Food Service Job Visas in Alberta Canada

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The restaurant industry in Canada is a vibrant mix of diverse cuisines, from family-run eateries to large international chains. However, it faced significant challenges during the pandemic. Before COVID-19, Canada had 97,569 food and drink establishments. The restaurant and accommodation industry employs 1.2 million people.

In March 2020, restaurant sales were $4 billion, compared to $6.2 billion in March 2019. Over two-thirds of restaurants were operating at a loss in early 2021. Victoria had the highest number of restaurants per capita, with 4.6 restaurants per 1,000 residents. Tim Hortons stood as the largest restaurant chain in Canada, boasting 3,531 locations across provinces and territories.

After the pandemic, it seems Canadians have returned to restaurants, with sales reaching $6.8 billion in March 2022 and $7.7 billion in March 2023. However, there were three times as many vacancies in the restaurant industry in 2022 compared to before the pandemic. 80% of Canadian restaurants had to take on debt during the pandemic.

The food and accommodation industry accounted for 6.4% of Canada’s total employment in 2019. In 2021, the industry had a market size of $40.134 billion and fulfilled all predictions by growing to $55.089 billion in 2022. Between 2006 and 2016, restaurant sales grew 50%, outpacing population growth at 11.4%. Recent studies have discovered that approximately 54% of Canadians eat out at least once per week.

As of 2024, the industry continues to adapt to trends like “eatertainment,” sustainability, and AI-powered personalization. Food service workers are highly needed in Canada, making it a viable pathway for immigrants seeking Canadian permanent residency.

Most In-demand Food Service Jobs in Canada

The food and beverage industry offers a variety of exciting job opportunities. Here are some of the most in-demand food service jobs:

1- Server:

Common Responsibilities: Takes and delivers customer orders, clears tables, and ensures an enjoyable dining experience.
National Average Salary: $32,845 per year.

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2- Cook:

Common Responsibilities: Prepares food to fill customer orders and specifications promptly. Cooks may specialize as sauce cooks, fry cooks, boiler cooks, or pastry cooks.
National Average Salary: $31,037 per year.

3- Restaurant Manager:

Common Responsibilities: Handles customer service issues, food supply, quality, and staffing. Ensures health and safety practices are followed.
National Average Salary: $55,384 per year.

4- Line Cook:

Common Responsibilities: Preps, cooks, and plates food for customers based on order specifications. Works under a head chef or sous chef in a specific kitchen area (e.g., grill or vegetable preparation station).
National Average Salary: $28,922 per year.

5- Host:

Common Responsibilities: Processes reservations, directs customers to their tables, and provides menus and silverware. Creates a great first impression and practices excellent customer service.
National Average Salary: $30,801 per year.

6- Dishwasher:

Common Responsibilities: Washes dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Keeps the kitchen clean and organized.
National Average Salary: Varies based on location and establishment.

7- Restaurant Staff (Various Roles):

Includes roles like bussers, barbacks, and food runners. These positions support the overall restaurant operation.
Responsibilities: Clearing tables, assisting bartenders, and ensuring smooth service.

8- Bartender:

Common Responsibilities: Mixes and serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Provides excellent customer service at the bar.
National Average Salary: Varies based on location and establishment.

Essential Skills For Food Service Role in Canada

Success in the food service industry in Canada requires a combination of technical skills, interpersonal abilities, and a strong work ethic. Whether you’re a server, cook, manager, or bartender, here are some essential skills:

1- Customer Service Skills:

Active Listening: Understand customer needs and preferences.
Patience: Remain calm even during busy or challenging moments.
Empathy: Show understanding and compassion toward customers.

2- Communication Skills:

Clear Communication: Explain menu items, take orders accurately, and convey information to kitchen staff.
Team Communication**: Collaborate with coworkers effectively.

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3- Time Management:

Prioritization: Juggle multiple tasks efficiently (e.g., taking orders, serving, and cleaning).
Speed: Work quickly during peak hours without compromising quality.

4- Food Safety and Hygiene:

Safe Food Handling: Understand proper food storage, cooking temperatures, and hygiene practices.
Health Regulations: Comply with local health department guidelines.

5- Adaptability:

Flexibility: Adapt to changing schedules, customer demands, and unexpected situations.
Problem-Solving: Resolve issues promptly (e.g., handling customer complaints or kitchen mishaps).

6- Physical Stamina:

Standing: Food service roles involve long hours on your feet.
Lifting: Carry trays, dishes, and supplies.

7- Menu Knowledge:

Ingredients: Understand menu items, including allergens and dietary restrictions.
Pairing Suggestions: Recommend wine or beverage pairings if applicable.

8- Teamwork:

Collaboration: Work well with kitchen staff, bartenders, and fellow servers.
Support: Help coworkers during busy times.

9- Attention to Detail:

Accuracy: Get orders right and pay attention to special requests.
Presentation: Ensure dishes look appealing.

10- Conflict Resolution:

Calmness: Handle disagreements or difficult customers professionally.
De-escalation: Defuse tense situations.

11- Cash Handling (for servers):

Math Skills: Calculate bills, make changes, and handle cash transactions.

12- Wine and Beverage Knowledge (for bartenders and servers):

Wine Pairing: Understand wine varieties and their compatibility with different dishes.
Mixology: Know cocktail recipes and techniques.

Visa Pathways For Food Service Jobs in Alberta Canada

For those interested in food service job visas in Alberta, Canada, there are several pathways you can explore. Alberta is known for its diverse culinary scene, and there’s a demand for skilled workers in the food industry. Here are some options:

1- Temporary Work Permits:

If you’re looking for short-term employment, you can apply for a temporary work permit. Employers in Alberta often hire foreign workers for positions like cooks, servers, and kitchen staff. To be eligible, you’ll need a job offer from an Alberta employer. The employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact the Canadian job market. Once you have the LMIA, you can apply for a work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

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2- Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

If you’re interested in permanent residency, consider the Express Entry system. It’s a points-based system that assesses your eligibility based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Alberta has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) called the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). Through AINP, you can apply for a provincial nomination, which can boost your Express Entry profile. The AINP has specific streams for skilled workers, including those in the food service industry. If you meet the criteria, you may receive an invitation to apply for provincial nomination.

In-Demand Occupations:

Alberta identifies certain occupations as in demand based on labor market needs. As of 2023, some of the in-demand jobs include:

Cooks (NOC 6322)
Food and Beverage Servers (NOC 6513)
Delivery and Courier Service Drivers (NOC 7514)
Retail Sales Associates (NOC 6421)
Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 7511)
Farm and Harvesting Workers (NOCs 8431 and 8611)

Job Search and Networking:

To begin your application, you must start by researching Alberta’s job market. You should try looking for openings in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and catering services. You can also network with industry professionals, attend job fairs, and explore online job boards. Connect with local immigrant-serving organizations that can guide job search and settlement. Remember that each pathway has specific requirements, and it’s essential to stay informed about updates and changes. Whether you’re pursuing temporary work or aiming for permanent residency, thorough research and preparation are key. Good luck on your journey to working in Alberta’s vibrant food service industry!