Key Takeaways
- The title “computer engineer” is protected under the Quebec Professional Code. Only members who hold a valid license and are registered with the OIQ may use this title.
- The standard path requires a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering followed by a professional preparation program of at least 24 months.
- The average salary ranges from $74,000 to $103,000 per year depending on experience, with steady growth over the years.
- A software developer and a computer engineer do not have the same legal status in Quebec, particularly regarding the use of the reserved title.
- Internationally trained professionals may apply for recognition of their degree and a license through the OIQ.
- Certain applications benefit from simplified pathways, particularly for France and countries that are signatories to the Washington Accord.
What exactly is a computer engineer?
Before discussing salaries or education, it’s important to understand exactly what we’re talking about. And confusion with other IT job titles is more common than you might think.
Day-to-day responsibilities
A computer engineer conducts research, plans, designs, develops, and evaluates computers, related hardware, and computer networks. In practical terms, on a typical day, they might analyze user needs, design system architectures, integrate hardware and software solutions, or supervise technical teams. They may work in computer systems design, the information technology industry, finance, or engineering.
Want an overview of the roles currently in demand? Check out our page on the main careers in the IT sector in Quebec.
Computer Engineer vs. Software Engineer: What's the Difference?
This is the question that comes up most often, and the answer is important—especially in Quebec.
Many employers hire experienced IT analysts to perform tasks that are more typically the domain of computer engineers. However, these professionals cannot use the title “engineer.” Conversely, a computer engineer can certainly take on the role of a programmer-analyst if their skills and interests lead them in that direction.
In summary: both can perform similar tasks, but only an engineer who is a member of the OIQ can legally use the title “Ing.” To learn more about this topic, read our job profile dedicated to software engineers. The distinctions between these roles are detailed there. For a recruiter, this difference has a direct impact on the reserved acts and the responsibilities that can be entrusted to the person hired.
What path should you take to become a computer engineer?
The path is well-defined, but it requires dedication. Here are the steps, from CÉGEP to your official degree.
CÉGEP Prerequisites
To be eligible for a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, university programs in Quebec generally require college-level mathematics and physics. A natural sciences track in CÉGEP is the most direct route. Some programs also accept students with a DEC in computer technology, subject to additional coursework.
Universities offering this program
Four institutions are particularly renowned for their computer engineering programs in Quebec:
- Polytechnique Montréal: one of the leading institutions in engineering in Quebec
- École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS): a highly practice-oriented approach
- Université Laval: a strong network in Quebec City and the surrounding region
- McGill University: a program offered in English, recognized internationally
The Bachelor of Computer Engineering degree grants access to the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec. This degree opens the door to the professional admission program.
The professional training period and the OIQ exam
Simply holding the degree is not sufficient to use the title “ing.” The professional entry program must be completed within a minimum of 24 months and may be extended to a maximum of 5 years. During this period, the candidate holds the title of CPI and must meet the requirements of the professional entry program, including experience, required evaluations, and language proficiency requirements.
The Role of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ)
The OIQ is at the heart of the system. Understanding this means understanding why the title of engineer holds such value in Quebec.
Why the “Ing.” title is protected by law
To practice engineering in Quebec and use the reserved title of engineer (Ing.), you must hold a valid OIQ license and be registered on the Order’s Roll. This legal framework is established by the Quebec Professional Code. The goal? To protect the public by ensuring that only qualified and evaluated individuals can sign off on engineering work or use this title.
What this means for companies hiring
For an HR manager or CFO responsible for hiring, this distinction is far from trivial. Certain technical work or documents must be signed by an engineer who is a member of the OIQ, depending on the nature of the work and the applicable legal framework. Depending on the nature of the assignments, the absence of an OIQ member can complicate the assignment of certain regulated acts or deliverables. This is information to keep in mind when drafting your job postings.
Looking to recruit the right IT profile? Our team specializing in IT recruitment can help you target exactly what you need.
How much does a computer engineer earn in Quebec?
Here is an overview of salary ranges by experience level, based on data available in Quebec:
| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary |
| Junior (0–4 years) | 65 000 $ – 80 000 $ |
| Intermediate (5–10 years) | 85 000 $ – 105 000 $ |
| Senior (10+ years) | 105 000 $ – 130 000 $+ |
According to Genium360’s Quebec Engineering Professional Compensation Survey, the average annual salary for computer engineers is $103,344, and $74,152 at the start of their careers. Genium360’s 2025–2026 survey, based on responses from 8,930 professionals, reveals that the average base salary in the engineering sector now stands at $130,941.
According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, computer engineers in Quebec typically earn between $32 and $74 per hour.
For a comprehensive overview of IT salaries in Quebec (not just in computer engineering), consult our IT salary guide. It’s a useful tool for gauging your market value, whether you’re a job seeker or an employer.
Employee Benefits and Working Conditions
In addition to their base salary, computer engineers generally enjoy competitive benefits at major employers such as CGI, Hydro-Québec, and Ericsson: group insurance, a group RRSP, and extensive access to remote work. According to the same Genium360 survey, 87% of engineering professionals will have access to remote work by 2025.
What if you’re coming from abroad?
Quebec needs engineers, and the OIQ is actively working to simplify the process for internationally trained professionals.
How to have a foreign engineering degree recognized
Anyone wishing to practice engineering in Quebec with a degree obtained abroad must submit an application to the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec. These procedures apply solely to obtaining a license to practice engineering and are completely separate from immigration procedures.
The OIQ evaluates the application based on education, experience, and applicable language requirements. Processing times may vary depending on the application and the time of year. They then inform candidates whether they have partial or full equivalence.
Specific steps based on your country of origin
The process varies depending on where you are from:
Graduates from France: Under the Agreement on the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications (ARM), graduates of an engineering program recognized in France may obtain a temporary restricted permit (PRT) to practice in Quebec. More than 560 degrees from French schools are recognized by the Order. Once the degree is accepted, candidates must demonstrate their skills over a period of at least 24 months.
Graduates from other countries: The Washington Accord facilitates recognition for graduates from signatory countries and also facilitates rapid integration. For other countries, the evaluation is conducted on a case-by-case basis. The OIQ also offers an online Pre-Admission Guide to help you assess your application before submitting a formal request.
Please note: Sufficient proficiency in French is required in all cases to obtain a license to practice in Quebec.
Ready to find your next IT position?
Whether you’re a computer engineer looking for opportunities or a company seeking that rare talent, Fed Group is here to help. Our team specializes in IT recruitment and understands the realities of the Quebec market and the candidates who make a difference.
👉 Browse our IT job listings now or contact our Fed IT team to discuss your recruitment needs.
Sources
- Government of Quebec - Computer Engineers : quebec.ca
- OIQ - Becoming an Engineer in Quebec : oiq.qc.ca
- OIQ - Graduates Outside Canada : oiq.qc.ca
- Job Bank Canada - Computer Engineer Salaries in Quebec : guichetemplois.gc.ca
