Unlocking Opportunities: New Brunswick's Critical Worker Pilot for Skilled Immigrants

In November 2022, the New Brunswick provincial government launched the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) to attract skilled foreign workers and address significant labor shortages within the province. This innovative immigration pathway is designed to connect international talent with key sectors of New Brunswick's economy while offering extensive support for newcomers as they transition into their new lives.

What is the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP)?

Set to last five years from its inception, the NBCWP aims to fill critical positions within various industries by pairing skilled immigrants with select employers who have a proven track record of hiring foreign workers in Canada. This pilot program stands out from many traditional Canadian immigration pathways because it emphasizes employer involvement throughout the entire immigration journey. Participating employers actively support candidates with tailored settlement plans, ensuring a smooth transition to life in New Brunswick.

Key Features of the NBCWP

Candidates hired through the NBCWP can expect a range of settlement services provided by their employers, which may include:

• Housing and Transportation Support: Employers offer comprehensive plans to help newcomers secure housing and transportation, focusing on facilitating a seamless transition into their jobs and communities.

• Human Resources Planning: Employers engage in strategic recruitment efforts to attract skilled international talent, providing opportunities for on-the-job training and skills development.

• Language Training: Eligible candidates may receive up to 200 hours of language training to enhance their communication skills, ensuring they can integrate effectively into the workplace and community.

  
  

• Educational Guidance: Support is available for those interested in obtaining their Canadian secondary education equivalency, further enhancing their qualifications.

Participating Employers in the NBCWP

The NBCWP collaborates with six prominent employers in New Brunswick known for their commitment to hiring newcomers and fostering a diverse workforce. These employers are:

1. Cooke Aquaculture Inc.: A family-owned company that has operated in Atlantic Canada for over 35 years, specializing in sustainable aquaculture. They engage in salmon farming, fish processing, and related activities.

2. Groupe Savoie Inc.: With decades of experience in hardwood processing, Groupe Savoie manages all stages of production, from harvesting to manufacturing high-quality hardwood products.

3. Groupe Westco: Based in Saint-François de Madawaska, Groupe Westco is one of Canada’s largest poultry farming enterprises, expanding its operations to include food production and transportation.

4. Imperial Manufacturing Group (IMG): A leading manufacturer in the HVAC and construction industries, IMG produces a wide range of air distribution products and has been recognized for its excellence in management.

5. J.D. Irving, Limited: One of the largest privately held corporations in Canada, J.D. Irving has diverse operations across various sectors, including agriculture, construction, and shipbuilding.

6. McCain Foods: The world’s largest manufacturer of frozen french fries, McCain Foods has a significant global presence and is involved in various sectors, including transportation and agricultural production.

Job Opportunities Available

While the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) does not specify occupations for candidate eligibility, the NBCWP is primarily driven by employer demand. Here are some of the positions that participating employers may offer:

Cooke Aquaculture Inc.

• Aquaculture and Marine Operations: Saltwater Aquaculture Worker, Hatchery Technician, Fish Health Manager
• Processing and Plant Operations: Quality Assurance Manager, Fish Processing Plant Worker
• Logistics and Transportation: Truck Driver, Dispatcher

Groupe Savoie Inc.

• Technical Roles: Building Maintenance Technician, PLC Programmer
• Production Roles: Production Support, Welder/Assembler

Groupe Westco

• Poultry Farming and Production: Hatchery Technicians, Quality Control Inspectors
• Logistics: Truck Drivers, Transportation Coordinators

Imperial Manufacturing Group (IMG)

• Manufacturing Roles: Evening Production Supervisor, Machinery Operators
• Technical Roles: PLC Programmer, Building Maintenance Technician

J.D. Irving, Limited

• Manufacturing and Engineering Roles: Metal Fabricator, Chargehand, Engineer
• Logistics and Procurement: Associate Procurement Specialist, Buyer

McCain Foods

• Manufacturing and Production Roles: Training Supervisor, Sanitation Labourer
• Engineering and Technical Roles: Process Engineer, Sensory Scientist

How to Apply

To qualify for the NBCWP, candidates must secure a genuine offer of full-time (indeterminate) employment from one of the participating employers. They must also meet the basic eligibility criteria of the NBPNP. Interested candidates are encouraged to directly consult the employers to ensure their desired positions align with the program's requirements.

The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot presents a valuable opportunity for skilled foreign workers looking to establish their careers in Canada. By connecting candidates with supportive employers and providing essential settlement services, the NBCWP aims to enhance the economic landscape of New Brunswick while helping newcomers build successful lives in the province. For those considering this pathway, the possibilities are abundant—take the first step toward your future in New Brunswick today!