Explore Opportunities

A home is the biggest investment most people make. They dream about owning a home and work hard to get there. Rental properties are also an important part of Canada’s housing stock too, and the housing industry builds those too. Putting roofs over people’s heads that are in housing need is also critically important, and the residential construction industry builds community housing as well, contributing to the well-being of those that need a hand. Whether you're building a brand-new home or renovating an existing home, skilled tradespeople are in the business of helping others realize their housing needs and dreams. Skilled trades make a difference in people’s lives.

Your skills can also make a difference for the environment. Net zero construction and renovation help to reduce the environmental impact of housing. Through years of research and innovation, the homebuilding industry has made great advances in energy efficiency, water conservation and other environmental areas.

Skilled trades can also have a very positive impact for the elderly. Many Canadians are looking to age in place; they want to live in their homes longer and require adaptations to make it happen.
The industry is always striving to achieve more, and skilled trades are an important part of this effort.

which profession is best for you?

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association has identified approximately 40 provincially designated skilled trades in the residential construction industry. You're likely to find your ideal match among these job possibilities.

Beyond the apprenticeable skilled trades below, there are many other skilled-worker occupations involving installation of specific products. Training in those jobs is often provided by contracting/installer companies, trade associations, manufacturers, or retailers. Some provide certification. These are also great paths into a career in residential construction.

Architect

Architect

Description: Designing and organizing a new construction is the responsibility of an architect or architectural designer. They are responsible for client discussions, design sketches, and contractor negotiations.
Essential Skills: Oral Communication, Problem Solving, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $72,120 (Mid range) - $115,380 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: A bachelor's degree in architecture from an authorised university or completion of courses at the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) may be prerequisites for aspiring architects.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Bricklayer

Bricklayer

Description: Bricklayers build or repair walls, arches, chimneys, fireplaces, and other buildings. They lay bricks, concrete blocks, stone, and other similar materials in accordance with plans and specifications.
Essential Skills: Document Use, Job Task Planning and Organizing, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $72,800 (Mid range) - $86,340 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Cabinet Maker

Cabinet Maker

Description: Wooden cabinets, furniture, and fittings are built, repaired, and installed by cabinetmakers. They work for specialty furniture businesses, building companies, and cabinetmaking contractors, or they might work for themselves.
Essential Skills: Decision Making, Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $45,760 (Mid range) - $71,760 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is not required in any province
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Carpenter

Carpenter

Description: Carpenters make up Canada's largest group of skilled workers. They construct, install, maintain, and repair wood, wood substitutes, and other materials structures.
Essential Skills: Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $54,080 (Mid range) - $79,290 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Concrete Finisher

Concrete Finisher

Description: Install, maintain, and restore various masonry structures such as floors, ceilings, sidewalks, roads, and patios by smoothing and finishing freshly poured concrete, applying curing or surface treatments, and installing, maintaining, and restoring various masonry structures such as floors, ceilings, sidewalks, roads, and patios.
Essential Skills: Decision Making, Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $62,400 (Mid range) - $79,270 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Construction Manager

Construction Manager

Description: Construction managers plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the activities of a construction company or a construction department within a company, under the direction of a general manager or other senior manager.
Essential Skills: Decision Making, Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $83,200 (Mid range) - $141,440 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: A university degree in civil engineering or a college diploma in construction technology is usually required.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Drywall Taper

Drywall Taper

Description: Measures and cuts drywall panels to fit in and around specific spaces such as doors, windows, electrical outlets, and lighting fixtures. They install drywall panels to wood or metal studs.
Essential Skills: Decision Making, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $61,000 (Mid range) - $81,560 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is not required in any province
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Electrician

Electrician

Description: Electricians prepare, assemble, install, test, diagnose, and repair electrical wiring, fixtures, control devices, and related equipment.
Essential Skills: Digital Technology, Document Use, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $66,560 (Mid range) - $89,440 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships and Certification is required for all provinces
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Energy Advisor

Energy Advisor

Description: Energy advisors utilise their knowledge in conjunction with energy modelling software to assist construction professionals, homeowners, and those considering a home purchase in making better-informed decisions regarding energy-saving modifications and retrofits.
Essential Skills: Oral Communication, Problem Solving, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $62,000 (Mid range) - $102,000 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: To become an EA, the candidate must pass two qualification exams, the Foundation Level Exam and the Energy Advisor (House) Exam and be affiliated with an NRCan-licensed service organization (SO) to finalize their registration with NRCan.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Estimator

Description: Construction estimators analyze costs of and prepare estimates on civil engineering, architectural, structural, electrical and mechanical construction projects.
Essential Skills: Decision Making, Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $63,011 (Mid range) - $94,352 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: This occupation usually requies a college diploma, an apprenticeship training of 2 or more years, or experience working in a supervisory occupation.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Floorcovering Installer

Floorcovering Installer

Description: Carpet, wood, linoleum, vinyl, and other resilient floor coverings are installed by floor covering installers in residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities.
Essential Skills: Document Use, Job Task Planning and Organizing, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $45,070 (Mid range) - $72,800 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Framer

Framer

Description: Foundations, external doors and windows, floors, walls, and roofs are all built, installed, maintained, and repaired by framers.
Essential Skills: Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $54,080 (Mid range) - $79,290 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is not required in any province
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Gasfitter

Gasfitter

Description: Gasfitters work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, installing, inspecting, repairing, and maintaining gas lines and gas equipment such as metres, regulators, heating units, and appliances.
Essential Skills: Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $60,320 (Mid range) - $89,440 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Equipment Operator

Equipment Operators

Description: Equipment operators operate heavy equipment used in the residential construction industry. Equipment operators have been in high demand, and the market for these individuals continues to grow as employers continue to search for qualified individuals to fill these roles.
Essential Skills: Oral Communication, Problem Solving, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $58,030 (Mid range) - $79,040 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: In Quebec, certification is mandatory; in Newfoundland and Labrador and the Northwest Territories, certification is optional but available. If certification is not offered, it could be possible to enroll in an apprenticeship program through your local labor union.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Insulation Installer

Insulation Installer

Description: To stop or lessen the passage of heat, cold, sound, or fire, insulators apply insulating materials to plumbing, air-handling, heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, piping equipment, pressure vessels, and walls, floors, and ceilings of buildings and other structures.
Essential Skills: Oral Communication, Problem Solving, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $67,340 (Mid range) - $80,808 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Interior Finisher

Interior Finisher

Description: Interior finishers build, install and repair interior wall panelling, trim and crown mouldings for single- and multi-family homes, and for commercial buildings.
Essential Skills: Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $54,080 (Mid range) - $79,290 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Painter

Painter

Description: Painters and decorators work on the inside and exterior surfaces of buildings and other structures, applying paint, wallpaper, and other finishes.
Essential Skills: Oral Communication, Job Task Planning and Organizing, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $49,920 (Mid range) - $76,730 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Plumber

Plumber

Description: Plumbers install, repair, and maintain pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing equipment in residential, commercial, and industrial structures for water distribution and wastewater disposal.
Essential Skills: Numeracy, Significant Use of Memory, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $62,400 (Mid range) - $86,010 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships and Certification is required for all most all provinces (excluding Manitoba)
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Project Manager

Project Manager

Description: Under the supervision of a construction manager, general manager, or other senior management, project managers and project coordinators plan, schedule, organise, lead, control, and assess the operations of construction projects.
Essential Skills: Oral Communication, Job Task Planning and Organizing, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $85,010 (Mid range) - $132,000 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a reliable resource for details on programmes and sources of training for this profession.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Refrigerator and Air Conditioning Mechanic

Refrigerator and Air Conditioning Mechanic

Description: Residential central air conditioning systems, commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning systems, and integrated heating, ventilation, and cooling systems are all installed, maintained, repaired, and overhauled by refrigeration and air conditioning technicians.
Essential Skills: Numeracy, Significant Use of Memory, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $67,160 (Mid range) - $99,840 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships and Certification is required for all provinces
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Roofer

Roofer

Description: Roofers install, repair, or replace shingles, shakes, or other roofing tiles.
Essential Skills: Numeracy, Significant Use of Memory, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $54,080 (Mid range) - $81,220 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet Metal Worker

Description: Fabricators, assemblers, installers, and repairers of sheet metal goods ranging from furnaces to ventilation systems to all sheet metal products utilised in the building sector.
Essential Skills: Numeracy, Problem solving, Working with Others
Salary Range*: $63,560 (Mid range) - $84,090 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Site Superintendant

Site Superintendent

Description: Construction site superintendents are in charge of overall construction operations within the defined design, budget, and scheduling parameters. They also supervise the construction process. This might involve organising, directing, and managing operations on the building site, as well as planning and scheduling.
Essential Skills: Decision Making, Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $82,370 (Mid range) - $108,330 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: The Canadian Construction Association grants Gold Seal Certificates to eligible individuals. who complete the Gold Seal Certificate - Site Superintendent designation.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Sprinkler System Installer

Sprinkler System Installer

Description: Sprinkler system installers construct, install, test, maintain, and repair water, foam, carbon dioxide, and dry chemical sprinkler systems for fire protection in buildings.
Essential Skills: Numeracy, Problem solving, Oral Communication
Salary Range*: $83,200 (Mid range) - $95,240 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Surveyor

Surveyor

Description: Surveyors define property borders, plan, coordinate, and carry out legal surveys as well as create and maintain maps and records.
Essential Skills: Decision Making, Document Use, Numeracy, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $69,990 (Mid range) - $135,200 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: To practice as a surveyor, you typically require a federal or provincial licence from one of the provinces or territories.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

Tile Setter

Tile Setter

Description: Tile setters use ceramic, marble, and quarry tiles, mosaics, or terrazzo to cover interior and exterior walls, floors, and ceilings.
Essential Skills: Document Use, Job Task Planning and Organizing, Problem Solving
Salary Range*: $65,480 (Mid range) - $81,740 (High range)
Training or Certification Required: Apprenticeships are recommended; Certification is required in some provinces.
Learn more here

*The wage range shown is calculated by multiplying hourly rates by a 40-hour work week. Wages can differ depending on the contract, firm, region, and collective bargaining agreements (if any), as well as local and national economic situations. Overtime is not included. Wage data obtained from the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.

The list of designated trades varies slightly from one province to another. Some provinces have designated various specialized residential trades and occupations in addition to those above as part of the apprenticeship program, such as framer and communications technician.

Explore the list of apprenticeship-eligible trades in your area!

Source:

https://www.careersinconstruction.ca/en/careers/career-finder