Jobs in Canada That Do Not Need a Degree

June 21, 2023

Sinethemba Phongolo

Canada is a land of opportunities, not just for those with a university degree. In fact, plenty of high-paying jobs are available for individuals without a degree. Whether you're a skilled tradesperson or passionate about healthcare, Canada offers many career options for those looking to work without a degree.

Many categories of jobs don’t require a degree in Canada. Some of these categories include specialized, high-paying jobs without a degree; government jobs without a degree; jobs without high school diploma requirements; fair, good-paying jobs without a degree, and highly sought-after, top jobs in Canada without a degree.

Many foreign workers have asked themselves, ‘Can I immigrate to Canada without a degree?’People generally ask this question because they think that to work in Canada, they need a higher qualification from a university or college. This is simply not the case. In fact, Canada offers immigration and visa options to applicants of all skill levels, including non-degree prospective immigrants.

We'll explore the top 10 occupations in Canada that do not require a degree, discuss how to get a job in Canada without a degree, and highlight the benefits of working in Canada without a degree.

Work in Canada Without a Degree

Although having a qualification is important, what is arguably more important at the moment is either having Canadian work experience or a valid job offer in Canada. The more in-demand your job is and the higher your work experience and expertise in your chosen field, the more likely it will be to get a visa to Canada.

Here is a video showcasing some jobs in Canada that don’t need a degree.

Top 10 Occupations in Canada That Do Not Require a Degree

Canada is the place for immigrants looking to work without a degree! Look at this list of top jobs in Canada without a degree you can apply for!

Fish Plant Workers (NOC 94142)

Fish plant workers are crucial in Canada's seafood industry. They work in fish processing plants, cleaning, sorting, and packaging fish and seafood products. Although this job may not require a degree, it does require physical stamina and the ability to work in cold and wet environments. Fish plant workers can earn a decent income, especially during peak fishing seasons.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Fish Plant Workers are most in demand in the provinces of Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Fish plant workers in Canada is 30,459 CAD, according to Canada's Job Bank.

Electricians (NOC 72200)

Electricians are in high demand in Canada, and this profession offers excellent job prospects and earning potential. While becoming a certified electrician requires completing an apprenticeship and passing a certification exam, it does not require a university degree.

Electricians work in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial, ensuring that electrical systems are installed and maintained safely and efficiently.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Electricians are most in demand in the provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, and Yukon.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Electricians in Canada is 58,695 CAD, according to Canada's Job Bank.

Industrial Butchers (NOC 94141)

For those who enjoy working with their hands and have a knack for precision, a career as an industrial butcher can be rewarding. Industrial butchers work in meat processing plants, cutting, trim, and preparing meat products for distribution. While this job may not require a degree, it does require physical strength and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Industrial Butchers are most in demand in the provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Industrial Butchers in Canada is 39,000 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

Homecare Support Providers (NOC 44101)

As the population ages, the demand for home care support providers grows. These professionals assist elderly or disabled individuals with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals.

While a degree is not required, specialized training and certification may be necessary. Homecare support providers have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others while enjoying job stability.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Homecare Support Providers are most in demand in the provinces of Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Ontario.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Homecare Support Providers in Canada is 35,100 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

Retail Salesperson (NOC 64100)

Retail salespersons play a vital role in the Canadian economy. They work in various retail settings, assisting customers with their purchases, providing product information, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

While a degree is not required, excellent communication and customer service skills are essential. Retail salespersons can earn a commission on top of their base salary, making it a lucrative career choice.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Retail Salesperson are most in demand in the provinces of Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Yukon.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Retail Salesperson in Canada is 29,640 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

Miner (NOC 84100)

Canada is rich in natural resources, and the mining industry significantly contributes to the country's economy. Miners extract minerals and ores from the earth, operate heavy machinery, and ensure mining operations' safety.

While a degree is not necessary, specialized training and certification are typically required. Miners often work in remote locations, but the compensation can be substantial.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Miners are most in demand in the provinces of Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Miners in Canada is 72,150 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

Welders (NOC 72106)

Welding is a skilled trade that offers excellent employment prospects in Canada. Welders use heat and pressure to join metals and are needed in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive.

While a degree is not required, welders must complete a certification program and obtain relevant licenses. The demand for welders remains high, making it a stable and well-paying career choice.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Welders are most in demand in the provinces of Alberta, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Welders in Canada is 50,700 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

Farm Workers (NOC 85100)

Agriculture is a significant industry in Canada, and farm workers play a crucial role in producing food and other agricultural products. Farm workers perform a variety of tasks, including planting, harvesting, and maintaining crops or caring for livestock.

A degree is not required, but physical stamina and the ability to work in all weather conditions are necessary. Farm workers can find employment on dairy farms, orchards, vineyards, and more.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Farm Workers are most in demand in the provinces of Alberta, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Prince Edward Island.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Farm Workers in Canada is 35,100 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

Find out more about the top three Canada work visa programs you can use to immigrate to Canada as a farm worker.

Here is a video breakdown about how to immigrate to Canada as a Farm Worker using the Agri-Food Pilot.

Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 73300)

Transport truck drivers are in high demand in Canada, with a growing need for professionals who can transport goods across the country. While a degree is not required, a commercial driver's license (CDL) and specialized training are necessary. Transport truck drivers can travel and explore different parts of Canada while earning a competitive income.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Transport Truck Drivers are most in demand in the provinces of Manitoba and Prince Edward Island.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Transport Truck Drivers in Canada is 46,800 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

Take your place as a truck driver in Canada by using these 5 steps about how to become a truck driver in Canada.

Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101)

For those interested in healthcare but without a degree, becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can be a rewarding career choice. LPNs provide basic nursing care, such as administering medication, monitoring patients' vital signs, and assisting with daily activities. While a degree is not required, LPNs must complete a practical nursing program and obtain a license. The demand for LPNs is high, making it a stable and fulfilling profession.

Job Prospects

According to Canada's Job Bank, Licensed Practical Nurses are most in demand in the provinces of Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan.

Salary Expectations

The average annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Canada is 55,965 CAD Canada's Job Bank.

How to Get a Job in Canada Without a Degree

You must craft the perfect Canadian resume to raise your chances of successfully finding a job in Canada without a degree. Due to the lack of higher tertiary qualifications, you need to place more emphasis on your work skills and experience and provide a detailed description of your prior jobs' duties and responsibilities.

Learn how to craft the perfect resume while searching for a job in Canada.

Conducting thorough research using validated and popular Canadian online job portals is also a great way of finding jobs in Canada. Most job portals will include a job requirements section which you can look through to see whether or not the job requires a degree. Some of the more popular online Canadian job portals include:

Learn more about the top job posting sites in Canada.

How to Work in Canada Without a Degree

To immigrate to Canada without a degree, you can use the following immigration visa pathways and work permits.

Temporary Foreign Worker Permit (TFWP)

One option for individuals looking to work in Canada without a degree is to apply for a Temporary Foreign Worker Permit (TFWP). This program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary labor shortages. To be eligible, individuals must have a job offer from a Canadian employer and meet specific requirements set by the government.

Pilot Programs

The Canadian government has implemented pilot programs to attract foreign workers to specific regions or industries. These programs may offer pathways to permanent residency for individuals without a degree. Examples of these programs include the:

IEC Working Holiday

The International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday program allows young individuals from participating countries to work and travel in Canada. While a degree is not required, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria and obtain an IEC work permit. This program provides an opportunity to gain international work experience and explore the beauty of Canada.

Find out more about how to apply for work permits.

Why Work in Canada Without a Degree

Employment Opportunities In Essential Occupations

Working in Canada without a degree allows individuals with different skill sets to find meaningful employment and earn a competitive income. Some essential jobs involving sanitation (plumbers) and electrical maintenance and supply (electricians) don’t require a degree.

They are in great demand in Canada according to Canada's Job Bank. This increases the employment opportunities available to foreign workers skilled in these occupations.

Learn more about some of the top jobs that are in demand in Canada.

Universally High Living Standards

Canada is known for its high standard of living and provides a safe and welcoming environment for workers from all backgrounds, including workers who don’t have any degree qualifications. Compared to other industrialized nations like the United States (US), Canada’s high living standards come at a comparatively low cost of living. Learn more about the comparative cost of living between Canada vs US.

Path to Permanent Residency in Canada

Additionally, working in Canada without a degree can be a stepping stone toward obtaining permanent residency or citizenship. Suppose you are working in Canada without a degree using a Temporary Resident work permit. In that case, you can learn more about how to go from being a temporary resident to a permanent resident in Canada.

Skills Development Opportunities

Many individuals who start their careers in Canada without a degree upgrade their skills or pursue further education, opening up new career growth and advancement opportunities.

Canada offers many job opportunities for individuals who still need a degree. Various occupations do not require a university education, from skilled trades to healthcare. By exploring the top jobs in Canada without a degree and understanding the pathways to employment, individuals can unlock success and build a fulfilling career in Canada.

To assist you in taking your place in Canada as a permanent resident immigrant worker without a degree, we recommend that you enlist the services of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). RCICs are Canadian immigration experts with comprehensive knowledge of the Canadian immigration system. Therefore they are useful sources of knowledge and guides that help you successfully navigate the application process.

FAQs

What is the Best Place to Immigrate to Canada Without a Degree?

While job opportunities are available throughout Canada, some provinces and territories are more demanding for certain occupations. For example, Alberta is known for its oil and gas industry, while Ontario has a strong manufacturing sector. It is essential to research the job market in different provinces and territories to determine the best place to immigrate based on your skills and interests.

What is the Fastest Pathway to Canada Without a Degree?

The fastest pathway to Canada without a degree depends on individual circumstances and goals. The Temporary Foreign Worker Permit (TFWP) and the IEC Working Holiday program offer relatively quick ways to work in Canada temporarily.

However, if your goal is to obtain permanent residency, participating in a pilot program may be the fastest pathway. It is advisable to consult with an immigration professional to determine the best pathway for your specific situation.

Find out more about how fast you can move to Canada.