Whether you’re starting a career or starting over, it can be difficult to decide where to look. Many of us want good, well-paying jobs that are challenging, rewarding and that can make a difference. That isn’t always easy to find. One place to consider looking is in one of Canada’s most advanced industries, which is also seeing more potential than ever before.
Canada’s nuclear sector is growing
Canada’s nuclear workforce spans the entire nuclear supply chain, from uranium mining and fuel production to reactor construction, operations, refurbishment, regulation and waste management.
The Canadian Nuclear Association’s 2026 workforce study examined planned and signalled nuclear projects in Ontario, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick and Alberta. Under that scenario, the projects could represent approximately 22.3 gigawatts of new nuclear capacity by 2050.
Today, Saskatchewan’s mines produce the highest-grade uranium ore on Earth, and account for almost a quarter of the world’s annual supply. CANDU (Canada Deuterium Uranium) reactors, designed in Ontario, are providing power in Canada and other countries around the world, including South Korea, Argentina and Romania. Our nuclear sector also produces life-saving medical isotopes used in diagnostic scans and cancer treatment.
According to the Canadian Nuclear Association, the number of people employed in the sector has risen by 17 per cent in the last five years. Recent developments are also driving new expansion, which means even more potential job opportunities.
Many countries are looking for new, cleaner energy sources, including nuclear power, and Canada is diversifying its trade and entering new markets. This means more potential for growth and also better protects the sector from downturns in any one market. It also means more stable jobs in the industry.
There are a range of jobs in nuclear power
It takes a wide variety of professionals and skilled tradespeople to support the sector, including:
- Technicians, engineers and control room operators on site.
- Miners and metallurgists to produce uranium fuel.
- Manufacturers to make the components for reactors.
The industry also requires many safety specialists, inspectors and health workers to make sure people and the environment stay safe through every step of generating nuclear power.
What if you trained outside Canada?
For internationally trained professionals, the requirements will depend heavily on the occupation.
Don’t assume you have to start over — but don’t assume your credentials automatically transfer either. Some jobs require Canadian certification or licensing. For example, Ontario Power Generation (OPG), Ontario’s largest electricity generator, says its Mechanical Technician, Electrical & Control Technician and Inspection & Maintenance Technician positions require a Certificate of Qualification, depending on the role.
OPG also offers a four-year nuclear apprenticeship program, while its Nuclear Operator In-Training program provides a pathway into nuclear operations.
The best starting point is to identify the Canadian occupation that most closely matches your international experience, then check whether that occupation is regulated and what certification or education is required in the province where you want to work.
For example, an internationally trained mechanical engineer shouldn’t search only for “nuclear engineer.” Your experience may also be relevant to mechanical, project, reliability, components or other engineering roles.
Check Canadian occupational requirements through Job Bank
Your work can help Canadians
Nuclear power is already providing clean energy to millions of Canadians. The increased revenue from more diverse trade also comes back into communities across the country. It supports services and programs Canadians rely on, including our roads, healthcare, education and pensions. By pursuing a career in the nuclear sector, you can help keep the future bright for yourself, your community and for Canada.
With inputs from News Canada