risks. Financial managers work closely with senior executives to provide insights and recommendations that support strategic decision-making. With the increasing complexity of financial markets and the need for effective financial management, the demand for skilled financial managers is high, leading to substantial earning potential in this field.

Annual average base salary: $178,610

Airline pilots fly and navigate airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft. They operate aircraft for airlines that transport passengers and cargo according to a schedule. Pilots need a high level of technical skill, an understanding of aircraft operations, and a pilot’s license. They must undergo extensive training, often including a degree in aviation and years of experience. Airline pilots are responsible for planning flight routes, conducting pre-flight inspections, and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew throughout the flight. They must also be prepared to handle emergencies and make quick decisions under pressure. In addition to commercial airline operations, pilots may work for private companies, government agencies, or as flight instructors. The demand for airline pilots is driven by the growth of the aviation industry and the need to replace retiring pilots, leading to high earning potential in this profession.

Annual average base salary: $104,347

Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment, such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, and power generation equipment. This profession requires a degree in electrical engineering and, often, professional certification or licensing, depending on the province or territory. Electrical engineers work in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, telecommunications, and energy. They are responsible for designing electrical systems and components, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations. Electrical engineers also play a key role in developing new technologies and improving existing ones to enhance performance, efficiency, and sustainability. With the growing demand for renewable energy sources and the increasing reliance on electronic devices and systems, the need for skilled electrical engineers is on the rise, contributing to their substantial earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $114,210

IT managers are responsible for the overall technology strategy of an organization. They plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities, helping determine the IT needs and implementing computer systems to fulfill the organization’s requirements. This role typically requires a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, along with extensive experience in IT. IT managers oversee the work of IT professionals, such as network administrators, software developers, and cybersecurity specialists, to ensure that technology infrastructure is secure, reliable, and efficient. They also manage IT budgets, negotiate with vendors, and develop policies and procedures to optimize technology use within the organization. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing importance of digital transformation, the demand for skilled IT managers is high, contributing to their significant earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $103,525

Human resources managers oversee an organization’s recruitment, interviewing, and hiring processes. They consult with top executives on strategic planning and act as a link between an organization’s management and its employees. A degree in human resources or business administration is typically required, with many roles demanding extensive experience in the field. Human resources managers are responsible for developing and implementing HR policies and programs, managing employee relations, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. They also play a key role in talent management, performance appraisal, and employee development to enhance workforce productivity and engagement. Human resources managers work closely with other departments to align HR strategies with overall business goals and foster a positive organizational culture. With the increasing focus on employee well-being and the need for effective HR management, the demand for skilled human resources managers is on the rise, contributing to their substantial earning potential.

Annual average base salary: $115,266

Geoscientists study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the earth. They may use geological, physics, and mathematics knowledge to search for natural resources like oil, gas, minerals, or groundwater. This role requires a degree in geoscience, geology, or a related field, and often involves fieldwork in remote locations. Geoscientists are responsible for conducting surveys, analyzing data, and developing models to understand geological processes and predict the distribution of resources. They work in various industries, including oil and gas, mining, environmental consulting, and government agencies. Geoscientists also play a key role in assessing geological hazards, such as earthquakes and landslides, to mitigate risks and ensure public safety. With the ongoing exploration and development of natural resources and the need for sustainable environmental management, the demand for skilled geoscientists is high, leading to substantial earning potential.