Went through this last year with my JAA ATPL but I already had the Canadian CPL. I did my conversion in Vancouver and the guys at the transport office downtown were great. Email for ya:
[email protected]
They'll answer all your questions. Nothings set in stone. They seem to do things on a case specific basis. Good luck.
As for the employment situation, there are jobs around with lots of qualified applicants. Same old story. Wish you all the best.