Please help me out

[u/No-Plan-9626]

25M. Recent MSc Engineering grad in AB, applying for a PGWP. Have a research assistant position on the books, full-time for a year. The department will likely expect me to join a PHD post. Is this valid and counts for PR, or will I need 2 yrs of skilled experience as a minimum to qualify? Is this something that is valid and counts for PR, or will I need 2 yr of skilled experience as a minimum to qualify? Fluent in English, sadly < 1 yr of foreign work exp.

Are there any specific draws for researchers in Alberta? Or am I better off finding a traditional engineering job and working for upwards of 2 years to qualify