The Top Finance Jobs in Canada

Canada’s finance sector is a cornerstone of its economy, offering various career opportunities for professionals with diverse skill sets. As one of the most stable and well-regulated financial markets globally, finance jobs in Canada continue to attract talent worldwide. With a growing Canadian economy, an aging workforce, and increasing demand for specialized financial services, the country seeks skilled finance professionals to fill critical roles.

If you're ready to take your career to the next level, take a look at our guide's exploration of the top finance jobs in Canada and how you can build a career in this thriving industry.

Does Canada Need Are Finance Workers ?

The short answer is yes. Canada’s finance sector is experiencing steady growth, driven by population growth, technological advancements, and the need for financial expertise in a complex global economy. According to Canada’s Job Bank, many finance-related occupations are expected to have good to excellent job prospects over the next decade.

For example, financial analysts, accountants, and investment professionals are consistently listed as in-demand roles. Canada’s aging population is creating a talent gap in the finance sector. As experienced professionals retire, there is a growing need for younger workers to fill these roles. This presents an excellent opportunity for Canadian graduates and international professionals to build rewarding careers in finance.

Top 5 Finance Job Sectors in Canada

Canada's strong financial landscape offers diverse career paths for aspiring finance professionals. Here is a look of the five key sectors driving the industry, highlighting the unique opportunities and in-demand roles within each.

Banking and Financial Services

The banking sector is the backbone of Canada’s finance industry. With major players like Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Toronto-Dominion (TD) Bank, Bank of Nova Scotia (Scotiabank), Bank of Montreal (BMO), and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) dominating the market, there is a constant need for professionals in retail banking, corporate banking, and investment banking.

Roles in this sector range from financial advisors and loan officers to risk analysts and investment bankers. The sector is also evolving with the rise of fintech, creating opportunities for professionals with expertise in digital banking and financial technology.

Accounting and Auditing

Accounting and auditing are essential for businesses of all sizes, making this sector one of the most stable in the finance industry. Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) are in high demand, particularly in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. Roles include:

• Tax accountants,
• Auditors,
• Financial analysts, and
• Controllers.

With Canada’s complex tax laws and regulatory environment, skilled accountants are indispensable.

Investment Management and Wealth Management

As Canadians increasingly seek to grow and protect their wealth, the demand for investment and wealth management professionals has surged. This sector includes roles such as portfolio managers, financial planners, and investment analysts. Firms like Fidelity, Vanguard, and independent wealth management companies are actively hiring professionals who can provide tailored financial solutions to clients.

Insurance

The insurance sector is another critical component of Canada’s finance industry. With a wide range of products, including life, health, property, and casualty insurance, this sector requires actuaries, underwriters, claims adjusters, and risk managers. The aging population in Canada has also increased the demand for insurance products, driving the need for skilled professionals.

Fintech and Financial Technology

Fintech is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Canada, with cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver emerging as global fintech hubs. This sector combines finance and technology, offering digital payments, blockchain, cryptocurrency, and financial software development roles. Professionals with expertise in data analytics, cybersecurity, and software engineering are particularly sought.

In-demand Jobs in Each Major Finance Job Sector in Canada

The finance industry in Canada offers a variety of career opportunities across multiple sectors. Here are the top in-demand jobs in Canada's major finance job sector, with National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and annual average salaries from Canada’s Job Bank.

Banking and Financial Services

Banking and Financial Services Jobs in Canada	NOC Codes	Average Annual Salary (CAD)
Bank Manager	00012	156,819.69
Branch Manager	10021	156,764.79
Financial Analyst	11101	114,919.05
Financial Advisor	11102	99,243.22
Loan Officer	63102	80,929.41

Accounting and Auditing

Accounting and Auditing Jobs in Canada	NOC Code	Average Annual Salary (CAD)
Tax Manager	40011	176,152.51
Financial Controller	10010	159,594.60
Accountant	11100	109,921.56
Auditor	11100	109,920.41
Senior Accountant	11100	109,891.24

Investment Management and Wealth Management

Investment Management and Wealth Management Jobs in Canada	NOC Code	Annual Average Salary (CAD)
Investment Manager	10020	156,260.81
Securities Analyst	11101	114,879.11
Portfolio Manager	11101	114,877.12
Wealth Manager	11102	99,208.97
Financial Advisor	11102	99,202.70

Insurance

Insurance Jobs in Canada	NOC Codes	Annual Average Salaries (CAD)
Actuary	21210	132 253,31
Risk Manager	41401	125 027,08
Claims Adjuster	12201	95 465,79
Insurance Underwriter	13100	93 131,67
Insurance Broker	63100	82,711.20

Fintech and Financial Technology

Fintech and Financial Technology Jobs in Canada	NOC Codes	Annual Average Salaries (CAD)
Product Manager	60010	151,567.51
Cybersecurity Analyst	21220	131,134.55
Data Scientist	21211	122,535.14
Business Analyst	21221	120,256.11
Fintech Developer	21750	106,590.98

How You Can Work in Canada’s Finance Sector?

Securing a Canadian work permit is often the first step to a finance career in Canada. Several pathways exist to working in Canada.

Step 1: Meet Canadian Educational Standards

First, ensure you meet the educational and certification requirements, such as a finance, accounting, or economics degree and relevant credentials like CPA Canada (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA). Gain experience through internships or entry-level roles to strengthen your profile.

Step 2: Apply for a Canadian Work Permit

You’ll need a valid work permit to work legally in Canada. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Mobility Program (IMP) are common pathways. For finance professionals, the Global Talent Stream under TFWP is particularly advantageous, offering expedited processing for in-demand roles.

Step 3: Get a Canadian Study Permit (if Applicable)

If you’re an international student graduating from an eligible designated learning institution (DLI), you apply for a Postgraduate Work Permit (PGWP), allowing you to work in Canada as a finance worker for up to three years. This can provide valuable Canadian work experience, making them eligible for other immigration programs.

Step 4: Apply For Canadian Permanent Residency

Alternatively, you can apply for Canadian permanent residency via the Express Entry system, and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) provide pathways to Canadian permanent residency, often requiring a job offer from a Canadian employer.

Step 5: Networking

Networking is vital. You must connect with industry professionals and attend job fairs to secure opportunities. Ensure your foreign credentials are recognized in Canada through organizations like World Education Services (WES). You can build a successful career in Canada’s thriving finance sector with the right qualifications and a valid Canadian work permit.

FAQs

What is the Work Culture Like in Canadian Finance?

Canadian finance workplaces generally emphasize professionalism, collaboration, and work-life balance, though this can vary by company. Respect for diversity and inclusion is typically prioritized, and communication is often direct yet diplomatic. While long hours may be expected in some roles, many firms are increasingly promoting a healthy work-life integration.

What Are Some Essential Skills for Success in the Canadian Finance Industry?

Beyond technical and financial knowledge, strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial. Adaptability and a willingness to learn are also essential, as the industry constantly evolves with new technologies and regulations. Networking and building professional relationships are highly valued.

How Can I Find Finance Job Opportunities in Canada?

Online job boards like Indeed Canada, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor are excellent resources, as are company websites and professional associations. Networking through industry events and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn can open doors to unadvertised opportunities. Using recruitment agencies specializing in finance can also be beneficial.

Do I Need Canadian Work Experience to Get a Finance Job in Canada?

While Canadian work experience is often preferred, it's not always a strict requirement, especially for entry-level or specialized roles. Relevant international experience and strong skills and qualifications can make candidates competitive. Gaining Canadian work experience through internships or post-graduate work permits can significantly improve job prospects.