I'm a software architect with 10+ years experience, currently living in the East of England. Canada is on my short list of places to work. Does anyone here know what the demand is like for software architects/engineers in Ontario, more specifically Toronto/Kitchener/London area? Any idea how it compares to England or the US?

What does a software architect do?

Welcome to the forum.

Do you already have a visa, or will you require sponsorship to work in Canada? That may well make a difference as to your job prospects, as a lot of employers may not be prepared to go through the paperwork/hassle/wait of hiring you if you aren't work authorised already.

A software architect designs, and is responsible for, the overall, high-level design of a software application, as opposed to being a code monkey.

That's the general definition. I don't believe in sticking people into specialised little compartments, so for me, in order to do their job properly, architects should be darn good coders as well, and a few other things besides.

Hi christmasoompa, thanks for the reply. It's easy for the Other Half to get a TWP, so I'd be on an open work permit. That will probably take care of any work permit issues.

OK, so s/he has a job offer and LMO? What is the job s/he will be doing? (as not all jobs would get you an open work permit, it depends on his/her job).

No job offer or LMO yet, we are in the planning stages still. By talking to colleagues who've taken the plunge, we've heard it's relatively easy for the OH's profession. There is a shortage, and licensing is extremely strict - think licenced medical doctor. Yes, she's a bright spark my girl