Not having a university degree doesn’t mean you can’t land a high-paying job in Canada. While a degree often opens doors to specific careers, many industries value experience, skill, and certification over formal education. In fact, Canada is home to numerous well-paying careers that prioritize hands-on expertise, technical abilities, or trade qualifications over academic credentials.
This guide highlights the top high-paying jobs in Canada that don’t require a degree, how you can qualify for these roles, and what you can expect in terms of job growth and salary.
1. Construction Manager
Average Salary: CAD 85,000 – CAD 120,000 per year
Construction managers are responsible for overseeing construction projects, managing teams, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly from start to finish. Though some may have degrees, many rise through the ranks after starting as construction workers or tradespeople.
Requirements: Typically, a high school diploma and several years of experience in construction, along with strong leadership and organizational skills. Certification as a construction manager is often available but not required.
Why It Pays Well: The demand for housing, commercial buildings, and infrastructure in Canada is continually growing, making construction management a lucrative field.
2. Elevator Mechanic
Average Salary: CAD 80,000 – CAD 120,000 per year
Elevator mechanics install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. This role is highly specialized and requires technical expertise, but not a degree.
Requirements: Elevator mechanics must complete an apprenticeship program, which typically lasts four to five years, and obtain certification through a regulatory body. The work is physically demanding but well-compensated.
Why It Pays Well: Elevator mechanics are in high demand due to the technical nature of the job and the importance of safety in this field.
3. Real Estate Agent
Average Salary: CAD 55,000 – CAD 150,000 per year (commission-based)
Real estate agents help people buy, sell, and rent properties, earning a commission from each transaction. While the income varies based on market conditions and individual performance, successful agents can earn a high income.
Requirements: You need to pass a real estate licensing course, which usually takes several months. Sales and people skills are crucial, as well as knowledge of the local housing market.
Why It Pays Well: Real estate can be a high-reward profession, especially in booming markets like Toronto or Vancouver, where property prices and demand are high.
4. Commercial Pilot
Average Salary: CAD 70,000 – CAD 120,000 per year
Becoming a commercial pilot allows you to travel while earning a substantial salary. While an airline pilot often requires a degree, many other piloting jobs, such as charter, agricultural, and freight pilots, don’t.
Requirements: You need to attend a flight school, obtain a commercial pilot’s license, and accumulate flight hours. This process can take one to two years.
Why It Pays Well: Pilots are highly skilled professionals, and the responsibility of safely transporting people or cargo commands a significant salary.
5. Power Line Technician
Average Salary: CAD 70,000 – CAD 100,000 per year
Power line technicians are responsible for building, maintaining, and repairing electrical transmission and distribution systems. This is a physically demanding job, often done outdoors in various weather conditions.
Requirements: You’ll need to complete an apprenticeship program, which includes both classroom training and on-the-job experience. Certification is required in many provinces.
Why It Pays Well: The job is critical to maintaining electrical infrastructure, and the technical skills and physical demands contribute to high wages.
6. Plumber
Average Salary: CAD 50,000 – CAD 100,000 per year
Plumbers install and repair pipes in homes and businesses, ensuring access to water, gas, and proper drainage. Experienced plumbers who specialize in commercial or industrial projects tend to earn higher salaries.
Requirements: Plumbers typically complete a four- to five-year apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with technical education. Certification is required in most provinces.
Why It Pays Well: The demand for plumbers remains high, as they are needed in new construction, renovations, and maintenance projects.
7. Truck Driver
Average Salary: CAD 50,000 – CAD 100,000 per year
Truck drivers, particularly those who drive long-haul routes, can earn significant income. The trucking industry is essential to Canada’s economy, especially with the growing demand for online shopping and goods transportation.
Requirements: A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required, which involves passing a written and driving test. Specialized training for specific types of vehicles (such as tanker or hazardous materials) can lead to higher pay.
Why It Pays Well: The demand for truck drivers is high, particularly for long-haul drivers, as the logistics industry is crucial for moving goods across the country.
8. Firefighter
Average Salary: CAD 60,000 – CAD 100,000 per year
Firefighters respond to emergency situations such as fires, accidents, and natural disasters. They also provide fire prevention education and community outreach.
Requirements: Most firefighters undergo rigorous physical training and must pass a written exam, physical fitness test, and psychological assessment. Many also complete fire science courses at community colleges or technical institutes, though a degree isn’t required.
Why It Pays Well: Firefighting is a dangerous job that requires quick thinking, physical fitness, and the ability to handle stressful situations. The risks involved contribute to the high pay.
9. Electrician
Average Salary: CAD 55,000 – CAD 90,000 per year
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. As with plumbers, those who specialize in complex commercial projects can earn significantly higher wages.
Requirements: You’ll need to complete an apprenticeship program, which usually takes four to five years, and obtain certification. Continuing education is often required to keep up with new technologies and safety regulations.
Why It Pays Well: The technical skills and potential hazards of the job make electricians in high demand, and salaries reflect the expertise required.
10. Welder
Average Salary: CAD 45,000 – CAD 90,000 per year
Welders work in a variety of industries, from construction to manufacturing, fusing metals together using specialized tools. The pay can be even higher for those who specialize in high-risk or underwater welding.
Requirements: Welders often start with vocational training or apprenticeships. Some certification may be required, especially for more advanced welding techniques.
Why It Pays Well: Welding is a skill that’s always in demand, especially in industrial and construction sectors. Skilled welders are crucial to major infrastructure projects.
Related: How to Get a Canadian Work Permit
Conclusion
While having a university degree can open doors to certain careers, it’s far from the only path to financial success in Canada. Many high-paying jobs rely on technical skills, practical experience, and certifications rather than academic qualifications. By pursuing trades, apprenticeships, or specialized training, you can build a rewarding career that offers both job security and high pay. With Canada’s growing economy, the demand for skilled professionals in these fields is expected to continue, making now an ideal time to explore your options.