10 High Demand Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada – Part 1

Canada has seen a robust demand for skilled trades jobs across various sectors, driven by significant economic growth and infrastructure improvements—particularly in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. From electricians to carpenters, these roles are essential in shaping the country’s landscape. Whether you are a young individual considering your career options, someone contemplating a career shift, or a new immigrant seeking promising employment opportunities, this article provides valuable insights into ten high-demand skilled trades jobs in Canada.

In Part 1 of this series, we will explore the first five high-demand skilled trades jobs in Canada, including electricians, carpenters, welders, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. Learn about their salary ranges, job descriptions, number of job openings, and future outlooks in their respective industries.

Electricians

Hourly Salary Range

Electricians in Canada can expect to earn between $25 and $45 per hour or even higher, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job.

Job Description

Electricians are indispensable in numerous sectors, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure projects. They install, maintain, and repair electrical power systems, ensuring that these systems are efficient and safe. As Canada continues to invest in renewable energy sources and upgrades its infrastructure, the role of electricians becomes even more crucial.

Number of Job Openings

Currently, there are approximately 8,500 job openings for electricians across Canada. This number is expected to grow as the country pushes forward with more green energy initiatives and infrastructural enhancements.

Future Outlook in the Energy Sector

The future looks bright for electricians, especially those with skills in renewable energy systems. With the Canadian government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix, demand for skilled electricians in this sector is projected to rise significantly. This makes it a promising career path for both current and aspiring electricians.

Carpenters

Hourly Salary Range

Carpenters in Canada typically earn between $25 and $35 per hour. This range varies based on factors such as geographical location, level of experience, and the specific demands of the project.

Job Description

Carpenters play a pivotal role in Canada’s construction and housing markets. They are skilled in constructing, erecting, installing, and repairing structures and fixtures made from wood and other materials. Carpenters are essential in everything from building frameworks for houses to creating intricate cabinetry and furniture, making them integral to both residential and commercial construction projects.

Number of Job Openings

There are currently about 6,000 job openings for carpenters across the country. This number is expected to increase as the housing market continues to expand and as more infrastructural projects commence.

Future Outlook in the Construction Industry

The outlook for carpenters in the Canadian construction industry remains highly positive. With ongoing investments in residential and commercial construction, driven by population growth and urbanization, the demand for skilled carpenters is anticipated to remain strong. This trend provides a stable and potentially lucrative career path for individuals in this trade.

Welders

Hourly Salary Range

Welders in Canada typically earn between $22 and $40 per hour. The salary varies depending on the level of expertise, the industry they work in, and the region.

Job Description

Welders are highly skilled professionals who specialize in fusing materials together, usually metals or thermoplastics, through various welding methods. Their expertise is crucial in both the construction and manufacturing sectors, where precision and durability are paramount. Welders work on everything from building frameworks and automotive manufacturing to shipbuilding and aerospace applications.

Number of Job Openings

Currently, there are approximately 5,000 job openings for welders across Canada. This demand is driven by ongoing projects in construction and the continuous need for the manufacturing of machinery and other metal products.

Future Outlook and Industry Demand

The demand for skilled welders is expected to remain robust due to the ongoing need for infrastructure development and the resurgence of manufacturing in Canada. With advancements in technology and materials, welders who keep up-to-date with modern welding techniques and safety standards will find themselves in a favorable position in the job market. This makes welding a viable and secure career choice for those interested in a skilled trade that involves craftsmanship and precision.

Plumbers

Hourly Salary Range

Plumbers in Canada can earn between $28 and $45 per hour. This range is influenced by factors such as the plumber’s experience, the complexity of the job, and the region in which they work.

Job Description

Plumbers are essential for the installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems in both residential and commercial buildings. Their expertise ensures that water and waste systems are functional, efficient, and meet all regulatory standards. This role involves tasks such as fixing leaky faucets, installing new piping, and ensuring that heating systems are integrated and functioning properly.

Number of Job Openings

There are approximately 7,000 job openings for plumbers across Canada. This number reflects the constant need for plumbing maintenance and the growth in new construction projects.

Future Outlook in the Residential and Commercial Sectors

The future outlook for plumbers is highly positive, with steady demand expected in both residential and commercial sectors. As cities expand and new buildings are constructed, the need for skilled plumbers continues to grow. Additionally, the trend towards more sustainable water usage and the retrofitting of older systems to meet new standards are likely to increase demand for skilled plumbing professionals. This makes plumbing a secure and rewarding career choice in the skilled trades sector.

HVAC Technicians

Hourly Salary Range

HVAC technicians in Canada typically earn between $24 and $46 per hour. This salary range varies based on factors such as certification, experience, and the region of employment.

Job Description

HVAC technicians are specialists in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. They play a crucial role in designing, installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems that control the climate within buildings. Their work ensures that indoor environments remain healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient.

Number of Job Openings

There are currently about 4,500 job openings for HVAC technicians across Canada. This number is expected to grow as more buildings, both residential and commercial, require advanced climate control solutions.

Future Outlook with Rising Climate Control Needs

The demand for HVAC technicians is projected to increase significantly. With climate change effects becoming more pronounced, the need for efficient and effective climate control systems is on the rise. Additionally, the trend towards greener technologies and the push for energy efficiency in building codes will further drive the demand for skilled HVAC technicians. This makes the field not only crucial for modern infrastructure but also a promising career path with long-term stability and growth potential.

The skilled trades jobs discussed in Part 1, including electricians, carpenters, welders, plumbers, and HVAC technicians, are in high demand across Canada. These roles offer competitive salaries, job security, and the satisfaction of engaging in essential work that contributes to the country’s growth and infrastructure. Whether you are a current tradesperson looking to advance your career or someone considering entering a skilled trade, these jobs present excellent opportunities for a stable and rewarding career.

Continue Reading in Part 2

How to Immigrate to Canada for Skilled Trades Workers

If you are in one of the above-skilled trades and considering immigration to Canada, there are several pathways you can take. Canada actively seeks skilled trade workers to fill labor shortages across the country, and there are specific immigration programs designed to facilitate this.

Express Entry

The Express Entry system is one of the most popular pathways for skilled trades workers to immigrate to Canada. Within Express Entry, the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is tailored for individuals in skilled trades. To be eligible, you must:

• Have a job offer in Canada for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
• Meet the required language levels in English or French.
• Have at least two years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time work experience) in a skilled trade within the five years before you apply.
• Meet the job requirements for that skilled trade as set out in the National Occupational Classification, except for needing a certificate of qualification.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many Canadian provinces and territories have Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that are tailored for skilled trades workers. These programs allow provinces to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and who are interested in settling in a particular province. Some PNPs have specific streams for skilled trades workers. For example:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Ontario has a Skilled Trades Stream for skilled workers in eligible trades who want to live and work permanently in Ontario.
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): British Columbia has a Skills Immigration – Entry Level and Semi-Skilled category for workers in skilled trades.
• Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): Alberta offers various streams for skilled trades workers through its Alberta Opportunity Stream.

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is designed to help employers in Atlantic Canada hire qualified candidates for jobs that they haven’t been able to fill locally. This program is available in four provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Skilled trades workers who receive a job offer from an employer in one of these provinces may be eligible to immigrate through this program.

Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is a community-driven program that aims to spread the benefits of economic immigration to smaller communities by creating a path to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers who want to work and live in one of the participating communities. Skilled trades workers with a job offer in one of these communities may qualify for this program.

At Altec Global, we are dedicated to helping individuals achieve their Canadian immigration dreams, no matter how challenging the circumstances may seem. If you need immigration assistance, we encourage you to contact our team for a personalized assessment.