High-demand IT Jobs in Canada 2026

Are you hoping to be part of one of the high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026? You are not alone. The tech industry is thriving. There is a high demand for skilled workers in tech jobs in Canada.

In 2026, some of the best career opportunities will be in technology: software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity are among the top fields. It is the perfect time to enter one of Canada's high-demand IT careers with competitive salaries and job growth.

This guide outlines the top 20 high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026. We review skills, universities, and salaries for each job on the list to help you make educated decisions when considering your career.

Top 20 High-Demand IT Jobs in Canada in 2026

The demand for information technology (IT) professionals in Canada is rising quickly, with companies seeking experienced workers in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development.

If you are an experienced IT worker seeking employment in Canada, the job landscape is promising, with a wide variety of job options. Finding high-paying, potentially remote, IT jobs in Canada from overseas is the perfect opportunity for new IT professionals.

The knowledge of which positions offer the best salary and advancement will serve as a good guide for your potential career path planning, whether you are a new or experienced IT worker.

Here's a look at the top 20 high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026, for international students looking for a career in IT in Canada.

• Cloud Architect
• Data Scientist
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Cybersecurity Engineer
• Software Engineer/Developer
• DevOps Engineer
• AI Specialist
• Business Systems Analyst
• ERP Business Analyst
• CRM Developer
• Full-Stack Developer
• IT Manager
• Data Analyst
• Systems Administrator
• Project Manager (Software)
• Project Manager (Infrastructure)
• Linux/Unix Administrator
• Cloud Computing Specialist
• AI Governance Analyst
• Desktop Support Analyst

The high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026 range from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, to software development and cloud computing. By obtaining the right skills, certifications, and experience, individuals may be able to pursue high-paying IT jobs in Canada which lead to stable and enjoyable careers. 

Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects design, implement, and manage cloud-based solutions to support business operations. This role is among the high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026, offering strong career prospects and high salaries.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), networking, security, automation
  • Soft: Communication, leadership, problem-solving
  • Problem-solving: Architecting scalable and resilient cloud solutions
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo, University of Alberta, Simon Fraser University, York University, Humber College, Conestoga College, Lambton College
• Cloud Architect salary: CA $75,000 - $95,000+

Data Scientist

Data Scientists analyse large datasets to uncover insights that drive business decisions. This profession ranks among the fastest-growing IT careers in Canada, with strong demand across industries.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Python, R, SQL, machine learning, statistics
  • Soft: Communication, teamwork, curiosity
  • Problem-solving: Data analysis, predictive modeling
• Popular Universities: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo, McGill University, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, York University (Schulich School of Business), Western University (Ivey Business School), Queen's University (Smith School of Business), Ryerson University/Toronto Metropolitan University, Carleton University
• Data Scientist salary: CA $60,000 - $85,000

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers develop and deploy AI models, contributing to one of the most in-demand IT careers in Canada. Their work powers automation and intelligent systems.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, deep learning
  • Soft: Collaboration, adaptability
  • Problem-solving: Developing and optimising ML models
• Popular Universities: University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, University of Alberta, McGill University, University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal (MILA), York University, Simon Fraser University, Carleton University
• Machine Learning Engineer salary: CA $70,000 - $95,000

Cybersecurity Engineer

Cybersecurity Engineers protect businesses from cyber threats by implementing security measures. This role offers some of the best IT jobs in Canada 2026, with increasing demand.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Network security, ethical hacking, security tools
  • Soft: Attention to detail, critical thinking
  • Problem-solving: Threat detection and mitigation
• Popular Universities: University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, Concordia University, University of New Brunswick, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Ontario Tech University, Seneca College, Sheridan College
• Cybersecurity Engineer salary: CA $65,000 - $90,000

Software Engineer/Developer

Software Engineers create, test, and maintain applications, making this a core part of IT job opportunities in Canada. Skilled professionals are needed across industries.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Java, C++, JavaScript, software design
  • Soft: Teamwork, time management
  • Problem-solving: Debugging, algorithm development
• Popular Universities: University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Alberta, McMaster University, Queen's University, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Concordia University, Sheridan College, George Brown College, BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology)
• Software Engineer/Developer salary: CA $60,000 - $85,000

DevOps Engineer

DevOps Engineers streamline development processes through automation and collaboration. This role is key in high-paying IT jobs in Canada for 2026.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: CI/CD, containerisation, infrastructure as code
  • Soft: Collaboration, communication
  • Problem-solving: Optimising development and operations processes
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, Lambton College
• DevOps Engineer salary: CA $65,000 - $90,000

AI Specialist

AI Specialists develop artificial intelligence solutions, playing a crucial role in fastest-growing IT careers in Canada by enhancing automation and analytics.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Machine learning, neural networks, NLP
  • Soft: Creativity, analytical thinking
  • Problem-solving: Developing AI solutions for complex problems
• Popular Universities: University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, University of Alberta, McGill University, University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal (MILA), York University, Simon Fraser University, Carleton University
• AI Specialist salary: CA $70,000 - $95,000

Business Systems Analyst

Business Systems Analysts bridge technology and business needs, making this a sought-after role in IT job opportunities in Canada.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Business process modelling, requirements gathering
  • Soft: Communication, stakeholder management
  • Problem-solving: Analysing and improving business processes
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management), University of British Columbia (Sauder School of Business), University of Waterloo, York University (Schulich School of Business), HEC Montréal, Ryerson University/Toronto Metropolitan University (Ted Rogers School of Management), Simon Fraser University (Beedie School of Business), Loyalist College
• Business Systems Analyst salary: CA $55,000 - $75,000

ERP Business Analyst

ERP Business Analysts optimise enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, helping businesses improve efficiency. This role is among the high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026 as companies continue to invest in digital transformation.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: ERP systems (SAP, Oracle), business process mapping
  • Soft: Project management, attention to detail
  • Problem-solving: Optimising ERP implementations
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management), University of British Columbia (Sauder School of Business), University of Waterloo, York University (Schulich School of Business), HEC Montréal, Ryerson University/Toronto Metropolitan University (Ted Rogers School of Management), Simon Fraser University (Beedie School of Business), Loyalist College
• ERP Business Analyst salary: CA $60,000 - $80,000

CRM Developer

CRM Developers customise and maintain customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, a critical function in IT job opportunities in Canada for businesses focused on customer engagement.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: CRM platforms (Salesforce, Dynamics), customisation
  • Soft: Client-facing communication, adaptability
  • Problem-solving: Developing CRM solutions for business needs
• Popular Universities: University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Alberta, Ryerson University/Toronto Metropolitan University, Simon Fraser University
• CRM Developer salary: CA $60,000 - $80,000

Looking for admission to one of the top universities in Canada to pursue IT courses and worried about navigating the complex application process? Get in touch with our AECC Counsellors as we shortlist the best universities according to your profile and assist you with the application process for free. 

Full-Stack Developer

Full-Stack Developers work on both front-end and back-end technologies, making this a top choice in most in-demand IT careers in Canada due to its versatility.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Front-end and back-end technologies, databases
  • Soft: Multitasking, continuous learning
  • Problem-solving: End-to-end application development
• Popular Universities: University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Alberta, McMaster University, Queen's University, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Concordia University, Sheridan College, George Brown College, BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology)
• Full-Stack Developer salary: CA $60,000 - $85,000

IT Manager

IT Managers oversee an organisation's technology operations, making this one of the high-paying IT jobs in Canada with leadership opportunities.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: IT infrastructure, project management
  • Soft: Leadership, strategic thinking
  • Problem-solving: IT resource allocation, technology planning
• Popular Universities: University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management, School of Continuing Studies), University of British Columbia (Sauder School of Business), York University (Schulich School of Business), Queen's University (Smith School of Business), Western University (Ivey Business School)
• IT Manager salary: CA $70,000 - $95,000

Data Analyst

Data Analysts interpret and visualise data to guide business strategies. This job is part of the high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026, with demand across industries.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: SQL, data visualisation, statistical analysis
  • Soft: Attention to detail, presentation skills
  • Problem-solving: Extracting insights from complex datasets
• Popular Universities: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo, McGill University, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, York University (Schulich School of Business), Western University (Ivey Business School), Queen's University (Smith School of Business), Ryerson University/Toronto Metropolitan University, Carleton University
• Data Analyst salary: CA $50,000 - $70,000

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators maintain IT infrastructure, ensuring reliable operations. This role remains crucial in IT job opportunities in Canada for 2026.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Windows/Linux administration, networking
  • Soft: Troubleshooting, time management
  • Problem-solving: System optimisation and maintenance
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, Seneca College, Humber College, George Brown College, NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology), SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology), Canadian College for Higher Studies
• Systems Administrator salary: CA $50,000 - $70,000

Project Manager (Software)

Software Project Managers lead development teams and oversee IT projects. It is a key position in high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026 for professionals with strong technical and leadership skills.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Software development lifecycle, Agile methodologies
  • Soft: Leadership, risk management
  • Problem-solving: Resource allocation, project planning
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, York University (School of Continuing Studies), University of Winnipeg, Centennial College, Humber College, Sheridan College, Fanshawe College, Canadore College, Durham College, Northeastern University (Toronto campus)
• Project Manager (Software) salary: CA $65,000 - $85,000

Project Manager (Infrastructure)

Infrastructure Project Managers oversee large-scale IT projects, making them essential for high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026 in both public and private sectors.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: IT infrastructure, change management
  • Soft: Stakeholder management, communication
  • Problem-solving: Infrastructure planning and implementation
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, York University (School of Continuing Studies), University of Winnipeg, Centennial College, Humber College, Sheridan College, Fanshawe College, Canadore College, Durham College, Northeastern University (Toronto campus)
• Project Manager (Infrastructure) salary: CA $70,000 - $90,000

Linux/Unix Administrator

Linux/Unix Administrators manage server environments, making this role part of the most in-demand IT careers in Canada for enterprises relying on open-source technologies.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Linux/Unix systems, shell scripting
  • Soft: Problem-solving, attention to detail
  • Problem-solving: System troubleshooting and optimisation
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, Seneca College, Humber College, George Brown College, NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology), SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology), Canadian College for Higher Studies
• Linux/Unix Administrator salary: CA $55,000 - $75,000

Cloud Computing Specialist

Cloud Computing Specialists assist businesses in adopting cloud solutions, a crucial role in IT skills in demand 2026 as cloud adoption increases.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Cloud platforms, virtualisation, containerisation
  • Soft: Adaptability, continuous learning
  • Problem-solving: Cloud migration and optimisation
• Popular Universities and Colleges: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo, University of Alberta, Simon Fraser University, York University, Humber College, Conestoga College, Lambton College
• Cloud Computing Specialist salary: CA $60,000 - $85,000

AI Governance Analyst

AI Governance Analysts ensure ethical and regulatory compliance in AI projects, an emerging role in high-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026 as AI becomes more widespread.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: AI/ML fundamentals, data privacy regulations
  • Soft: Ethical decision-making, communication
  • Problem-solving: Developing AI governance frameworks
• Popular Universities: University of Toronto, University of Alberta, McGill University, University of Ottawa, York University
• AI Governance Analyst salary: CA $60,000 - $80,000

Desktop Support Analyst

Desktop Support Analysts troubleshoot and maintain IT hardware and software, playing a vital role in IT job opportunities in Canada for entry-level professionals.

• Required Skills:
  • Technical: Windows/Mac OS, hardware troubleshooting
  • Soft: Customer service, patience
  • Problem-solving: Quick resolution of user issues
• Popular Universities and Colleges: Seneca College, Humber College, George Brown College, Centennial College, NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology), SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology), BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology), University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, Simon Fraser University, Carleton University, Concordia University
• Desktop Support Analyst salary: CA $40,000 - $55,000

High-demand IT jobs in Canada in 2026 illustrate the growing talent pool in the areas of AI, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Software Development. Companies are proactively recruiting for talented individuals, those with the right skills can find well-paying IT jobs in Canada and enjoy a stable career for the long term.

If you are interested in learning more about IT job opportunities in Canada, the time is now. International students looking for personalised guidance on developing in-demand IT skills for 2026 and high-paying IT jobs in Canada are advised to get in touch with AECC Counsellors. Get in touch today to start your path toward a successful IT career in Canada 2026.