Canada’s ten most in-demand jobs for semi- and low-skilled workers
According to information obtained from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Canada has set a goal of welcoming over 465,000 newcomers by the end of 2023 to fill the current labor gap.
The Canadian immigration system is notoriously difficult to navigate. With over 80 immigration routes to Canada, strict deadlines, and regulations regarding form completion and submission, you do not want to run the risk of having your application rejected.
Following is a list of Canada’s ten most in-demand semi-skilled and low-skilled occupations for prospective immigrants who qualify.
Canada's Job Skill Types/TEER Levels
The Canadian immigration system classifies occupations as skilled, semi-skilled, or unskilled, according to their skill levels. The addition of Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) levels enhances the classification of available occupations in Canada into six categories, ranging from TEER 0 to 5, replacing the previous NOC skill levels (from 0 to D).
High-Skilled Occupations (TEER 0.1 to 2)
High-skilled jobs typically require a bachelor’s degree, an associate’s degree, or an apprenticeship. Typical positions include management (marketing managers), financial analysts, bankers, lawyers, social workers, government administrators, etc.
Semi- and Low-Skilled Occupations (TEER 3 and 4)
This includes occupations that typically require secondary school and/or occupation-specific training, as well as on-the-job training occupations. This includes sales representatives, cashiers, customer service representatives, retail assistants, commercial drivers, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, among others.
Unskilled Jobs (TEER 5)
Includes farm and livestock workers, fishermen, whalers, cleaners, general laborers, etc. Typically, the duties involve physical labor and a repetitive operational process. The majority of jobs in this category have no formal education requirement.
Canada’s ten most in-demand semi-skilled and low-skilled occupations
There are numerous semi-skilled and low-skilled job openings in Canada that require qualified immigrant workers immediately. Canada is a land of opportunity for workers of all skill levels. With a thriving economy, there is a high demand for jobs in a variety of industries.
Due to a lack of qualified candidates, it is difficult for employers to fill jobs that are in high demand. These positions offer competitive pay, job security, and frequently benefits.
The Canadian government regularly publishes a list of in-demand occupations to assist job seekers and employers in identifying available positions. The list includes positions in healthcare, construction, and transportation, among others.
Knowing your NOC (National Occupational Classification) code is essential, as it allows you to determine which category of skilled workers you belong to. To assist you in locating your NOC code, the following guide is provided.
Long-Haul Truck Driver (NOC 73300)
The responsibility of long-haul truck drivers is to transport goods over long distances. They require a special license to operate tractor-trailers or semi-trucks weighing up to 80,000 pounds.
Additionally, long-haul truck drivers receive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. In addition, some trucking companies offer sign-on bonuses and reimbursement for CDL training expenses.
Expected Wage
According to data from IndeedCanada, long-haul truck drivers in Canada earn an annual average of $69,556 CAD.
Front Desk Hotel Manager (NOC 60031)
Front desk managers oversee the daily operations of the front desk of a hotel. They are responsible for ensuring customer satisfaction, supervising the staff, and processing reservations. They ensure that guests have a pleasant stay and that all staff members carry out their responsibilities competently. The position requires a high school diploma and experience in hospitality.
In Canada, hotel front desk managers are eligible for a variety of benefits, such as health insurance, dental insurance, and retirement plans. Some hotels also offer travel discounts and other perks to their managers.
Expected Wage
According to IndeedCanada, the average salary for front desk hotel managers in Canada is $73,687 per year.
The NAICS code for executive housekeepers is 62021.
Executive housekeepers are responsible for supervising a hotel’s housekeeping staff and ensuring the cleanliness and maintenance of the rooms. The position requires a high school diploma and experience in hospitality. They ensure the cleanliness and maintenance of the rooms.
In addition to salary, executive housekeepers may receive health insurance, dental insurance, and paid time off. As part of the compensation package, some employers may provide housing or other benefits.
One of the benefits of being an executive housekeeper in Canada is the potential for career advancement. Many executive housekeepers begin their careers as housekeeping staff and work their way up to management.
Expected Wage
According to IndeedCanada, executive housekeepers in Canada earn a mean annual salary of $69,823 CAD.
General Farmworkers (NOC 84120)
General farmworkers and livestock workers are responsible for a variety of tasks on farms and ranches, including planting, harvesting, and animal care. The position requires a high school diploma and training on the job.
To become a farm laborer, no formal education or training is required. The high demand for general farmworkers is a result of the rising domestic and international demand for food products. Some employers may provide additional housing, transportation, and health insurance benefits.
Anticipated Salaray
According to IndeedCanada, the average annual salary for general farmworkers in Canada is $55,401 CAD.
Butchers and Meat Cutters, Industrial (NOC 63201)
In the meatpacking industry, industrial butchers and meat cutters are responsible for cutting, trimming, and packaging meat products. The position requires a high school diploma and training on the job. They work in slaughterhouses and other food production facilities.
Industrial butchers and meat cutters enjoy numerous benefits in addition to a competitive salary. Included among these are health and dental insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation and sick leave. Some employers may also provide bonuses or profit-sharing plans, which can supplement your overall compensation.
This high demand for meat products has created a need for skilled workers who can safely and efficiently process and prepare meat. Industrial butchers and meat cutters are also in high demand because they are difficult to replace.
Expected Wage
Industrial butchers and meat cutters in Canada earn an average of $60,573 per year, according to data from IndeedCanada.
Servers of Food and Beverage (NOC 65200)
In restaurants, food and beverage servers take orders, serve food and beverages, and process payments. The position requires a high school diploma and training on the job.
Food and beverage servers work in restaurants, bars, and other establishments that provide hospitality services. They accept orders, serve food and beverages, and ensure guests have a pleasant dining experience.
Depending on the nature of your work, their experience, and their organization. This position includes benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation time.
Expected Wage
According to IndeedCanada, the average annual salary for food and beverage servers in Canada, including tips, is $49.370 CAD.
Welders (NOC 72106)
Welders are responsible for joining metal components using welding equipment. They work in construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, among other industries.
In light of Canada’s aging labor force, demand for skilled welders will only increase in the coming years. Welders are required in numerous industries, including construction, manufacturing, and repair.
Welders are in high demand in the oil and gas industry, where they are needed to construct pipelines and other infrastructure. Additionally, welders enjoy health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Expected Wage
According to IndeedCanada, the average salary for welders in Canada is $79,664 per year.
Livestock Workers (NOC 85100)
Workers who care for and manage livestock are responsible for feeding, watering, and monitoring the animals’ health. They are employed on farms and in other agricultural environments.
Due to the aging workforce in this industry, there is a significant need for new Livestock Workers. In addition, they receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.
Expected Wage
According to IndeedCanada, the average annual salary for livestock workers in Canada is $55,177 CAD.
Pipefitter (NOC 72301)
Pipefitters install and repair pipes for heating, cooling, and other applications. They are employed in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas.
The increasing demand for pipefitters in Canada is a result of the country’s expanding infrastructure requirements. Particularly thriving in Canada is the construction industry, and pipefitters play a crucial role in building and maintaining infrastructure.
In addition to a competitive wage, pipefitters enjoy a variety of benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation time.
Expected Wage
According to IndeedCanada, the average annual salary for pipefitters in Canada is 113,419 CAD.
Industrial Electrician (NOC 72201)
Industrial electricians are responsible for the installation and maintenance of industrial electrical systems. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and mining.
Industrial electricians in Canada earn an average hourly wage of approximately 49.30 Canadian dollars. The salary can vary based on location, experience, and the industry in which one works. In addition, industrial electricians receive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Expected Wage
According to IndeedCanada, the average annual salary for pipefitters in Canada is 114,181 CAD.
Following is a simplified table of the most in-demand semi-skilled and low-skilled occupations in Canada.
Semi- and Low-Skilled Occupations Currently in Demand
NOC Code Annual Salary Average (CAD)
Long-Haul Truck Driver 73300 69,556 Front Desk Hotel Manager 60031 73,687
Executive housekeepers 62021 69,823 Industrial butchers and meat cutters 63201 60,573 Food and beverage servers 65200 49,370 Farmworkers in general 84120 55,401 Livestock workers 85100 55,177 Welders 72106 79,664
Industrial Electrician 72201 114,181 Pipefitter 72301 113,419
Semiskilled/Low-Skilled Worker Immigration to Canada
The best way for a semi-skilled worker to immigrate to Canada is through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Eleven of Canada’s thirteen provinces and territories have their own PNP, each with its own set of in-demand occupations and criteria, addressing a specific labor market need.
If your occupation appears on a province or territory’s list of occupations in demand, you will have a greater chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in Canada.
Immigration Pilots Immigration pilots were created to attract and retain eligible foreign nationals in certain industries and occupations that require their labor and want to permanently settle in the communities where the in-demand occupations are located.
This helps achieve the primary objective of immigration pilots, which is to address labor force needs and skill gaps in particular Canadian provinces or regions.
Semi-skilled and low-skilled workers are eligible to apply to the following major immigration pilot programs:
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Atlantic Immigration Pilot Agri-Food Immigration Pilot Care Provider Pilots
After reading the eligibility requirements for the programs, you can use our Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) calculator to determine if you are eligible to apply.
Why Being a Semi-skilled or Low-Skilled Worker in Canada Does Not Present Few Employment Opportunities
In Canada, semi- and low-skilled jobs are among the most in-demand positions. The combination of low birth rates, an aging population, and disinterest from the majority of tertiary-educated young Canadians has resulted in a surplus of semi- and low-skilled job openings for foreign workers to fill.
Competitive Salaries/Wages
The compensation for low-skilled and semi-skilled workers in Canada is the highest in the world. According to IndeedCanada, the average annual wage for unskilled and semi-skilled workers is $59,906 CAD.
Employment Benefits
Numerous employers provide benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Some employers may also offer bonuses for safe driving or performance goals met.
The first step towards moving to Canada is to get an assessment of your specific situation. Call us today at +1 604 358-5763 for an assessment to see if you are eligible to move to Canada, or fill out our online assessment form.
