Survival Jobs in Canada: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Survival Jobs in Canada

Survival Jobs in Canada: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Leaving your home country and moving to a new one to start a new job and a new life is a big undertaking for anyone. This is part of what makes the life of an immigrant so tough. The life of an immigrant in Canada is no different. Most of the people who move to Canada for new careers hope for some level of career progression. This may even be the primary reason that you move to the country. However, fortune isn’t always on your side and you have to keep your finances in check while you wait for things to take off. This is where Survival jobs in Canada come into play.

To survive in a new country, many immigrants often have to start working within the first few weeks or within the first month of setting foot in Canada. They also join these temporary jobs in Canada to gain some Canadian experience, gather some life savings or support themselves while working towards their primary goals.

In this article, we will introduce the concept of survival jobs, define it, outline the advantages and disadvantages. At the end of it, you should have a holistic understanding of survival jobs in Canada and make more informed decisions going forward. Without further delay, let’s get into it!

What are Survival Jobs in Canada?

As the name suggests, a survival job in Canada helps you survive by covering basic living costs. It allows you to pay the bills while still giving you enough time and room to pursue your primary goals. These types of jobs also have other benefits such as helping you gain experience locally, build up a network and strengthen your language skills. Since these are usually low-skilled jobs you wouldn’t need much professional experience.

Some common examples of survival jobs in Canada are factory or construction workers who take on roles like lab technician, general labour, shipper receivers, machine operators, and so on. It could also be in other industries which would include jobs like being a barista, a server or bartender, sales associate, cleaner, dog walker, and so on. 

These jobs are also minimum wage jobs, generally speaking. This means most employers will pay you the minimum hourly or daily wages that they are legally expected to pay. The minimum wage rate in Canada can vary depending on the province or territory. Each province or territory has labour laws that dictate not only the minimum wage but other factors as well. These include working conditions, minimum working age, overtime rules, trade unions, and so on.

Types of Survival Jobs in Canada

There are generally three ways of classifying survival jobs in Canada. You can either do it as a temporary job, a part-time job or a full-time one. If it’s temporary it means you take it on for a fixed short-term duration like a few weeks or months. These are usually contractual. Part-time and full-time survival jobs are exactly what they sound like, with one notable difference. The time of work aside, with short-term jobs, you get more time to yourself and it’s generally more flexible. On the other hand, employees who undertake long-term survival jobs might be entitled to certain perks and benefits that might not be offered to part-time employees.

Survival Jobs in Canada has certain advantages

Advantages of Taking Up Survival Jobs in Canada

1) Pays the Bills – One of the main reasons that people take up survival jobs in Canada is that it pays the bills. It covers the basic expenses so you can focus on building your life. There are also other uses for it. For example, if you were renting an apartment and you need proof of income, this is a quick solution. As per the law, employers cannot pay you less than the minimum wages allocated by the province where you stay. Some jobs like being a waiter or a bartender might give you a little bit more cash in the form of tips, but that depends on where you work, the customers, and your people skills.

“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure. – Colin Powell, Former United States Secretary of State

2) Pick up Soft-Skills – Survival jobs are a great way of building up your professional foundation in Canada. It gives you a feel for the job market and teaches you valuable soft skills that employers look for. One of these skills is language skills, particularly English. What you need to understand is that many immigrants that come to Canada come from all walks of life, and different parts of the world. This means that not everyone speaks English as their first language. Survival jobs allow you to brush up on these skills. Not only that, but you might just pick up a few Canadian slangs along the way!

3) Networking Is a Great Option – Working a survival job, you will likely meet a lot of people along the way. From co-workers to bosses, customers, clients, vendors, and so on. This will serve you well as it can become the foundation of your professional network. Build relationships with people along the way and you can start working your way up the career ladder.

Minimum Wages is a disadvantage of survival jobs in Canada

Disadvantages of Taking Up Survival Jobs

1) Low Pay – With any survival job in Canada, you will never make enough that it will allow you to live a luxurious lifestyle. These are minimum wage jobs at best. You will have enough money to pay your bills and not much else for the most part. What’s more, you might have to work overtime some days depending on the industry and the business you’re in.

2) Reduced Hours for Job Search – Look, the very nature of these minimum wage jobs is that you have a flexible schedule. That’s why students take them up all the time. However, if you keep in mind that you do have to put in certain hours and the occasional overtime, you will notice that it doesn’t leave as many hours in the day as you might like to apply to new jobs, network, build your resume and so on. There is flexibility and then there are minimized hours. Keep this in mind when applying for survival jobs in Canada.

3) Complacency – It’s a slippery slope when you consider the working nature of these jobs. As we have mentioned countless times by now, you get enough to get by with this line of work. Some might find that enough and get complacent. This is dangerous as it severely affects your future career prospects as you will not be looking for the work that you studied for. Several underlying issues can come with this, like job dissatisfaction, uncertain financial situations, familial issues, and so on. So, always keep in mind, these jobs are called temporary or survival jobs for a reason, even the long-term ones.

Recent Posts

Women in Skilled Trades: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future

Explore how women are transforming skilled trades, overcoming challenges, and fostering diversity. Discover success stories, training resources, and the role of recruitment agencies in supporting women in these fields.
Read More

Remote Work Revolution: Adapting Recruitment Strategies for a Digital World

Discover how to adapt your recruitment strategies for the digital age of remote work. Learn innovative approaches, benefits, and challenges to stay ahead in the evolving job market.
Read More

Breaking Into the Tech Industry: Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada’s Tech Boom

As Canada’s tech industry continues to flourish, there's a rising demand for skilled trades professionals to support this growth. While many think of the tech sector as being dominated by...
Read More

Expanding Your Horizons: How Canadian Employers Are Seeking Global Talent

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Art of Negotiation: Tips for Securing the Best Contract Terms as a Skilled Worker

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Future of Manufacturing Jobs in Canada: Trends and Predictions for 2024

The manufacturing sector in Canada is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, shifts in global trade, and evolving workforce needs.
Read More

Top 10 Part-Time Jobs in Canada for Students

Here are some part-time jobs in Canada that students should consider

Top 10 Part-Time Jobs in Canada for Students

In recent years, Canada has been one of the most popular destinations for international students to travel to and study. It has great infrastructure, a strong economy, highly-regarded educational standards and so much more. While it does have a lot to offer, it may not always be the most affordable to students who have to fund their day-to-day lives out of their pocket. This is why many international students get part-time jobs to offset the cost of their studies.

As a foreign student, you might wonder if you can work while studying in Canada, as in, would it be viable? The answer to that is a resounding ‘yes’. While you do need a government permit or legal approval, it is doable. Certain part-time jobs in Canada might only require you to work weekends or evenings. Some might be even more flexible, allowing you to plan your schedule around them. In this blog, we explore 10 such part-time jobs in Canada for international students looking to support themselves.

1. Teacher’s Assistant

This is by far one of the most convenient part-time jobs to have when studying in Canada. Many schools and teachers hire teaching assistants to help them with various tasks throughout the term. Some of these duties might include tutoring, helping students, formulating lesson plans, administrative work and even grading student papers.

There are some requirements for the candidates who take up this role. Applicants should have completed at least a year of university or college. They should also have exceptional organizational skills and experience in a relevant course with which they will be assisting. What makes this job so convenient is that you don’t even have to leave campus frequently. There is a caveat though, you have to stay on top of your studies while helping others stay on top of theirs.

2. Server/ Bartender

If you’re a little more inclined towards the service industry and prefer to work in shifts or nights, then this might be more to your liking. Serving or bartending is usually done at night, be it weekdays or weekends. While the hourly wages of this job don’t quite keep pace with the other jobs on this list, it does give you more room to breathe in terms of time management. You get more time to focus on your studies with this part-time job, and hey, there are always those customers who tip well. At the end of the day, how much you earn depends on the establishment you work at, your customers and your people skills.

Bartending is one of the best part-time jobs for students

3. Uber or Lyft Driver

If you’re not much one for sitting behind a desk or waiting on customers, and if you much rather prefer a little movement in life, then this is a part-time job you should consider. This is a rather popular part-time job for students in Canada as they get to drive around, it’s more accessible and flexible as well. All you need is a driver’s license, be 21 years of age, a car and a phone. What’s great is you get to set your work timings with this job.

4. Tutor

This is sort of in line with what we mentioned about the teacher’s assistant. Tutoring is a great part-time job for students who excel in certain areas of study. As long as you have the qualifications, knowledge and patience to teach others, you will succeed at this job.

5. Freelancer

Here we have yet another job that allows you to set your timetable. If you are someone who enjoys working from home or remotely, a freelance job like freelance writing, web designing, copywriting or even graphic designing can be good options for students in Canada. What’s more, often you can set your rates, have a diverse range of clients and have complete control over the quality of work that you produce. This is one of the better part-time jobs if you need more time on your hands.

“The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary. – Vidal Sassoon, British hairstylist

Working as a nanny is one of the more relaxing part-time jobs

6. Nanny

Many students often take up au pair work due to its flexible timings and generally easy-going nature of the job. If you enjoy working with children and have experience caring for them, then this is a good role for you. Many parents seek assistance taking care of their children, from picking them up at school to preparing meals, entertaining them or just simply babysitting.  Typically, the hours are flexible and the added advantage here is that you can do your assignments while they sleep. You drive up your chances of landing jobs in this department if you have first-aid and CPR training.

7. Barista

Studying and caffeine go hand-in-hand most of the time. How can you say no to a job where you work with caffeine all day? It is generally very easy-going and enjoyable. Coffee shops love to hire students for their flexible schedules. However, if we are being honest, this is not one of the higher-paying part-time jobs on this list, but it has its upsides. For example, if you work for a big brand like Starbucks, then you get impressive benefits, perks and a decent day’s wage. Fair to say, it is a worthwhile part-time job to have.

8. Salesperson

This job is all about people skills. While nothing can be said for certain when it comes to working as a salesperson, there are benefits. There could be flexible timings and a decent income in it for you, but that all depends on where you work and the kind of role you take on. Some stores might offer you a commission-based salary or a general monthly income. So, choose wisely based on your schedule and studies.

“Studies serve for delight, for ornaments, and for ability. – Francis Bacon, Former Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain

9. Dog Walker

If you’re an animal lover, this is one of the best part-time jobs you can have. Keep in mind that, while this job does sound relaxing, it is a little more time-consuming at times. Some dog walkers may be on-call so there is that to consider. You may also have to walk certain dogs, for a certain amount of time, and it varies. There is also the weather to consider, which may not always be ideal. All things considered though, it isn’t that time consuming compared to most jobs. What’s ideal about this is, you can charge higher prices depending on the services you offer and the number of dogs you walk. This could be turned into a free-lance job if you were so inclined. You could add on service offerings like dog-sitting and even grooming if you had the time and facilities.

10. Translator

If you are someone who speaks more than one language, you might be in luck! In Canada, the demand for translators is quite healthy. However, to be a translator, you need to be able to speak, read, and write the language fluently. You need these skills as you may be asked to work on documents, facilitate communication between two or more parties and so on. You could work with a company, or you could do it as an independent agent too. Either way, there is a good scope for this part-time job in Canada for students.

Recent Posts

Women in Skilled Trades: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future

Explore how women are transforming skilled trades, overcoming challenges, and fostering diversity. Discover success stories, training resources, and the role of recruitment agencies in supporting women in these fields.
Read More

Remote Work Revolution: Adapting Recruitment Strategies for a Digital World

Discover how to adapt your recruitment strategies for the digital age of remote work. Learn innovative approaches, benefits, and challenges to stay ahead in the evolving job market.
Read More

Breaking Into the Tech Industry: Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada’s Tech Boom

As Canada’s tech industry continues to flourish, there's a rising demand for skilled trades professionals to support this growth. While many think of the tech sector as being dominated by...
Read More

Expanding Your Horizons: How Canadian Employers Are Seeking Global Talent

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Art of Negotiation: Tips for Securing the Best Contract Terms as a Skilled Worker

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Future of Manufacturing Jobs in Canada: Trends and Predictions for 2024

The manufacturing sector in Canada is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, shifts in global trade, and evolving workforce needs.
Read More

The Federal Skilled Trades Program: Everything You Need to Know

Federal Skilled Trades Program

The Federal Skilled Trades Program: Everything You Need to Know

If you are a skilled worker looking to immigrate to Canada, then the Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program is just the thing for you. The Federal Skilled Trades program is one of three major federal immigration programs managed by the Express Entry System. Just like all the other Express Entry systems this one too ranks candidates’ eligibility for qualification with the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This helps the program runners decide who is eligible and who can be granted a permanent residency visa.

Why Consider the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

According to the Canadian Immigration Law Firm (CANADIM), every year, over half of all the immigrants who enter Canada, are skilled workers. They came in through economic programs such as the Federal Skilled Trades program. If you are a qualified tradesperson with a good level of experience and knowledge, then this program can be a huge boon. It can fast-track your application to move, get you a permanent residency visa, and let you live and work in Canada faster than most other programs.

Do You Qualify?

To qualify for the FST program, you need to have at least two years of industry work experience under your belt. That or an equivalent of that if you worked part-time. This experience will only be taken into consideration if it was obtained within the last five years of you applying to the FST program. Additionally, it will only be considered work experience if you got it after being granted certification, license or equivalent, to practice the trade in your country.

Federal Skilled Trades Program

“The beginning is the most important part of the work. – Plato, Athenian philosopher

Canada Employment Connection

Aside from work experience, you need to have a valid full-time offer of employment. This offer has to be for a position that is for a minimum of 12 months. Alternatively, you could have a certificate of qualification in your respective skilled trade. This should be issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.

Language Benchmark

With Canada being a predominantly English and French-speaking country, you need a certain level of language proficiency to make it there. Therefore you need to reach a minimum of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 on an approved English or French language test.

Residence

If you are applying for the FST program, you need to make it clear that you intend to live outside of the province of Quebec.

“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end. – Seneca, Roman philosopher

Federal Skilled Trades Program

Meeting Basic Admissibility Requirements

Given that you have met all the previously mentioned standards and passed, you would be eligible to submit an Express Entry profile for the Federal Skilled Trades program. However, it is still no guarantee that your application will be selected or even finalized. For that, you need to meet Canada’s basic admissibility requirement. This means that certain criminal offenses and/or medical conditions may make your application inadmissible to enter Canada this way.

What You Need to Know When Applying to the FST Program

As mentioned before, having the qualifications and the certification is no guarantee that you will get a permanent residency visa, and neither is having a submitted Express Entry application. Only after submitting it will you be assigned a CSR score, and only then will you be considered in future Express Entry draws for Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.

When you are applying, you need to provide lots of documentation and details. For one, you need to provide results from your language test, taken within the last two years. Then there is all the proof of identification documents. Ideally, you and all your accompanying dependents need to have a valid passport to travel.

Another thing you need to watch out for is educational documents. While this isn’t necessary for the Federal Skilled Trades program, it does help bring up your CRS score.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, there are no guarantees when it comes to the Express Entry system or the Federal Trades. But for those who do qualify, this is a great way to go about getting your career started in Canada as a skilled trades worker.

Recent Posts

Women in Skilled Trades: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future

Explore how women are transforming skilled trades, overcoming challenges, and fostering diversity. Discover success stories, training resources, and the role of recruitment agencies in supporting women in these fields.
Read More

Remote Work Revolution: Adapting Recruitment Strategies for a Digital World

Discover how to adapt your recruitment strategies for the digital age of remote work. Learn innovative approaches, benefits, and challenges to stay ahead in the evolving job market.
Read More

Breaking Into the Tech Industry: Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada’s Tech Boom

As Canada’s tech industry continues to flourish, there's a rising demand for skilled trades professionals to support this growth. While many think of the tech sector as being dominated by...
Read More

Expanding Your Horizons: How Canadian Employers Are Seeking Global Talent

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Art of Negotiation: Tips for Securing the Best Contract Terms as a Skilled Worker

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Future of Manufacturing Jobs in Canada: Trends and Predictions for 2024

The manufacturing sector in Canada is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, shifts in global trade, and evolving workforce needs.
Read More

How to Become a Millwright in Canada: An Industry Overview

Becoming a Millwright in Canada

How to Become a Millwright in Canada: An Industry Overview

Before we dive into the matter of how to become a Millwright in Canada, we first have to understand what a millwright does. We need to get a holistic understanding of the pay grade that they face in the industry, the work conditions, and so on. To begin, a millwright’s primary responsibilities include assembling, installing, dismantling, and just working with heavy machinery of all types. 

Typically, they work with very advanced machines in commercial manufacturing industries such as power generation, mining, construction, food processing plants, and even the automobile industry.

The Different Types of Millwrights and Millwright Licenses

There are essentially two broad classifications of millwright licenses, according to Michael Samson, an accounts manager, and recruiter at Pure Staffing Solutions. In an interview, he revealed that these categories are Industrial Millwrights which carry the license 433A and the other one is 426A, which is a Construction Millwright.

“Industrial Millwright 433A can work in any industry across Canada. The construction millwright is more specifically a certified program, designed for construction sites and other such work environments like power plants, the marine industry, and so on,” said Samson.

He went on to elaborate how there are also higher levels of classifications that specify where in Canada you can work. “There are two types of millwright categories, one is a Red Seal Millwright and then there are Journeyman Millwrights. The Red Seal Millwright is an interprovincial Millwright License. If someone has a Red Seal License can work anywhere in Canada. The Journeyman Millwright License holders can only work in certain provinces. E.g. if someone got a Journeyman License in Ontario, they can work only in Ontario.”

Samson went on to explain, “However, if the Journeyman Millwright knows the National Industry Standards, and they take an exam, they could qualify to work in other provinces as well. They will be given a Journeyman Red Seal License.”

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the U.S.A

The Average Salary You Can Expect

The average pay for an industrial Millwright in Canada is $65,496 per year which comes to about $31 per hour. However, when we look at the Salary range, it can start anywhere from $47,000 per year to $80,000 a year. New apprentices who are just starting, get paid at the lower end of the pay scale. Once they get their licenses, it goes towards the higher end.

New millwrights also get an average bonus of $1,146. Keep in mind that it varies from company to company, some offer a signing bonus and some offer profit sharing.

Becoming a Millwright in Canada

As an example, Pure Staffing Solutions has one client who offers a $1,500 signing bonus and once they complete one year they get another $1,500. The commercial Automobile industry is a prime place for high salaries as they pay an average minimum of $40 per hour, one of the highest pay rates that a millwright can get in the country.

Becoming a Millwright Canada

There are a few different ways to go about it, if you are wondering how to become a millwright in Canada. While formal education isn’t the hard and fast rule, it does give you a significant advantage. The same is true of apprenticeships. While it is not necessary, it does equip you with a certain set of skills that allow you to gain a stronger career footing in the industry.

“Do what you love and success will follow. Passion is the fuel behind a successful career. – Meg Witman, American Business Executive

Becoming a Millwright in Canada

Education

If you are taking the educational route, you need a minimum qualification of a high school degree or equivalent to get a job as a millwright. Having this means that you would be eligible to study higher, get the prerequisite training and write the exam in your quest to becoming a millwright in Canada.

Apprenticeships

This method goes hand-in-hand with education. If you want to work as a licensed millwright, then you need to do an apprenticeship. Samson explains it as follows, ” Once they have they (millwright aspirants) will be eligible to complete Millwright training. Typically, a Millwright completes 3 to 5 years of apprenticeship (in-field work and classroom studies). Also, each year of instruction includes 144 hours of technical instruction and up to 200 hours of paid, on-the-job training throughout the apprenticeship.”

“We’re here to put a dent in the universe. Otherwise why even be here? – Steve Jobs, Co-founder of Apple

Working Without a License

If you are not inclined towards the apprenticeship or educational path, you can always work as an unlicensed millwright. You should note that it is optional to have the license, but carrying one does have its perks.

“Even if you haven’t completed an apprenticeship program, but have hands-on experience and have worked with a company as an unlicensed Millwright you can challenge the exam directly and get the license,” said Samson.

Samson added, “Someone can work without a license, but if you have a license, your value in the market goes up. For example, some of our clients offer a bonus of an additional $1 or $2 on top of the industry standard for Millwrights with a Red Seal License. If you don’t have the license, you will only be paid the industry standard.”

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the choice is on you. When the question of how to becoming a millwright in Canada arises, the path is straight forward. It has a lot of benefits and even more so if you are fully qualified. Given the country’s booming industry and high levels of demand for skilled workers in this field, employment is not scarce. However, the competition is high.

Therefore, even if the path to becoming a millwright in Canada is quite straightforward, you need to be able to beat out the competition. That is where we come in. At Pure Staffing Solutions, we help you identify and get placed in the best companies. So, if you truly want to give it a shot, get in touch with us and get your career started!

Recent Posts

Women in Skilled Trades: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future

Explore how women are transforming skilled trades, overcoming challenges, and fostering diversity. Discover success stories, training resources, and the role of recruitment agencies in supporting women in these fields.
Read More

Remote Work Revolution: Adapting Recruitment Strategies for a Digital World

Discover how to adapt your recruitment strategies for the digital age of remote work. Learn innovative approaches, benefits, and challenges to stay ahead in the evolving job market.
Read More

Breaking Into the Tech Industry: Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada’s Tech Boom

As Canada’s tech industry continues to flourish, there's a rising demand for skilled trades professionals to support this growth. While many think of the tech sector as being dominated by...
Read More

Expanding Your Horizons: How Canadian Employers Are Seeking Global Talent

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Art of Negotiation: Tips for Securing the Best Contract Terms as a Skilled Worker

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Future of Manufacturing Jobs in Canada: Trends and Predictions for 2024

The manufacturing sector in Canada is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, shifts in global trade, and evolving workforce needs.
Read More

Heavy Machinery Maintenance Tips: A Millwright’s Guide

Millwrights Play a Huge Role in Heavy Machinery Maintenance

Heavy Machinery Maintenance Tips: A Millwright’s Guide to Success

When it comes to the commercial industries, be it manufacturing units, mining projects, or what have you, none of them wants to experience downtime. They say time is money, and unplanned downtime comes at a huge financial cost to these companies. This can lead to a ripple effect of several bad outcomes such as loss of faith by clients, loss of money, or even loss of your competitive edge. Therefore it is always important to have a heavy machinery maintenance program in place!

When it comes to heavy machinery maintenance, it can be an expensive affair, to say the least. Anything from just a few replacement parts can put a dent in the budget, as these are specialized components. However, in the long run, this maintenance will save you a fortune. In this article, we will explore how as a millwright or as a business you can employ certain measures to extend the life and performance of your heavy machinery.

Heavy Machinery Maintenance Tip #1: Always be Proactive

No matter how powerful and advanced your heavy-duty machines are, they require some level of basic maintenance to run smoothly. Implementing a regular and proactive approach to maintaining it, is the key to sustained operations. This will reduce your downtime and help minimize unexpected malfunctions down the line. As the saying goes: “Prevention is the best cure.”

Heavy Machinery Maintenance Tip #2: Have Preventive Measures in Place

Picking up on the previous tip, you need to ensure that there is a preventive maintenance program in place. This program should be able to keep a regular schedule as well as anticipate wear and tear over time. Taking continuous action before it is needed will ensure that your machines are performing smoothly without any unexpected breakdowns. This drives up reliability. 

As a part of this step, you need to incorporate regular inspections and parts replacement. Everything has a shelf-life, even mechanical parts. 

Heavy Machinery Maintenance

Check that and replace accordingly. Don’t wait till the last minute. The bonus of having preventive heavy machinery maintenance in place will also get you higher resale value when you want to upgrade.

Heavy Machinery Maintenance Tip #3: Avoid Exceeding the Performance Specs

All machines and their parts come with performance and use-specifications. Factors such as maximum load capacity, range of operations, pressure, temperature, and other limits should be taken into consideration. Check the operator’s manual regularly, use it as a checklist and ensure that the machine is well within its limits. This will help drive down wear and tear and give it a longer life.

Additionally, it can also prevent workplace injuries and accidents. We know all too well how dearly workplace injuries can do to your business, financially or reputation-wise. Do you know those user manuals that come with your new television that none of us bothers to read? Well, there is a reason they include those. Those manuals have everything you need to keep things running smoothly.

“Preventive Maintenance: Don’t start today by doing yesterday’s work. – Deniece Schofield, Author

Heavy Machinery Maintenance

Heavy Machinery Maintenance Tip #4: Get a Millwright on Your Team

This is where having the expertise of Millwrights in Canada comes in. Without a deep and detailed understanding of the industrial machine and all its parts, you can’t do any proper maintenance. The same goes for devising robust maintenance programs. Millwrights who have undergone training, and have some experience under their belt make all the difference when it comes to understanding machines. 

This is one of the main reasons that their talents are so coveted for heavy machinery maintenance.

Heavy Machinery Maintenance Tip #5: Train Your Employees

This may seem obvious, but it needs to be said. Untrained workers in a place that depends on heavy-duty industrial machines can prove to be a disaster. The work productivity aside, the sheer safety risk that it brings to the table should be a concern enough for any business. So, train your employees and invest in it. Additionally, you should also hire experts in heavy machinery maintenance, such as Millwrights.

At Pure Staffing Solutions, we recruit and place some of the best Millwrights in Canada for our clients. We take pride in equipping businesses with competent contractors who always get the job done.

Recent Posts

Women in Skilled Trades: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future

Explore how women are transforming skilled trades, overcoming challenges, and fostering diversity. Discover success stories, training resources, and the role of recruitment agencies in supporting women in these fields.
Read More

Remote Work Revolution: Adapting Recruitment Strategies for a Digital World

Discover how to adapt your recruitment strategies for the digital age of remote work. Learn innovative approaches, benefits, and challenges to stay ahead in the evolving job market.
Read More

Breaking Into the Tech Industry: Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada’s Tech Boom

As Canada’s tech industry continues to flourish, there's a rising demand for skilled trades professionals to support this growth. While many think of the tech sector as being dominated by...
Read More

Expanding Your Horizons: How Canadian Employers Are Seeking Global Talent

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Art of Negotiation: Tips for Securing the Best Contract Terms as a Skilled Worker

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Future of Manufacturing Jobs in Canada: Trends and Predictions for 2024

The manufacturing sector in Canada is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, shifts in global trade, and evolving workforce needs.
Read More

Top 10 Highest-Paying Trades in Canada

Highest-paying trades in Canada

Top 10 Highest-Paying Trades in Canada

You have probably heard people saying how things are changing and how the future is here. Well, with the world becoming more and more automated, skilled positions and trades are surging in demand. This is especially true of a country like Canada as it has a vast job market with high levels of competition and demand for skilled workers. Tradespeople such as plumbers, carpenters, electricians, mechanics and millwrights are surging in demand. There is such a demand for people in this line of work, that these professions stand as some of the highest-paying trades in Canada.

Canada has a great medical care infrastructure and it stands as one of the largest economies in the world. What does that tell you? There are plenty of doctors, lawyers, and business magnates. However, there is a huge gap in the skilled workers’ category if you look at the level of demand. Hands-on skill is something that employers are willing to pay top dollar for these days. It’s with that in mind that we here at Pure Staffing Solutions have put together a list of some of the highest-paying trades in Canada!

Top 10 Highest-Paying Trades in Canada

Now, before we get into it, you should keep in mind that the following list of jobs and their average salaries were taken from data from Canada’s national statistical agency, Statistics Canada as well as a combination of other sites. While they may not be current or exact, it is relevant in the sense that it will give you a holistic idea of the different trades.

1) Industrial Electricians (NOC Code - 7242)

Electricians in general are some of the highest-paid tradespeople in Canada. Apprentices generally start on around 40% of what a fully qualified electrician earns according to CanadianVisa.Org. The average going rate for electricians can come up to somewhere around $50 an hour. Industrial electricians are part of some of the highest-paid trades in Canada.

For example, in the province of Alberta, Canada, they can earn up to $120,000 for work such as installing, maintaining, testing and repairing industrial electrical systems.

Highest-paying trades in Canada

Usually, they work for contractors or maintenance departments of factories, mines, plants, shipyards and so on. While it is a long journey to get certified to work as a professional in this field, it is well worth the struggle. All these factors combine to make this one of the highest-paying trades in Canada.

2) Industrial Mechanics and Millwrights (NOC Code - 7311)

Millwrights and industrial mechanics are skilled workers who maintain, test, troubleshoot, install and repair stationary industrial equipment. This includes things like mechanical equipment in factories, plants, mines, and so on. One particular part of the country where they earn some of the highest salaries is in Saskatchewan. Here millwrights and industrial electricians can command up to $99,000 a year for an average week of work throughout the year according to immigration.ca and Statistics Canada.

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit. – Conrad Hilton, Founder of Hilton Hotels

3) Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics (NOC Code - 7321)

Now, there are two segments of workers in this category, we have truck and transport mechanics as well as automotive service technicians. Truck mechanics have a high demand and are one of the highest-paid trades in Canada for the simple reason of geography. Trucks and big rigs play a vital role in shipping goods across the border. Considering the average workweek, these mechanics could earn up to $100,000 per year as per the website. This is especially applicable in the Northern and North-western Territories of the country.

Now on the other hand we have automotive service technicians. They see the highest pay in the northern territory of Nunavut. While the cost of living is relatively higher than most provinces in Canada, it balances out with the high level of pay that these professionals see. At around $103,000 per year, this is right up there as one of the highest-paying trades in Canada.

highest-paying trades in Canada

4) Heavy-Duty Equipment Technicians (NOC Code - 7312)

Much like millwrights, these mechanics specialize in the repair, installation, maintenance and overhauling of heavy-duty industry mechanics. It is a tough job, to say the least, and it requires a high level of skill and qualification to perform. The job can pay around $103,000 per year according to Immigration.ca. This number applies more to the skilled individuals who find themselves completing an average workweek in Alberta, Canada.

5) Steamfitters, Pipefitters and Sprinkler System Installers (NOC Code - 7252)

This group of skilled tradespeople layout, assemble, fabricate, maintain, troubleshoot and repair piping systems carrying water, steam, chemicals and fuel in heating, cooling, lubricating and other process piping systems, according to Immigration.ca. The website also mentioned how in the Atlantic Canadian province of Nova Scotia, they earn the highest salaries in the country for one reason – The Halifax Shipyard.

This shipping yard has a $25 billion contract with the Canadian navy to build combat ships. This means that the steamfitters in this place earn the highest wages in the trade at around $92,722 per year.

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them. – Walt Disney, American Entrepreneur

6) Welders (NOC Code - 7237)

Welders who work specifically with ferrous and non-ferrous metals as well as those who work for companies that manufacture structural steel, plate works, boilers and so on, earn the most. Generally, they can earn around $85,000 to $88,000 in the highest paying areas such as British Columbia if they work a full-time job or an average workweek. The salaries also depend on the seniority and the experience that the welder has in a particular field.

7) Construction Electricians (NOC Code - 7241)

Most of the skilled workers in this field are self-employed but they can work for contractors or as a part of a maintenance division. These workers are responsible for laying out, assembling, installing, testing, and repairing electrical wiring, fixtures and other related components. In provinces such as British Columbia and Ontario, they can command a salary of around $87,000 a year for an average week’s work.

8) Plumbers (NOC Code - 7251)

While the job itself might not be the most glamorous one, the earning sure is. In areas such as Ontario can make around $78,000 per year as per data taken from Salary.com. This number can range anywhere from $72,304 to $84,000 per year. However, this does not include the bonuses and benefits that they might receive over the same period.

These skilled workers install, repair and maintain pipes, fixtures and other plumbing equipment used for water distribution and wastewater disposal in residential, commercial or industrial buildings.

9) Carpenters (NOC Code - 7271)

These workers construct, maintain, repair construction components and structures made of wood or wood substitutes, certain metals and other related materials. They can be independent, work with companies or for contractors. Working the average workweek, these skilled labourers can earn an average salary of $43,000 to $70,000 per year according to Salary explorer.

10) Long-haul Truck Drives (NOC Code - 7511)

Coming back to the trucking industry of Canada, one of the main sources of transportation of goods across the country is via trucks and big-rigs. We have already established how important the mechanics are, now we turn to the drives of these machines. Long-haul drives can earn an average of $45,000 to $55,000 per year. This plus having it as a part of your job to travel around the country is a pretty great job.

So, there you have it, these are just some of the highest-paying trades in Canada. Once again, the salaries may vary from location to location as well as other factors such as industry experience, qualifications, the company you work for, the specific line of work you specialize in and so on. All those factors aside though, this list should give you a rather good idea of how in-demand skilled workers are in Canada.

Recent Posts

Women in Skilled Trades: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future

Explore how women are transforming skilled trades, overcoming challenges, and fostering diversity. Discover success stories, training resources, and the role of recruitment agencies in supporting women in these fields.
Read More

Remote Work Revolution: Adapting Recruitment Strategies for a Digital World

Discover how to adapt your recruitment strategies for the digital age of remote work. Learn innovative approaches, benefits, and challenges to stay ahead in the evolving job market.
Read More

Breaking Into the Tech Industry: Skilled Trades Jobs in Canada’s Tech Boom

As Canada’s tech industry continues to flourish, there's a rising demand for skilled trades professionals to support this growth. While many think of the tech sector as being dominated by...
Read More

Expanding Your Horizons: How Canadian Employers Are Seeking Global Talent

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Art of Negotiation: Tips for Securing the Best Contract Terms as a Skilled Worker

Learn the essential negotiation techniques to secure the best contract terms as a skilled worker. This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read More

The Future of Manufacturing Jobs in Canada: Trends and Predictions for 2024

The manufacturing sector in Canada is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, shifts in global trade, and evolving workforce needs.
Read More