In Canada, high-paying jobs are not limited to university graduates. Many lucrative career paths exist for individuals with vocational training, certifications, or relevant experience. For those seeking financial stability, job security, and career growth without investing years in a university degree, Canada offers excellent opportunities across multiple industries.
Canada’s economy is diverse, encompassing technology, healthcare, trades, manufacturing, transportation, and more. These sectors have been experiencing labor shortages, especially in skilled trades and technical professions. As a result, employers increasingly value practical skills, experience, and certifications over formal university education.
This comprehensive guide explores Canada’s best jobs that pay well without a university degree, highlighting salary ranges, required skills, growth potential, and application tips. Whether you are a high school graduate, a vocational student, or an immigrant seeking a career path, this guide will help you navigate Canada’s job market.
Why High-Paying Jobs Without a Degree Are Possible in Canada
Unlike some countries where university education is essential for career advancement, Canada offers pathways based on skills, experience, and vocational training. Several factors contribute to this trend:
- Labor Shortages: Industries like construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation consistently face shortages, increasing wages for skilled workers.
- Apprenticeship Programs: Canada has strong vocational training systems and apprenticeship programs that prepare workers for high-paying roles.
- Immigration and Work Programs: Many skilled immigrants gain employment in technical roles without a degree, often with visa sponsorship.
- Merit-Based Compensation: Employers often pay more for experience, certifications, and technical expertise than for formal degrees.
By focusing on skill development and certifications, you can access high-income careers without pursuing a university degree.
Top High-Paying Jobs in Canada That Don’t Require a University Degree
Below are some of the best-paying jobs in Canada for individuals without a university degree. Salaries may vary depending on location, experience, and employer.
1. Electrician
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. They are in high demand across Canada, especially in growing cities and industrial regions.
Average Salary: CAD 60,000 – CAD 90,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Completion of an apprenticeship program
- Provincial or territorial certification
- Strong problem-solving skills
Electricians benefit from job security, overtime pay, and opportunities for self-employment.
2. Plumber
Plumbers work on water supply systems, sanitation, and heating. The trade offers excellent income potential, particularly for those running their own business.
Average Salary: CAD 55,000 – CAD 85,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Completion of a plumbing apprenticeship
- Certification from the relevant provincial authority
Plumbing is a trade that is consistently in demand across Canada, with urban and rural opportunities.
3. Heavy Equipment Operator
Heavy equipment operators manage machinery used in construction, mining, forestry, and infrastructure projects.
Average Salary: CAD 50,000 – CAD 80,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Completion of a heavy equipment training program
- Safety certifications (e.g., WHMIS)
- Physical fitness
Operators often earn overtime pay and project-based bonuses, making this one of the highest-paying non-degree careers.
4. Commercial Truck Driver
Truck drivers transport goods across provinces and internationally. With Canada’s growing logistics and supply chain needs, drivers are highly sought after.
Average Salary: CAD 50,000 – CAD 75,000 per year
Requirements:
- Valid commercial driver’s license (Class 1 or equivalent)
- Clean driving record
- Physical stamina
- On-the-job training
Long-haul and specialized drivers (hazardous materials, oversized loads) can earn even more.
5. Construction Supervisor / Foreman
Supervisors manage teams on construction sites, ensuring projects meet deadlines, budgets, and safety standards.
Average Salary: CAD 60,000 – CAD 90,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Several years of hands-on construction experience
- Strong leadership skills
- Relevant certifications (e.g., safety training)
Construction supervisors are in demand nationwide, particularly in urban development projects.
6. Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Aircraft maintenance technicians inspect, repair, and maintain airplanes and helicopters. The aviation industry offers competitive salaries and career stability.
Average Salary: CAD 60,000 – CAD 90,000 per year
Requirements:
- Completion of an aviation maintenance program
- Certification by Transport Canada
- Attention to detail and technical skills
Technicians with specialized aircraft experience can earn higher salaries.
7. Industrial Electrician / Maintenance Technician
Industrial electricians and maintenance technicians keep machinery and production lines operating efficiently in factories, refineries, and plants.
Average Salary: CAD 55,000 – CAD 85,000 per year
Requirements:
- Technical diploma or apprenticeship
- Electrical certifications
- Mechanical knowledge and troubleshooting skills
This role often includes shift work with high overtime pay.
8. Welder
Welders join metal parts using heat and pressure for construction, manufacturing, and industrial applications. Skilled welders can command high wages.
Average Salary: CAD 50,000 – CAD 80,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Completion of a welding program or apprenticeship
- Certification in specific welding techniques (e.g., MIG, TIG, SMAW)
Experienced welders can work in oil and gas, mining, or shipbuilding, which offer higher salaries and travel opportunities.
9. Elevator Installer / Repairer
Elevator installers and repairers handle installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators and escalators. It is a high-paying trade due to skill scarcity.
Average Salary: CAD 70,000 – CAD 95,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Apprenticeship in elevator mechanics
- Safety certifications
This specialized field has excellent long-term growth and union support.
10. Powerline Technician / Lineman
Powerline technicians install and maintain electrical transmission systems. It is physically demanding but very well-compensated.
Average Salary: CAD 65,000 – CAD 90,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Completion of an electrical powerline program or apprenticeship
- Safety certifications and physical fitness
11. HVAC Technician
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians install and repair climate control systems in homes, offices, and factories.
Average Salary: CAD 50,000 – CAD 80,000 per year
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Completion of HVAC training or apprenticeship
- Technical certification
HVAC technicians are in high demand across Canada, especially in major urban centers.
Benefits of Non-Degree High-Paying Jobs
- Fast Entry Into the Workforce – No need for 3–4 years of university
- High Income Potential – Many trades offer six-figure salaries with experience
- Job Security – Skilled trades are always in demand
- Flexible Career Paths – Opportunities for entrepreneurship and self-employment
- Pathway to Permanent Residency – Some immigration programs prioritize skilled workers in trades
How to Get These Jobs in Canada
Step 1: Choose Your Trade or Career Path
Identify your interests and research programs or certifications required.
Step 2: Complete Training or Apprenticeship
Enroll in vocational schools, technical colleges, or government-certified apprenticeship programs.
Step 3: Obtain Certifications
Certifications improve employability and may be required for licensing.
Step 4: Apply for Jobs
Use online job portals, recruitment agencies, or direct company applications. Networking can also help.
Step 5: Consider Immigration Programs (For Foreign Workers)
Programs like the Federal Skilled Trades Program, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), and employer-sponsored work permits can help immigrants secure employment.
Challenges to Consider
- Physically demanding work in trades
- Shift work or irregular hours
- Seasonal employment in some sectors
- Initial apprenticeship may offer lower pay before gaining experience