The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) is an innovative five-year immigration initiative launched in November 2022 by the provincial government of New Brunswick, Canada, in collaboration with the federal government. This program aims to address critical labor shortages across various sectors by attracting and retaining skilled foreign workers. What sets the NBCWP apart is its comprehensive approach, not only facilitating economic immigration but also ensuring the successful integration and long-term retention of newcomers through extensive settlement support services.
Program Overview
The NBCWP is designed to fill labor gaps in industries such as manufacturing, fisheries, food production, forestry, and farming. By partnering with six selected employers known for their exemplary human resources practices and history of hiring immigrants, the program ensures that newcomers receive the necessary support to establish themselves in New Brunswick communities.
Participating Employers and Potential Positions
The six employers participating in the NBCWP are:
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Cooke Aquaculture Inc.: A family-owned enterprise operating for over 35 years in sustainable aquaculture. They are involved in salmon farming, fish processing, and related activities. Potential positions include Aquaculture Technician, Fish Processing Plant Worker, and Marine Equipment Operator.
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Groupe Savoie Inc.: Specializes in hardwood processing, managing all stages from harvesting to manufacturing high-quality hardwood products. Job opportunities may include Production Worker, Maintenance Technician, and Quality Control Inspector. I
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Groupe Westco: One of Canada’s largest poultry farming operations, based in Saint-François de Madawaska. They have diversified into food production and transportation. Positions might include Poultry Farm Worker, Hatchery Technician, and Food Production Operator.
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Imperial Manufacturing Group: A leading manufacturer in the HVAC and construction industries, producing a wide range of air distribution products. Potential roles include Production Supervisor, Welder, and Machine Operator.
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J.D. Irving Ltd.: A diversified conglomerate with operations in agriculture, construction, shipbuilding, and forestry. Job openings may include positions such as Metal Fabricator, Industrial Mechanic, and Logistics Coordinator.
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McCain Foods: The world’s largest manufacturer of frozen French fries, headquartered in Florenceville, New Brunswick. They operate in over 160 countries. Potential positions include Production Line Worker, Quality Assurance Technician, and Maintenance Engineer.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Settlement Support Services
A distinctive feature of the NBCWP is the emphasis on comprehensive settlement support to ensure that newcomers not only arrive but thrive in New Brunswick. Participating employers are committed to providing:
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Housing and Transportation Assistance: Developing robust plans to facilitate the successful establishment of candidates in their new communities, with a strong focus on long-term retention.
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Human Resources Planning: Implementing strategic HR practices for recruiting and hiring skilled international talent, along with opportunities for on-the-job skills enhancement.
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Language Training: Offering up to 200 hours of language instruction, as required, to help candidates improve their communication skills in English or French.
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Educational Support: Providing guidance and assistance to candidates who wish to pursue their Canadian secondary education equivalency, facilitating further personal and professional development.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Application Process
The NBCWP is an employer-driven program, meaning that applications are made through the participating employers. The process involves:
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Job Offer: Securing a genuine offer of full-time (non-seasonal), permanent (indeterminate) employment from one of the participating employers.
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Expression of Interest (EOI): Creating an EOI through the New Brunswick online portal, indicating your interest in the program.
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Application Submission: Submitting a complete application to the Government of New Brunswick, including all required documentation.
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Settlement Plan: Developing a settlement plan in collaboration with the employer to ensure a smooth transition to life in New Brunswick.
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Permanent Residence Application: After nomination, submitting your application for permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot represents a significant opportunity for skilled foreign workers seeking to build a new life in Canada. By addressing critical labor shortages and providing comprehensive support services, the NBCWP not only benefits the provincial economy but also ensures that newcomers have the resources and assistance needed to successfully integrate into their new communities. For those interested in this pathway, engaging directly with the participating employers is the first step toward unlocking the opportunities that await in New Brunswick
