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NOC 21109: Other professional occupations in physical sciences
NOC 21109 is a TEER 1 occupation. It counts as skilled work for Express Entry under FSW and CEC. It is not on any 2026 category list, so candidates compete in general and program rounds.
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Professionals in other physical sciences occupations conduct theoretical and applied research in fields of physical science. Metallurgists, soil scientists and physical scientists and researchers are included in this unit group. They are employed by governments, educational institutions and a wide range of industrial establishments.
Job titles filed under this code
Official example titles
- astronaut
- ballistics examiner
- materials scientist
- metallurgist
- physical metallurgist
- research scientist - ceramics
- research scientist - composite materials
- soil scientist
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Metallurgists
- Conduct studies into the properties and production of metals and alloys.
Soil scientists
- Conduct research into the composition, distribution and evolution of soils.
Materials scientists
- Conduct research into the properties, composition and production of materials such as ceramics and composite materials.
Astronauts
- Command, pilot or serve as crew members of a spacecraft to conduct scientific experiments and research, and participate in space missions as mission specialists to maintain spacecraft, install and repair space station equipment and launch and recapture satellites.
What this code means for Express Entry
TEER 0–3 work counts toward the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
One year of this work in Canada can qualify for the Canadian Experience Class.
Not in a Federal Skilled Trades group.
CRS points from November 3, 2026
NOC 21109 is on IRCC's high-wage occupations list at the 1.5x level. From November 3, 2026, at least 12 months (1,560 hours) of Canadian work in it adds 40 points to your Canadian work experience points in the CRS, and a valid job offer in it is worth 70 points; the higher of the two counts. No LMIA is needed.
IRCC high-wage list (list from 2023 to 2025 wage data, read 2026-10-16) · CRS calculator with the new rules
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Employment requirements
- A bachelor's degree in metallurgy, physics, chemistry, or a related physical science discipline is required.
- A master's or doctoral degree is usually required for employment as a research scientist.
- Advanced degrees in a broad range of applied science areas, such as engineering or medicine or Licences may be required for some occupations in this unit group.
Good to know
- Mobility between specializations in this group may be possible with experience.
- Mobility is possible with experience, to other fields of physical science or to management or regulatory program management.