Canada continues to rank among the world’s top destinations for foreign workers seeking better pay, job security, and long-term settlement opportunities. While many people believe that only highly educated professionals can move to Canada, the truth is that unskilled and low-skilled jobs remain some of the most in-demand roles in the country.
From agriculture to hospitality, retail, logistics, transportation, home support, and construction, thousands of employers across Canada are actively seeking foreign workers to fill labor shortages—often with visa sponsorship options.
This comprehensive guide explores the 15 best-paying unskilled jobs in Canada, their average salaries, job descriptions, requirements, benefits, and how foreigners can apply successfully.
Whether you’re searching for LMIA jobs in Canada, work-permit jobs, or general unskilled jobs with visa sponsorship, this guide gives you everything you need to get started.
Why Choose Canada for Unskilled Work?
Canada’s strong economy, aging population, and rapid expansion in key industries have created a huge demand for unskilled workers. Here’s why Canada is one of the best countries for foreigners who want stable, well-paid work without needing advanced degrees:
1. Worker Shortages Across All Provinces
Industries like agriculture, warehousing, hospitality, janitorial services, and caregiving face persistent labor shortages. Employers often prefer foreign workers to fill long-term roles.
2. Competitive Salaries Compared to Other Countries
Even unskilled jobs pay well. Minimum hourly wages range from $15.55 to $23, depending on the province.
3. Visa Sponsorship and Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways
Many unskilled jobs qualify for:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Caregiver Pilot
These programs can eventually lead to Canadian Permanent Residency.
4. Employee Benefits and Job Security
Most jobs come with:
- Overtime pay
- Health insurance
- Paid breaks
- Retirement benefits
- Union protection
5. A Safe, Diverse, and Inclusive Environment
Canada is known for its friendly people, multicultural society, and safe working conditions—making it ideal for immigrants beginning a new life.
Understanding Unskilled Jobs in Canada
Unskilled or low-skilled jobs usually:
- Do not require a degree
- Require little to no prior experience
- Offer onsite training
- Focus on manual, customer service, or support roles
Unskilled jobs make up the foundation of the Canadian economy, supporting essential services in every province.
15 Best-Paying Unskilled Jobs in Canada for Foreigners
Below are the top roles with descriptions, average salaries, and job expectations.
1. Retail Sales Associate
Retail sales associates work in supermarkets, malls, electronics stores, and clothing shops.
Job Duties
- Assisting customers
- Managing store inventory
- Maintaining store cleanliness
- Handling basic customer service issues
Average Salary
$25,000 – $35,000 per year
Why This Job Is Attractive
Retail jobs are abundant in every province, making it ideal for newcomers with little experience.
2. Cashier
Cashiers work in supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, and restaurants.
Job Duties
- Operating cash registers
- Handling cash and card transactions
- Providing friendly customer service
Average Salary
$22,000 – $30,000 per year
Benefits
Flexible hours and quick hiring processes make cashier work perfect for immigrants starting new careers.
3. Warehouse Worker
Warehousing is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Canada due to e-commerce.
Job Duties
- Sorting and packing orders
- Labeling shipments
- Loading/unloading trucks
- Inventory management
Average Salary
$26,000 – $36,000 per year
Why Foreigners Love This Job
Warehouses often provide visa sponsorship, free safety training, and opportunities for overtime pay.
4. Cleaner / Janitor
Cleaners work in offices, schools, shopping centers, and hospitals.
Job Duties
- Sweeping, mopping, dusting
- Maintaining restrooms
- Waste disposal
- Ensuring a hygienic environment
Average Salary
$24,000 – $32,000 per year
Why It’s in High Demand
The cleaning industry is essential, especially post-pandemic, creating steady employment for foreign workers.
5. Construction Laborer
Construction workers are crucial in Canada’s booming building and infrastructure industry.
Job Duties
- Carrying materials
- Assisting machine operators
- Performing site cleanup
- Helping build structures
Average Salary
$30,000 – $40,000 per year
Advancement Opportunities
Workers can grow into:
- Machine operator
- Foreman
- Site supervisor
6. Farm Worker
Agriculture is one of the most immigration-friendly sectors in Canada.
Job Duties
- Planting and harvesting crops
- Feeding and caring for animals
- Farm cleaning and maintenance
Average Salary
$22,000 – $30,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship
Most farm jobs qualify under:
- SAWP
- Agri-Food Pilot
- LMIA-sponsored jobs
7. Food Service Worker
These workers support restaurants, cafeterias, hotels, and fast-food chains.
Job Duties
- Preparing meals
- Serving customers
- Cleaning tables
- Supporting kitchen staff
Average Salary
$20,000 – $28,000 per year
Why It’s Ideal for Immigrants
Food service roles are beginner-friendly and offer fast hiring.
8. Delivery Driver
Delivery drivers work with courier companies, meal delivery apps, and retail businesses.
Job Duties
- Transporting goods
- Using GPS navigation
- Ensuring timely deliveries
Average Salary
$26,000 – $36,000 per year
Qualifications
A valid driver’s license is usually required.
9. Security Guard
Security guards support commercial buildings, malls, hospitals, and residential areas.
Job Duties
- Monitoring premises
- Operating CCTV systems
- Responding to security incidents
Average Salary
$25,000 – $35,000 per year
Benefits
Security jobs offer stable hours and opportunities for certification upgrades.
10. Personal Care Aide
Care aides assist elderly, disabled, and sick individuals.
Job Duties
- Helping with bathing, dressing, and feeding
- Medication reminders
- Providing companionship
Average Salary
$24,000 – $32,000 per year
Immigration Pathway
The Home Support Worker Pilot offers a direct route to Permanent Residency.
11. Hotel Housekeeper
Housekeepers keep hotel rooms and guest areas sparkling clean.
Job Duties
- Changing bed linens
- Dusting and vacuuming
- Replenishing toiletries
Average Salary
$22,000 – $30,000 per year
Why It’s Popular
Hotels are always hiring, especially in tourist provinces like BC and Alberta.
12. Dishwasher
Dishwashers work in restaurants, hotels, and resort kitchens.
Job Duties
- Cleaning plates, utensils, and pots
- Keeping the kitchen sanitized
Average Salary
$20,000 – $28,000 per year
Entry-Level Friendly
No experience needed—employers train newcomers.
13. Parking Lot Attendant
Attendants assist drivers in busy parking facilities.
Job Duties
- Guiding customers
- Monitoring parking lots
- Issuing tickets
Average Salary
$20,000 – $28,000 per year
14. Laundry Attendant
Laundry attendants work in hotels, hospitals, and laundromats.
Job Duties
- Washing and drying fabrics
- Folding linens
- Handling laundry equipment
Average Salary
$22,000 – $30,000 per year
15. Mover
Movers help customers transport their belongings to new homes or offices.
Job Duties
- Packing and wrapping items
- Lifting heavy furniture
- Loading/unloading trucks
Average Salary
$24,000 – $32,000 per year
Benefits of Working Unskilled Jobs in Canada
Choosing an unskilled job in Canada offers significant advantages:
✔ Competitive hourly wages
✔ Stable, long-term employment
✔ Opportunities for overtime pay
✔ Employer-sponsored visas
✔ Training and career growth
✔ Work-life balance
✔ Safe and regulated work environment
These benefits make Canada one of the best destinations for foreigners seeking better opportunities.
How to Find Unskilled Jobs in Canada
Here are reliable websites and methods to land a job fast:
Top Canadian Job Websites
- Indeed Canada
- JobBank.gc.ca (Government website)
- Workopolis
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Glassdoor
- Canada Job Portal
- ZipRecruiter Canada
Other Ways to Find Jobs
- Recruitment agencies
- Networking with local communities
- Visiting company websites directly
- Attending job fairs
Tips for Securing an Unskilled Job as a Foreigner
1. Create a Canadian-Style Resume
Highlight:
- Soft skills (reliability, teamwork, communication)
- Customer service experience
- Physical fitness (for labor jobs)
- Ability to work under pressure
2. Prepare for Interviews
Practice answering questions like:
- “Why do you want to work in Canada?”
- “What makes you reliable?”
3. Show Willingness to Learn
Canadian employers value adaptability more than degrees.
4. Apply Consistently
Send applications every day to increase your chances.
Conclusion
Unskilled jobs in Canada offer tremendous opportunities for foreigners seeking stable income, career growth, and a chance to build a new life in a safe, prosperous country. With salaries ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 per year, competitive benefits, and multiple immigration pathways, Canada continues to be one of the best destinations for international job seekers.
Whether you’re interested in retail, care work, agriculture, hospitality, or logistics, the demand for unskilled workers remains strong—and now is the perfect time to apply.