Working as a polygraph examiner in Canada

Lie detector tests are not only found in TV shows. In modern conditions, when it is impossible to calculate all risks, many companies more and more often resort to the services of polygraph examiners — experts working with a lie detector to get reliable information from their employees or job applicants when hiring.

The great news is that with experience in this field, you can immigrate to Canada with or without a job offer!

According to Job Bank, equal employment opportunities are being offered by all Canadian provinces except Alberta. This indicates a growing demand for these professionals across all sectors.

Salaries of polygraph examiners

The salary of a polygraph examiner in Canada depends on various factors: employment requirements, qualifications, working conditions and employer location. Experienced specialists earn more than beginners.

According to official information, polygraph examiners in Canada earn an average of $17 CAD per hour.

As for the highest hourly rates, the provinces of Alberta, Quebec and Northwest Territories win. And in Nunavut the hourly rate is almost double the average.

Polygraph examiners in Canada — what do they do?

According to the Canadian Occupational Handbook, polygraphers in Canada:

• they take a polygraph test;
• prepare methods and questions for testing;
• provide explanations to the customer on the organization and methodology of the audit.

Polygraph examiners' terms of reference include:

• theft and fraud proceedings;
• screening and evaluation of personnel already in service who are being hired;
• Identification of information on the whereabouts of wanted persons;
• a marital infidelity check;
• identifying perjury;
• Determining the credibility of information received from civilians;
• identifying instances of self-incrimination.

Where and how polygraph examiners work in Canada

Specialists in this field conduct private investigations for clients or employers, respectively they may be self-employed or work for a company.

Polygraph examiners work in public or private security agencies, educational, cultural, financial and medical institutions, retail, business and industry, investigative services, the transportation industry and other organizations in the private and public sectors.

Employment requirements

A high school degree and a diploma in law, security or psychology are required to work as a polygraph examiner. In addition, professionals are trained to work with the lie detector itself. Be prepared that you will have to take additional courses or training once you are employed by some companies.

Polygraph examiners must also possess the following skills:

• strong observation and communication skills;
• ability to make quick decisions in emergency situations and work under stress;
• Ability to adhere to procedures, routines and rules;
• the ability to act in a disciplined, honest and ethical manner.

License

In Canada, the profession is a regulated profession. This means that to work as a polygraph examiner in Canada, you must obtain an additional license or certificate.

Regulatory bodies that issue licenses differ from province to province and specifics of activity. You can read more about which body to apply for a license at website.

How to immigrate to Canada

If you have experience as a polygraph examiner, you can immigrate to Canada under one of the immigration programs suitable for this profession.

Many Canadian immigration programs are suitable for polygraphers, for example:

• Manitoba Skilled Workers Overseas;
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program;
• Alberta Opportunity Stream.

For more Canadian immigration programs for polygraphers see .