US to Canada Skilled Immigrant Express Entry

So I've been looking into the work permit for entry into Canada, but I understand that I need to take the language exam before I can create my profile and look at the job postings.

I also understand that as a US citizen I am able to visit Canada for up to 6 months.

If I visit Canada and am able to secure a job offer, am I able to obtain a work permit without taking the language exam? Or can I take the language exam after I've set myself up in Canada?

Money is a problem at the moment and the language exam is nearly $300 from what I saw.