The Top Jobs in Canada For Skilled Trades Workers
February 27, 2025
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Canada's economy and high standard of living make it an attractive destination for skilled workers worldwide. The country's welcoming immigration policies, designed to attract skilled workers to Canada, further enhance its appeal. This combination of economic strength, quality of life, and accessible immigration pathways creates countless opportunities for professionals seeking career advancement as skilled workers to Canada. As a result, it has earned its reputation as a top global choice for skilled workers looking to build successful and fulfilling careers.
Ready to launch your career in Canada? This guide highlights the top in-demand jobs for skilled workers to Canada across various sectors, offering valuable insights into opportunities, salaries, and how to go through the Canadian job market.
Is There a Demand For Skilled Workers in Canada?
Yes. Canada seeks skilled workers to address labor shortages, drive economic growth, and support its aging population. Here is why skilled workers are in high demand.
Labor Shortages Across Key Sectors
Many industries in Canada face significant labor shortages due to an aging workforce, low birth rates, and the retirement of baby boomers. Skilled workers are needed to fill these gaps and keep the economy running smoothly.
Economic Growth and Innovation
Canada’s economy is diverse and growing, with thriving sectors such as technology, healthcare, construction, and engineering. Skilled workers are essential to drive innovation, productivity, and competitiveness.
Immigration as a Key Driver of Population Growth
Canada’s population growth is heavily reliant on immigration. The Canadian government has set ambitious immigration targets to welcome over 500,000 newcomers annually by 2025. Many of these newcomers are skilled workers who contribute to the labor force.
Global Talent Attraction
Canada actively competes for top global talent through streamlined immigration processes. Initiatives like the Global Talent Stream (GTS) and Express Entryy allow skilled workers to immigrate and contribute their expertise to the Canadian workforce.
Regional Development
Certain provinces and territories in Canada have specific labor needs. Skilled workers are encouraged to settle in these regions to support local economies and infrastructure development.
According to Statistics Canada and the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), skilled workers in fields like healthcare, technology, trades, and engineering are in exceptionally high demand. This makes Canada an ideal destination for professionals seeking stability, growth, and opportunity.
Top 5 In-demand Skilled Workers in Canada
While Canada welcomes skilled workers from a wide range of professions, some roles are more in demand than others. Here are the top five in-demand skilled workers in Canada.
Healthcare Professionals
Canada’s healthcare system is under pressure due to an aging population and increased demand for medical services. Roles such as nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and medical laboratory technicians are in high demand nationwide.
Information Technology (IT) Specialists
The tech sector in Canada is booming, with cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal becoming global tech hubs. Software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts, and IT project managers are highly sought after.
Skilled Trades Workers
Canada faces a shortage of skilled tradespeople, particularly in construction, manufacturing, and maintenance. Electricians, plumbers, welders, and carpenters are among the most in-demand trades.
Engineers
Engineers are essential to Canada’s infrastructure and industrial development. Civil, mechanical, software and electrical engineers are particularly in demand.
Transportation and Logistics Workers
With the rise of e-commerce and global trade, Canada needs skilled workers in transportation and logistics. Truck drivers, warehouse managers, and supply chain coordinators are critical to moving goods.
In-demand Jobs in Each Major Skilled Worker Sector in Canada
Canada’s labor market is constantly evolving, with high demand for skilled workers in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, engineering, skilled trades, and transportation. Here are the top in-demand jobs in each major skilled worker sector, with National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and annual average salaries from Canada’s Job Bank.
Construction
| Healthcare Sector Job Roles | NOC Codes | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Physicians | 31102 | 227,218 |
| Physiotherapists | 31202 | 121,907.90 |
| Registered Nurses (RNs) | 31301 | 116,394.75 |
| Medical Laboratory Technologists | 32120 | 103,910.62 |
| Licensed Practical Nurses | 32101 | 83,553.02 |
Manufacturing Sector
| Information Technology (IT) Specialists | NOC Codes | Annual Average Salaries (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Cybersecurity Analysts | 21220 | 130,731.52 |
| Software Developers and Programmers | 21232 | 127,875.29 |
| IT Project Managers | 21231 | 126,560.93 |
| Database Administrators | 21223 | 117,389.08 |
| Computer Network Technicians | 22220 | 93,263.64 |
Energy and Utilities Sector
| Skilled Trades Workers | NOC Codes | Annual Average Salaries (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Technicians | 72402 | 100,554.32 |
| Electricians | 72200 | 97,001.14 |
| Plumbers | 72300 | 94,645.40 |
| Carpenters | 72310 | 84,310.09 |
| Welders | 72106 | 80,532.94 |
Automotive Sector
| Transportation and Logistics Workers | NOC Codes | Annual Average Salaries (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Marine Engineers | 21399 | 133,049.99 |
| Railway Traffic Controllers and Train Dispatchers | 72604 | 113,727.59 |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors | 72404 | 105,340.22 |
| Logistics Coordinators | 13201 | 78,170.20 |
| Truck Drivers | 73300 | 69,299.82 |
Healthcare Sector
| Engineers | NOC Codes | Annual Average Salaries (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineers | 21233 | 149,272.88 |
| Chemical Engineers | 21320 | 138,599.65 |
| Electrical Engineers | 21310 | 135,558.58 |
| Civil Engineers | 21300 | 131,690.52 |
| Mechanical Engineers | 21301 | 128,679.29 |
Aerospace Sector
| Aerospace Sector | NOC Code | Annual Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Avionics Technician | 22312 | 110,128.64 |
| Aircraft Maintenance Engineer | 72404 | 107,145.84 |
| Aircraft Mechanic | 72404 | 106,935.93 |
| Aerospace Welder | 72106 | 81,741.66 |
How Can I Work in Canada as a Skilled Worker?
If you are a skilled worker interested in working in Canada, here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your goal.
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
Determine if your occupation is in demand in Canada. Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for immigration programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or the Global Talent Stream (GTS). Ensure you have the necessary education, work experience, and language proficiency (English or French).
Step 2: Obtain Credential Recognition
Some professions in Canada require licensing or certification. For example, healthcare professionals and engineers must have their credentials assessed and recognized by Canadian regulatory bodies. Use organizations like World Education Services (WES) to evaluate your foreign qualifications.
Step 3: Apply for Immigration Programs
- Express Entry: The Expres Entry system is the most popular pathway for skilled workers. Create an Express Entry profile to score high on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Many Canadian provinces have PNP streams that target specific occupations. For example, British Columbia’s Tech Stream is designed for IT professionals.
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot: The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) program encourages skilled workers to settle in smaller communities with labor shortages.
- Atlantic Immigration Program: The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) targets skilled workers in Canada’s Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island).
Step 4: Secure a Job Offer
While not always mandatory, a Canadian employer's job offer can significantly boost your chances of immigrating. Use job boards like Indeed Canada, LinkedIn, and Workopolis to search for opportunities. Network with Canadian employers and recruitment agencies to increase your visibility.
Step 5: Prepare for Life in Canada
Research the cost of living, housing, and healthcare in your chosen province or city. Familiarize yourself with Canadian workplace culture and labor laws. Consider joining professional associations to build your network and access resources.
Step 6: Obtain a Work Permit (if applicable)
If you are not a permanent resident, you may need a temporary Canadian work permit to start working in Canada. Programs like the GTS offer expedited processing for skilled workers in high-demand occupations.
FAQs
How Can I Get My Foreign Credentials Recognized in Canada?
You'll likely need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to recognize your foreign educational credentials in Canada. An ECA verifies that your degree, diploma, or certificate is equivalent to a Canadian credential. Designated organizations provide ECAs; you must submit your transcripts and other relevant documents for assessment.
Which Canadian Provinces in Canada Have the Most Job Opportunities For Skilled Workers?
Canadian provinces with large urban centers and diverse economies often have the most job opportunities. Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta are generally strong provinces for skilled workers due to their economic activity and diverse industries. However, other provinces, like Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Atlantic provinces, also have specific skills shortages and offer opportunities depending on your profession.
Do I Need a Job Offer to Move to Canada as a Skilled Worker?
While a job offer can be a significant advantage and can boost your ranking in some immigration programs, it's not always a strict requirement. Many skilled worker programs, like Express Entry, assess candidates based on various factors, including education, work experience, language proficiency, and age, even without a job offer. A job offer can improve your chances, but it's not mandatory for all pathways.
Am I Allowed to Join a Union in Canada?
Yes, workers in Canada have the right to join a union and collectively bargain. This right is protected by law, and employers cannot prevent employees from unionizing. Unions play an important role in advocating for workers' rights, negotiating fair wages and working conditions, and providing representation in workplace disputes.