In November 2022, the New Brunswick provincial government introduced the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) to attract skilled foreign workers while addressing labor shortages in key industries.
Unlike most Canadian immigration programs, the NBCWP is employer-driven, meaning candidates must receive a job offer from one of six selected employers to qualify. These employers actively support workers through:
- Housing & transportation assistance
- On-the-job skills development & career growth
- Up to 200 hours of language training
- Help in obtaining Canadian secondary education equivalency
This program is set to run for five years, connecting workers with full-time, permanent jobs in New Brunswick, Canada.
Key Points of the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP)
The table below summarizes the main details of the NBCWP:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) |
| Launched In | November 2022 |
| Duration | 5 Years |
| Program Type | Employer-Driven Pilot Program |
| Host Province | New Brunswick, Canada |
| Target Candidates | Skilled Foreign Workers |
| Eligibility Criteria | Job Offer from a Participating Employer + NBPNP Requirements |
| Participating Employers | Cooke Aquaculture, Groupe Savoie, Groupe Westco, Imperial Manufacturing, J.D. Irving, McCain Foods |
| Support for Workers | Housing, Transportation, Language Training, Job Skills Training, Education Support |
| Application Process | Direct Application through Employer |
| Job Types Available | Manufacturing, Food Processing, Agriculture, Engineering, Logistics, Shipbuilding, Forestry |
Who Are the Participating Employers?
Six employers in New Brunswick have been selected for the NBCWP based on their strong track record of hiring foreign workers. These employers represent key sectors of the New Brunswick economy.
Related Post: Wells Mountain Initiative Scholarship 2025
1. Cooke Aquaculture Inc. (Seafood & Marine Industry)
Cooke Aquaculture Inc. is a family-owned seafood company that has been operating for over 35 years in Atlantic Canada. It is one of the largest aquaculture businesses in North America, involved in:
- Salmon farming
- Fish processing
- Seafood distribution & marketing
Positions Cooke Aquaculture May Hire For:
| Category | Positions Available |
|---|---|
| Aquaculture & Marine | Saltwater Aquaculture Worker, Hatchery Technician, Fish Health Manager, Marine Technician |
| Processing & Plant | Fish Processor, Quality Assurance Manager, Maintenance Technician |
| Logistics & Transportation | Truck Driver, Dispatcher, Local Delivery Driver |
2. Groupe Savoie Inc. (Hardwood Processing Industry)
Groupe Savoie specializes in the production of high-quality hardwood products, including furniture components, ecological fuels, and lumber. The company has been in operation since 1978 and is a key employer in New Brunswick’s forestry industry.
Positions Groupe Savoie May Hire For:
| Category | Positions Available |
|---|---|
| Maintenance & Technical | Millwright, Welder, Building Maintenance Technician |
| Logistics & Supply Chain | Truck Driver, Warehouse Coordinator |
| Production & Manufacturing | Wood Processing Technician, Quality Control Inspector |
3. Groupe Westco (Poultry & Food Production Industry)
Groupe Westco is one of Canada’s largest poultry farming enterprises, based in Saint-François de Madawaska, New Brunswick. The company has expanded into:
- Food production
- Organic fertilizer production
- Transportation & distribution
Positions Groupe Westco May Hire For:
| Category | Positions Available |
|---|---|
| Poultry Farming & Production | Poultry Farm Worker, Hatchery Technician, Food Production Technician |
| Logistics & Distribution | Truck Driver, Transportation Coordinator |
| Quality & Safety | Quality Control Inspector |
4. Imperial Manufacturing Group (HVAC & Construction Materials)
Imperial Manufacturing Group (IMG) is a leading manufacturer of air distribution & construction products for the HVAC and building industries. The company has been named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies.
Positions Imperial Manufacturing May Hire For:
| Category | Positions Available |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing & Production | Welder, Millwright, Machinery Operator |
| Logistics & Supply Chain | Transportation Coordinator, Forklift Operator |
| Engineering & Technical | PLC Programmer, Mechanical Engineer |
5. J.D. Irving, Limited (Forestry, Manufacturing & Shipbuilding)
J.D. Irving, Limited is one of Canada’s largest private corporations, founded in 1882. The company is involved in multiple industries, including:
- Shipbuilding
- Forestry & Construction
- Retail & Agriculture
Positions J.D. Irving May Hire For:
| Category | Positions Available |
|---|---|
| Shipbuilding & Manufacturing | Metal Fabricator, Welder, Production Supervisor |
| Engineering & Technical | Engineer, Industrial Technician, Safety Trainer |
| Procurement & Logistics | Material Management Specialist, Procurement Specialist |
6. McCain Foods (Frozen Food & Agriculture)
McCain Foods is the world’s largest frozen French fry producer, founded in 1957. The company has subsidiaries in over 160 countries and earns $14 billion annually.
Positions McCain Foods May Hire For:
| Category | Positions Available |
|---|---|
| Food Production & Processing | Potato Receiver, Sanitation Labourer |
| Engineering & Research | Process Engineer, Sensory Scientist |
| Agriculture & Logistics | Truck Driver, Supply Chain Coordinator |
Eligibility Criteria for NBCWP
To qualify for the NBCWP, applicants must:
- Have a full-time job offer from a participating employer
- Meet the base requirements of the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
- Possess relevant skills & work experience
- Commit to working & living in New Brunswick long-term
How to Apply for the NBCWP
- Find a job with one of the six participating employers
- Confirm eligibility under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
- Submit your application through the employer
- Await approval & immigration processing
Visit Employer Websites for Job Openings
Conclusion
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) is an excellent immigration opportunity for skilled workers looking to build careers in Canada. With employer-backed settlement support, guaranteed job offers, and long-term opportunities, this program provides a strong pathway to permanent residency in Canada.
Stay updated on Canadian immigration news & job opportunities!
