Canadian Work Experience

As a newcomer, lack of Canadian work experience may be a challenge you encounter when seeking employment.  Many Canadian employers want to hire individuals who have work experience within Canada.  Canadian work experience may be a requirement or an employer preference, in both regulated and non-regulated occupations.  There are a number of ways to gain Canadian work experience:

Volunteering

Although it is unpaid volunteer work is an excellent way to gain Canadian work experience and it will help you:

• gain practical knowledge of the Canadian workplace;
• practise your English or French;
• develop your network and access the hidden job market;
• obtain Canadian references; and
• develop new skills.

For information on volunteer opportunities in Durham Region, visit the following websites:

• Volunteer Energy
• Volunteer Services Ajax, Pickering, Whitby
• Volunteer Durham
• Community Development Council of Durham 

Part-time or Temporary Work

Part-time work allows for a reduced work week. Temporary work is to fill a position for a specific period of time (e.g. with a start and end date).   For information on opportunities and resources about part time work in Durham, visit:

• Durham Region Employment Network
• Links to Other Job Search Sites
• Canada’s National Job Bank

Bridging Programs

These programs help newcomers get their license or certificate in their profession or trade so that they can work in Ontario.  To find information on Bridging and Employment Programs visit:

• Bridging program through Enhanced Language Training at Durham Continuing Education
• About Ontario’s Bridge Training Programs

Practice Firms

A Practice Firm is a program that simulates the functions of a real business.  This is a way to practice job skills and learn about Canadian workplaces. 

Practice Firms near Durham Region include:

• Simplicious (Catering firm)
• Simpressions (Printing business)
• SimFit – Fitness Club

For a list of Practice Firms in Ontario, visit the Canadian Practice Firms website.

Networking Programs (Mentorship)

Mentorship programs provide an opportunity to meet people in your profession and learn about Canadian workplaces.  For information and opportunities on networking or mentorship programs near Durham Region visit the following websites:

• Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council
• Skills for Change
• The Mentoring Partnership
• Government of Ontario - Immigration