College is not the only path to earning a solid living in Canada. If you’re practical, hands-on, and willing to learn real-world skills, skilled trades can pay as much or more than many white-collar office jobs. And you don’t have to bury yourself in student debt for four years.
In this guide, you’ll get an honest breakdown of the best trade jobs in Canada that pay well, require no university degree, and offer plenty of demand in 2025 and beyond.
Why Skilled Trades Are a Smart Career Choice
Canada is facing a massive skilled labour shortage. Retiring baby boomers and new infrastructure projects are opening thousands of well-paid opportunities in trades. Electricians, plumbers, welders, HVAC techs, and many more are in huge demand.
These jobs pay well, have clear apprenticeship paths, and offer the satisfaction of building or fixing real things. Many tradespeople go on to open their own businesses, earning six figures or more.
How Much Can You Make in the Trades?
The average wage for skilled trades in Canada ranges from $25–$55 per hour, depending on the trade and your experience level. That works out to $50,000–$120,000+ per year once you’re certified and fully working.
Many union jobs come with benefits, pension plans, and overtime opportunities. Some trades even pay better than junior office roles that do require a degree.
Best High-Paying Trades in Canada (No Degree Needed)
Here’s a list of top trades that consistently pay well, have solid job security, and don’t demand a university degree. Most require an apprenticeship, which means you learn on the job while earning money.
1. Electrician
What you’ll do: Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial sites.
Pay: $60,000–$100,000+ per year once certified. Some master electricians make six figures easily.
How to start: Complete an electrician apprenticeship program through your province, which mixes classroom learning and paid work.
2. Plumber
What you’ll do: Install and repair water supply lines, waste disposal systems, and related appliances.
Pay: $55,000–$95,000 per year on average. Specialized or self-employed plumbers can earn more.
How to start: Register as an apprentice plumber and learn on the job under a certified journeyman.
3. Heavy Equipment Operator
What you’ll do: Operate large machinery like bulldozers, cranes, and excavators on construction sites.
Pay: $55,000–$95,000 annually, depending on your equipment and the industry.
How to start: Take a certified training course, then get hired by construction firms or municipalities.
4. Welder
What you’ll do: Join metal parts for construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding.
Pay: $50,000–$85,000 per year, with opportunities to earn more in specialized or remote jobs.
How to start: Complete a welding training program at a trade school, then apprentice under an experienced welder
5. HVAC Technician
What you’ll do: Install and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Pay: $50,000–$90,000 per year. Demand is rising as climate tech grows.
How to start: Enroll in an HVAC technician training program and get hands-on experience through an apprenticeship.
6. Carpenter
What you’ll do: Build and repair structures like houses, cabinets, and frameworks.
Pay: $45,000–$80,000 per year. Unionized carpenters or those who run their own businesses can earn more.
How to start: Start as an apprentice with a local contractor or union.
7. Truck Driver (Long Haul)
What you’ll do: Drive goods across provinces and borders. Long haul drivers often earn more.
Pay: $55,000–$100,000 per year, especially for specialized freight or remote routes.
How to start: Get a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) and training through an accredited truck driving school.
8. Elevator Mechanic
What you’ll do: Install, maintain, and repair elevators and escalators.
Pay: $80,000–$120,000 per year. This is one of the highest-paying trades in Canada.
How to start: Complete a four-year apprenticeship, often through a union or large company.
9. Pipefitter or Steamfitter
What you’ll do: Install and repair piping systems in industrial or commercial buildings.
Pay: $60,000–$100,000 per year.
How to start: Enroll in a pipefitting apprenticeship program and train under licensed tradespeople.
10. Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)
What you’ll do: Install and maintain machinery in factories, mines, and plants.
Pay: $55,000–$95,000 per year.
How to start: Complete a millwright apprenticeship, which combines classroom learning with paid work.
How to Get Started in a Trade
- Pick your trade. Research demand in your province.
- Check apprenticeship requirements. Each province sets its own.
- Find a sponsor employer or union. You’ll work and learn under certified tradespeople.
- Complete required hours and exams. Most trades take 2–5 years to fully certify.
- Earn while you learn. Unlike university, apprenticeships pay you from day one.
Where to Find Trade Jobs in Canada
- Local unions and trade associations
- Company websites (construction firms, contractors, factories)
- Government apprenticeship programs
- Job boards like Indeed, Workopolis, and Glassdoor
- Trade schools often help connect students to employers
Who Should Consider a Skilled Trade?
- High school graduates who don’t want college debt
- Career changers tired of office jobs
- Immigrants with skills from back home
- Anyone who likes hands-on work and problem solving
Final Tips for Success in the Trades
Skilled trades can lead to great pay, job security, and even self-employment. Many tradespeople eventually run their own businesses, hire teams, and make six figures or more.
If you’re ready to get your hands dirty and build something real, the trades could be your best career move in 2025.
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