High-Demand Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada
Are you a skilled tradesperson from abroad seeking better career opportunities overseas? Consider Canada, the Great White North, where numerous sought-after skilled trades positions are available across diverse sectors. These roles promise stability and pave the way for lucrative careers and professional advancement within Canada. From foundational roles such as electricians and plumbers to specialized fields like welding and HVAC technicians, these professions are vital for Canada’s ongoing development and progress.
Are you curious about the most sought-after skilled trades jobs in Canada in 2024? Explore our curated list of these pivotal roles, essential for driving the country’s industrial and residential sectors.
What are the top ten in-demand skilled trade jobs in Canada?
As Canada’s population ages and infrastructure projects continue to expand, the demand for skilled tradespeople remains robust and is expected to endure for years to come. If you’re contemplating a career in the skilled trades, here’s an overview of ten of the most sought-after jobs in Canada, complete with their National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and average annual salaries as per Canada’s Job Bank.
Industrial Electrician (NOC 72201)
In the industrial sector, industrial electricians are crucial, and responsible for installing, maintaining, and fixing electrical systems in factories, power plants, and mines. Their duties range from wiring control panels to ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Typically, industrial electricians acquire their skills through a college diploma or apprenticeship, followed by certification as a journeyperson.
Average Annual Salary: 102,899.67 CAD
Provinces with Highest Demand: Ontario, Saskatchewan
Welder (NOC 72106)
Welders are skilled craftsmen who use heat to join metal pieces together. Their expertise is indispensable across sectors like construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. Depending on the welding method (arc, MIG, TIG, etc.), welders create sturdy joints for structures such as bridges, pipelines, and heavy machinery. Training for welders is available through college programs, technical schools, or apprenticeships.
Average Annual Salary: 74,832.85 CAD
How to Move and Work in Canada as a Welder
Provinces with Highest Demand: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island
Heavy Equipment Operator (NOC 73400)
Operating heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and graders is the domain of heavy equipment operators in construction, mining, and forestry. They ensure efficient earthwork, site preparation, and material handling. Training for heavy equipment operators usually involves on-the-job learning or apprenticeships, leading to certifications for specific machinery.
Average Annual Salary: 80,165.77 CAD
Move To Canada As A Heavy Equipment Operator
Provinces with Highest Demand: Prince Edward Island
Plumber (NOC 72300)
Plumbers play a critical role in ensuring water and gas flow smoothly in residential and commercial settings. They install, maintain, and repair pipes and fixtures while adhering to safety standards. Plumbers typically complete a college program or apprenticeship to gain theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Average Annual Salary: 88,172.69 CAD
Also Read How To Immigrate To Canada As A Plumber
Provinces with Highest Demand: Prince Edward Island
Carpenters (NOC 72310)
Carpenters are skilled craftsmen who construct and repair structures ranging from homes to furniture. They specialize in cutting, shaping, and assembling wood using a variety of tools. Carpentry training is available through college programs or apprenticeships, culminating in Red Seal Certification for independent practice.
Average Annual Salary: 80,137.69 CAD
Provinces with Highest Demand: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island
HVAC Technician (NOC 72402)
Ensuring year-round comfort in buildings relies on the expertise of HVAC technicians. They specialize in installing, servicing, and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in both residential and commercial settings. HVAC technicians typically undergo training through college programs or apprenticeships to learn system operations, troubleshooting techniques, and how to maintain optimal indoor conditions.
Average Annual Salary: 88,143.09 CAD
Provinces with Highest Demand: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island
Transport Truck Driver (NOC 73300)
As the backbone of the national supply chain, transport truck drivers play a crucial role in delivering goods over long distances by road. They prioritize safe and efficient transport of various commodities, adhering strictly to safety regulations while navigating diverse road conditions. Training programs for truck drivers or obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are essential steps in pursuing this career.
Also Read Immigrate to Canada as a Truck Driver
Average Annual Salary: 66,760.93 CAD
Provinces with Highest Demand: Ontario, Prince Edward Island
Millwright (NOC 72400)
Millwrights are the mechanics of industrial settings, specializing in the installation, maintenance, and repair of machinery used in factories and power plants. Their expertise ensures the smooth operation of complex equipment critical to production processes. Millwrights typically acquire their skills through college programs or apprenticeships, gaining essential knowledge of machinery systems.
Average Annual Salary: 87,056.25 CAD
Provinces with Highest Demand: Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan
Automotive Service Technician (NOC 72410)
Automotive service technicians play a vital role in maintaining vehicles’ performance and reliability. They diagnose, repair, and service cars, light trucks, and other automotive systems, handling tasks such as engine diagnostics and brake repairs. Training for automotive service technicians involves college programs or apprenticeships, often followed by certification specific to vehicle makes or repair specialties.
Average Annual Salary: 74,777.70 CAD
Provinces with Highest Demand: Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Yukon
Cook (NOC 62200)
Although not traditionally classified as a skilled trade, cooking demands a blend of technical proficiency and creative flair. Cooks prepare and cook meals in various establishments like restaurants, hotels, and hospitals, requiring knowledge of food preparation, menu planning, sanitation standards, and customer service. Aspiring cooks can gain training through college programs, culinary schools, or on-the-job training supervised by experienced chefs.
Average Annual Salary: 42,721.54 CAD
Provinces with Highest Demand: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island
How to Discover High-Demand Skilled Trade Jobs in Canada
Canada’s thriving skilled trades sector presents abundant opportunities, but navigating the job search can be daunting. Here’s a comprehensive guide to finding the ideal high-demand skilled trade job in Canada that aligns with your abilities and interests.
Step 1: Assess Your Interests and Skills
Begin with a thorough self-assessment. Utilize tools such as the Government of Canada’s Skills Assessment and Career Planning Tool to pinpoint your strengths and preferences. Dive into specific trades using the NOC system and explore resources like Skills Canada for detailed trade descriptions, salary insights, and training prerequisites.
Step 2: Research Provincial and Territorial Labor Market Demands
Demand for skilled trades varies across provinces. Consult provincial government websites and investigate immigration pathways tailored to skilled trades. For example, Alberta’s Trades website offers comprehensive data on sought-after trades, apprenticeship programs, and licensing requirements.
Step 3: Utilize Job Boards Effectively
Tap into specialized job boards like Canada’s Job Bank and Indeed, which host a plethora of skilled trade job listings. Refine your searches using targeted keywords such as “electrician,” “plumber,” or specific trade titles coupled with location filters. Consider niche job boards like BuildForce Canada for roles in construction-related trades.
Step 4: Explore Apprenticeship Opportunities
Many skilled trades necessitate apprenticeship training, blending practical experience with classroom instruction. Government portals like the Canadian Apprenticeship Service catalog accredited apprenticeship programs offered by participating employers.
Step 5: Network Strategically
Engage with industry associations, trade unions, and training institutions. Attend industry events and job fairs to forge connections with hiring managers and stay abreast of industry trends. Seek out informational interviews with seasoned professionals in your desired trade to gain valuable insights and guidance.
How to Secure Employment in a High-Demand Skilled Trade Job in Canada
Securing a Canadian work permit is vital for pursuing a high-demand skilled trade job in Canada. Begin by identifying your trade and confirming its classification under the NOC system. A job offer from a Canadian employer is typically required, demonstrating a genuine need for your skills within the country.
The employer may need to obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to support your work permit application, validating that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the local job market. Once you have a job offer and, if applicable, an LMIA secured, you can apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Depending on your trade’s NOC classification and the duration of your job offer, you may qualify for a temporary work permit or, in some instances, a pathway to permanent residency through initiatives like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Achieving Permanent Residency as a Skilled Tradesperson in Canada
Canada’s thriving demand for skilled tradespeople is met through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), offering a direct route to permanent residency. This program prioritizes applicants with job offers in trades categorized under the NOC system. Eligibility requires a minimum of two years of recent work experience in your skilled trade, alongside meeting language proficiency standards in English or French.
Compared to other immigration pathways, the FSTP boasts a streamlined and expedited application process. By submitting your Express Entry profile featuring FSTP qualifications, you enhance your prospects of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Obtaining permanent residency through the FSTP grants you the privilege to live, work, and study indefinitely in Canada. Additionally, you can sponsor family members for immigration and, in due course, apply for Canadian citizenship.
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