In order to address critical labour shortages in various sectors and regions, New Brunswick introduced the Critical Worker Pilot, a five-year program designed to attract skilled workers to occupations that are challenging to fill within the province. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between the demand for skilled workers and the available workforce by providing a streamlined pathway for employers and potential candidates.

How Does the Critical Worker Pilot Work?

The Critical Worker Pilot is an employer-driven stream, meaning that employers play a key role in the recruitment process. The program focuses on targeted recruitment for skilled workers, and individuals interested in participating must apply through a participating employer. The program does not accept direct applications from candidates.

Employer Participation

The selection of employers in the pilot is based on their demonstrated experience and consistent use of both provincial and federal economic immigration programs over the past three years. Additionally, employers are chosen based on their ability to provide enhanced support for newcomer settlement, skills development, and language training for employees. The pilot is currently limited in its scope, but ongoing evaluations may open up opportunities for broader employer participation in the future.

Employers interested in exploring how New Brunswick’s economic immigration programs can support their workforce needs can find more information here.

Who Are the Participant Employers?

Several prominent companies are participating in the Critical Worker Pilot, including Cooke Aquaculture, J.D. Irving Ltd., Groupe Savoie, Groupe Westco, Imperial Manufacturing Group, and McCain Foods, Ltd.

Candidate Participation

Potential candidates looking to join the Critical Worker Pilot need to understand that the program is employer-driven. Applications are made through the participant employer, and there is no direct application process for interested individuals. To qualify, the candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements.  If all eligibility requirements have been met, they will be assessed according to the selection factors of: age, language proficiency, education, and occupation in demand.

Stages of Approval

The approval process for candidates involves two stages:

1. Apply for a Nomination Certificate

Candidates meeting eligibility requirements and selection factors, with the support of their New Brunswick employer, can apply by submitting an online application. Processing times vary, and some candidates may be asked to attend an interview.

2. Apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Once nominated by the Government of New Brunswick, the candidates must apply to the Government of Canada for Work Permit and Permanent Residence (PR) through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). However, receiving a nomination does not guarantee approval from IRCC, as the candidates and their dependents must meet various requirements.

To explore job opportunities in New Brunswick, click here.

If you’re interested in upcoming information and recruitment events, click here.

The Critical Worker Pilot serves as a promising avenue for both employers seeking skilled workers and individuals looking to contribute their expertise to New Brunswick’s workforce.

Are you participating?