Working Holiday Visa, Apprentice Electricain

[Timjon11]

I'm in the final stages of preparing to leave for Canada from New Zealand with my working holiday visa valid for 24 months..

I've been applying for apprentice electrician jobs in the Fort Mcmurray area and am very concerned that it wont be enough income to support me whilst I'm over there. I could apply for a technician type job, but in the long run I believe an apprentice electrician job would be more beneficial for me. I have just graduated from a 2-year diploma in Electo-technology.

I can extend my visa whilst over in Canada so I'm happy to stick out the 4 years or so to complete the apprenticeship.

Now I could always just do an apprenticeship in this country, but I fear the older I get I'll eventually get bogged down and have this opportunity lost forever. I am 26 right now.

I'm calling out to anyone that has done an electrical apprenticeship in Canada, especially in the more remote areas.. Can I expect a little more pay for working in the remote areas as an apprentice?? and could this support me whilst I'm over there? Am I maybe entitled to some sort of government subsidy if I choose to do it? (probably not, but might as well ask) Thanks everyone.

[Tsveta]

Hi Timjon11,

I am no expert in this field but if you want more pay you may want to start looking for jobs in the Yukon, Northwest and Nunavut Territories. The Territories are hardly populated and because of the cold climate the pay is significantly higher comparing to other parts of Canada. You should be prepared for almost no summer and cold temperatures. If you are up to it, you can try.

[Timjon11]

hi Tsveta,

yes I am willing to work in remote areas like yukon etc.. Yukon was actually one of the first places I looked but being so remote there arent many listings on the job websites.. however, I will need to be close to a decent size town so I'm not completely isolated. (yes there are some creature comforts that I cant be without, access to a gym is high on that list)

Working in Canada's north really appeals to me, I prefer colder climates but never lived in a climate anything close to the Canadian north. I don't have a GF so will be going by myself, hence my flexibility to work anywhere.

I didnt get a skilled worker visa, and 2 years technicians experience and a 2-year electrical diploma is all I have to my name. But making a quick buck isnt my top priority, experience in a technical job is what I'm searching for. If its in the Canadian North, even better.

Anyone's input will be much appreciated. Sorry for the Long post.

[SDuncan]

If you are form New Zealand you have to think twice before moving to Canadian North. You don't know what cold is... and besides if you are looking for career not a quick buck as you mentioned it's better to go to Alberta , BC, Ontario, anywhere actually. Right now Canada is in recession and it's not easy to get a job even for Canadians, people get laid off every day so I can't give any particular advice on job search.:(