Nuclear Construction Jobs in Canada: A Complete Guide for Skilled Workers and Engineers (2026)

Whether you’re an engineer, project manager, skilled tradesperson, or construction professional, now is an ideal time to explore opportunities in Canada’s nuclear industry. As a specialist recruitment agency in infrastructure, Outpost Recruitment connects top talent with leading nuclear employers nationwide. 

This article provides a deep dive into nuclear construction in Canada, current hiring trends, SMR development, upcoming projects, and the roles most in demand.

Why Nuclear Construction Jobs Are Growing in Canada 

Several major trends are driving the surge in hiring across the nuclear sector:

Canada relies heavily on nuclear power

• Canada operates 19 nuclear reactors across three major sites.

• Nuclear energy provides ~15% of Canada’s electricity and over 60% of Ontario’s grid.

• Ontario’s climate strategy depends on nuclear to power electrification and population growth.

This ensures a continuous pipeline of nuclear construction and maintenance work.

Major refurbishment programs

Mega plants in operation creates mega refurbishment and maintenance programs Refurbishment of existing reactors involves multi-year, multibillion-dollar construction efforts.  

SMRs are creating a new wave of nuclear construction

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are a game-changer for Canada’s energy future—with new design, construction, and deployment opportunities emerging nationwide. 

Canada’s global leadership in nuclear

Canada has a uniquely strong ecosystem: 

• CANDU reactor technology. The CANDU (Canada deuterium uranium) is a Canadian pressurized heavy-water reactor design used to generate electric power. After nuclear energy lost poplularity between In October 2011, the Canadian Federal Government licensed the CANDU design to Candu Energy (a wholly owned subsidiary of SNC-Lavalin, now the AtkinsRéalis Group Inc.) 

• World-class uranium resources 

• Advanced regulatory standards 

• Experienced nuclear construction workforce 

This environment attracts investment and creates long-term job stability. 

Existing Nuclear Power Stations in Canada 

Canada’s operating reactors form the backbone of the country’s nuclear construction industry: 

Bruce Power, Lake Huron (Ontario)

• World’s largest nuclear station by output 

• Undergoing major component replacement (MCR) 

• One of the largest infrastructure projects in Canadian history 

Darlington Nuclear Generating Station (Ontario)

• Four CANDU reactors.  

• Extensive refurbishment program from 2016 – 2026 

• Future site of Canada’s first grid-scale SMR (BWRX-300) 

Pickering Nuclear Generating Station (Ontario)

• Six operational reactors 

• Potential refurbishment/ life extension 

• Would create thousands of skilled nuclear construction jobs 

These sites collectively drive continuous construction hiring across Ontario. 

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): The Next Frontier of Nuclear Construction Jobs in Canada 

SMRs represent the most significant new nuclear opportunity in decades. They are: 

• Modular and factory-built 

• Lower-cost than traditional reactors 

• Designed with advanced safety features 

• Ideal for remote communities, industry, and grid support 

Canada is becoming a world leader in SMR deployment. 

Key SMR Projects in Canada 

Darlington SMR (Ontario) 

• GE Hitachi BWRX-300 reactor 

• Construction anticipated later this decade 

• North America’s first commercial SMR project 

Saskatchewan SMR Program 

• SaskPower assessing BWRX-300 sites 

• Planned deployment in the early-to-mid 2030s 

• Will require a new nuclear construction workforce in Western Canada 

Chalk River MMR Demonstration (Ontario) 

• Micro Modular Reactor (MMR) 

• Partnership between OPG, USNC, and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories 

• Demonstration for remote and industrial applications 

Northern Canada – Industrial SMR Projects 

• Mining companies assessing SMRs for heat and power 

• Could dramatically reduce reliance on diesel in remote communities 

SMRs will expand nuclear construction jobs well beyond Ontario into new provinces and industries.  

Major Nuclear Construction Projects Creating Jobs (2025–2040) 

Ongoing 

• Bruce Power MCR (Major Component Replacement) – $13bn

• Darlington Refurbishment Program – $12.8bn

• Pickering life-extension planning – $1.1bn

• Chalk River Laboratories  $500m

Upcoming 

• Darlington SMR (BWRX-300) – $6.1bn

• Saskatchewan SMR deployment – $12bn+

• Chalk River MMR demonstration project – $17.7bn

• Future CANDU or SMR expansions in Ontario and Western Canada

These projects require large, multi-disciplinary teams over many years, providing long-term employment stability. 

Most In-Demand Nuclear Construction Jobs in Canada 

The nuclear sector requires a mix of engineering, construction, skilled trades, and project support roles. The following jobs are in particularly high demand: 

Engineering & Technical Roles 

• Mechanical Engineer 

• Electrical & I&C Engineer 

• Civil / Structural Engineer 

Construction & Project Management Roles 

• Project Manager & Construction Manager 

• Design Manager 

• Site Superintendent 

• Project Engineer 

• Field Engineer 

• Cost Controller 

• Quantity Surveyor 

• Scheduler 

• Estimator 

• Procurement & supply-chain professionals 

Many employers also welcome talent from mining, oil & gas, or industrial construction who are willing to complete nuclear training.

Skills Employers Look For in Nuclear Construction Candidates 

To compete for nuclear construction jobs in Canada, candidates should demonstrate: 

• Experience in heavy industrial or energy megaprojects 

• Familiarity with nuclear-grade quality standards (CSA N-series, NQA-1) 

• Commitment to safety, procedural compliance, and documentation 

• Ability to pass security clearance and background checks 

• Experience with shutdowns, commissioning, or refurbishment work 

• Willingness to complete nuclear-specific training programs 

International experience—especially in nuclear or large-scale energy projects—is highly valued. 

Why Outpost Recruitment Is the Trusted Partner for Nuclear Construction Jobs in Canada 

Outpost Recruitment supports nuclear utilities, EPCs, engineering firms, and contractors across Canada. We provide candidates with: 

• Access to exclusive nuclear job openings as they become available 

• Guidance on certifications, clearances, and onboarding 

• Support for international candidates relocating to Canada 

• Immigration pathway advice and expected timelines 

• Market insights and long-term career planning 

Whether you’re a seasoned nuclear professional or exploring the sector for the first time, Outpost Recruitment can help you navigate opportunities on Canada’s largest and most important energy projects. 

Start Your Career in Nuclear Construction in Canada 

With decades of refurbishment work, SMR deployment, and national clean-energy commitments, the demand for nuclear construction talent will remain strong for years to come. 

What’s next?

Explore nuclear construction jobs in Canada with Outpost Recruitment

Contact us to discuss your background and career goals  

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