Top High-Paying Unskilled Jobs in Canada for Immigrants

Canada, known for its vast landscapes, diverse culture, and high quality of life, also offers numerous job opportunities for foreigners, including those with minimal experience or formal qualifications. 

While skilled workers often get attention in discussions about high-paying roles, many unskilled positions in Canada can offer a lucrative salary, especially if you’re willing to put in hard work and dedication. 

In this article, we’ll explore 10 high-paying unskilled jobs that you can apply for in Canada today, earning an annual income of $60,000 or more.

1. Cleaner or Housekeeper

One of the most consistent and in-demand jobs in Canada is cleaning and housekeeping. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial properties, cleaners are needed to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. The responsibility of cleaners includes tasks like dusting, sweeping, mopping, and sanitizing areas.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Cleaners are always in demand due to the constant need for hygienic environments in both public and private spaces. 

The average annual salary for cleaners or housekeepers in Canada can range from $40,000 to $60,000, but in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, this figure can reach up to $70,000. 

Higher-paying opportunities are often available in the commercial sector or within large facilities like hotels, offices, and hospitals.

Key Skills Required:

• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Physical stamina

Job Outlook:

As Canada’s population grows, so does the demand for clean and well-maintained properties. The increasing focus on health and safety also amplifies the need for thorough cleaning in workplaces and healthcare settings.

2. Farm Worker

Farm workers are essential to Canada’s agricultural industry, which plays a crucial role in providing food both domestically and internationally. 

Farm workers assist with tasks related to planting, cultivating, harvesting, and animal care. Whether it’s in crop fields or managing livestock, farm workers are pivotal to Canada’s thriving agricultural sector.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Farm work may be considered unskilled, but it offers a good wage, especially for those willing to work long hours and under challenging conditions. 

Depending on experience and location, farm workers can earn an average of $45,000 to $60,000 annually. In certain provinces, seasonal workers may earn even more, especially during harvest time when the demand for labor peaks.

Key Skills Required:

• Basic knowledge of farm equipment
• Ability to work outdoors and in different weather conditions
• Physical strength and stamina

Job Outlook:

Canada’s agricultural industry continues to thrive, with increased demand for food production, making farm work a steady job choice for foreigners looking for unskilled labor opportunities.

3. Food Service Worker

Food service workers are indispensable in Canada’s bustling hospitality and food service sectors. Whether in fast food restaurants, cafes, or fine dining establishments, food service workers assist with food preparation, customer service, and maintaining cleanliness within the establishment.

Why It’s High-Paying:

While the starting wage in food service may seem low, those with experience or those working in high-volume restaurants can significantly increase their earnings. Food service workers typically earn between $30,000 to $50,000 annually, but this can rise up to $60,000 or more with tips, overtime, and experience.

Key Skills Required:

• Customer service
• Teamwork
• Basic cooking or food preparation skills

Job Outlook:

With Canada’s thriving food culture and the constant influx of tourists, food service workers are always in demand. Whether it’s preparing meals, serving customers, or maintaining a welcoming atmosphere, food service positions provide reliable income for those new to the workforce.

4. Janitor

Janitors are responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of various facilities, including schools, offices, hospitals, and industrial settings. Their duties involve sweeping, mopping, dusting, and ensuring that facilities remain sanitary and safe.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Janitors, particularly those working in hospitals or high-security environments, often earn competitive wages. In Canada, janitors can make between $35,000 to $55,000 annually. 

Those working in larger facilities or with specialized cleaning tasks can earn up to $60,000 per year, especially if they work in municipalities or industrial sectors.

Key Skills Required:

• Knowledge of cleaning equipment
• Attention to detail
• Ability to handle cleaning chemicals

Job Outlook:

Canada’s emphasis on cleanliness and safety in public places, especially in schools, healthcare centers, and offices, guarantees a constant demand for janitors. As long as these facilities are operational, janitors will remain a vital part of Canada’s workforce.

5. Truck Driver

Truck driving is one of Canada’s most in-demand unskilled jobs. The country’s vast size, coupled with the growth in e-commerce, makes transportation an essential service. 

Truck drivers are responsible for transporting goods across the country, from food and industrial materials to consumer goods.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Due to the increasing demand for goods and services, truck drivers are one of the highest-paid unskilled workers in Canada. 

The average salary for truck drivers ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 annually, with experienced drivers earning as much as $80,000 or more. 

Long-haul drivers, in particular, may earn more due to overtime and travel allowances.

Key Skills Required:

• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Knowledge of truck safety and maintenance
• Ability to drive long distances

Job Outlook:

With the growing importance of e-commerce and Canada’s expanding infrastructure, the demand for truck drivers is expected to remain strong, offering excellent opportunities for immigrants.

6. Construction Worker

Canada’s construction industry is booming, thanks to an expanding housing market and infrastructure development projects. Construction workers are involved in various tasks, including excavation, framing, roofing, and finishing.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Construction workers can earn between $45,000 to $60,000 annually, with experienced workers and those with specialized skills (e.g., electricians, carpenters) earning more. 

Positions in the residential, commercial, and industrial construction sectors offer lucrative pay, particularly in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Key Skills Required:

• Ability to work with construction tools
• Physical endurance
• Basic construction knowledge

Job Outlook:

Urbanization and major infrastructure projects across Canada make construction one of the most promising sectors for employment, with opportunities for unskilled workers to earn a stable income.

7. Security Guard

Security guards play a critical role in ensuring public safety. They monitor premises, enforce rules, and respond to emergencies, often working in settings like malls, government buildings, or private properties.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Security guards in Canada can earn between $35,000 to $55,000 annually, with those working in high-demand sectors like airports, banks, or government buildings often earning upwards of $60,000.

Key Skills Required:

• Alertness and quick response to incidents
• Communication skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations

Job Outlook:

Security needs continue to rise as businesses and public places require protection. Immigrants who are interested in securing a job in the public safety sector will find many opportunities in the coming years.

8. Warehouse Worker

Warehouse workers are responsible for managing inventory, operating machinery like forklifts, and ensuring goods are stored and shipped efficiently. With the rise of e-commerce, warehouse jobs have become increasingly popular in Canada.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Warehouse workers typically earn $40,000 to $55,000 annually, with those who operate heavy machinery or work in larger facilities earning more. Overtime and weekend shifts can increase wages substantially, bringing them closer to $60,000 or more per year.

Key Skills Required:

• Forklift operation
• Inventory management
• Physical stamina

Job Outlook:

With the expansion of online shopping and the growing need for efficient supply chains, warehouse workers will continue to be in demand in Canada.

9. Landscaper

Landscapers maintain and beautify outdoor spaces by performing tasks like lawn mowing, tree pruning, and flower planting. The landscaping industry is booming, driven by property owners’ desire to enhance the curb appeal of their homes.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Landscapers in Canada can earn anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, with those running their own landscaping businesses or working in high-demand areas often making more.

Key Skills Required:

• Knowledge of gardening tools and landscaping techniques
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Physical fitness

Job Outlook:

The demand for landscapers is expected to remain strong as property owners continue to invest in the appearance of their homes and businesses, making it a promising field for immigrants.

10. Retail Sales Associate

Retail sales associates play a key role in customer service by assisting shoppers, processing transactions, and maintaining inventory. While the job may seem entry-level, it offers excellent opportunities for growth.

Why It’s High-Paying:

Sales associates in Canada can earn $30,000 to $50,000 annually, but with commissions and bonuses, top performers can earn up to $60,000 or more. The retail sector also offers flexible hours and advancement opportunities, which are appealing for immigrants starting out in Canada.

Key Skills Required:

• Customer service
• Sales techniques
• Basic math and handling cash

Job Outlook:

With Canada’s vibrant retail industry, there’s a constant demand for motivated and personable individuals in retail positions, making it an excellent starting point for many immigrants.

Conclusion

Canada offers numerous high-paying unskilled jobs for immigrants, many of which offer an annual salary of $60,000 or more. Whether you’re interested in working as a truck driver, cleaner, or farm worker, these jobs provide excellent opportunities for foreigners to build a stable career. 

With Canada’s growing economy and increasing demand for labor in various sectors, these positions promise not only high wages but also job security and career growth. 

If you’re looking for a way to make a living in Canada without requiring extensive skills or formal education, these high-paying unskilled jobs are a great place to start.