Working in the NWT
WORKING FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
The Department of Transportation (DoT) of the Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) is an ideal environment to excel and develop as an engineering professional. We provide opportunities to take on challenges beyond what you might enjoy in any other setting. When you work as part of an engineering team at DoT, you'll be part of a competent, dedicated, and collegial workforce that enjoys a unique lifestyle that's unmatched anywhere in Canada.
You’ll feel the difference, the inspiration, and the energy your very first day.
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION
There are a number of departmental and GNWT recognition awards which identify and acknowledge employee contributions to the people of the Northwest Territories and the GNWT. The most prestigious of these is the annual Premier's Award of Excellence, which honours employees who show excellence, innovation and dedication in their work.
However, the most important recognition of the contributions of our employees comes from the opportunity to work in progressively responsible roles, supported by a strong professional development program.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The GNWT supports professional development by providing a number of paths by which our engineering professionals can advance their skills and and continue their education. Engineering staff are provided a variety of learning opportunities and access to continued education throughout their career. Those who wish to advance in their career have access to departmental initiatives such as the Career Development Program, which assists the employee to develop a career development plan, and then provides ongoing resources to obtain the training, work experience, and mentoring required to implement that plan.
A COMPETITIVE TAX ENVIRONMENT
Northwest Territories residents enjoy a very competitive tax rate. There is no territorial sales tax. In addition, NWT residents enjoy unique income tax incentives that include the following:
- Northern Residence Deductions -$5,475 (max.)
- Northwest Territories non-refundable tax credits including Basic Claim Amounts of $11,864
- Cost of living tax credit -$942 (max.), which offsets all or the majority of the NWT Payroll Tax
The GNWT pays a northern allowance to its employees to offset community differences in cost of living and travel. Yellowknife-based staff receive a $3,450 northern allowance. The allowance may be non-taxable if it is used in its entirety for travel outside of Yellowknife.
The GNWT provides its employees and their eligible dependants with Medical Travel Assistance (MTA) to the nearest centre where appropriate and necessary insured non-elective medical treatment is available. Allowances for Medical Travel are non-taxable.
SPOUSAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Opportunities for spouses to gain employment in the Northwest Territories are outstanding. The GNWT permits both spouses to work for the government. A Human Resources Officer would be pleased to discuss opportunities for the spouses of engineering professionals within the GNWT. Spouses with health care and engineering experience are in particular demand.
ADVANTAGES FOR FAMILIES
Children who are raised in the Northwest Territories are eligible for a number of educational and career advantages. The primary and secondary school system is based on the Alberta curriculum, and French immersion programs, as well as a francophone school system, are available to students in Yellowknife and Hay River. The Student Financial Assistance Program provides generous educational allowances, including payment for tuition, books, and travel, as well as the opportunity to reduce the amount payable for student loans if the student returns to the North for employment after graduation. And young people who have spent more than half their life in the Northwest Territories are eligible for priority status under the territory's Affirmative Action Policy.
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