Canada continues to face nationwide labour shortages, creating thousands of job opportunities for workers without a university degree. In 2026, many of the most in-demand jobs fall under skilled trades, transportation, caregiving, agriculture, and processing sectors.
These roles offer competitive salaries, strong job security, and accessible immigration pathways for international applicants who have hands-on experience or are willing to undergo short training programs.
Below is a full guide to the best jobs in Canada without a degree in 2026, including salary expectations, high-demand provinces, and immigration routes you can use to work and eventually settle in Canada.
Top Jobs in Canada Without a Degree in 2026 (With Salaries & High-Demand Regions)
Canada recorded over 500,000 job openings as of 2025, many of which do not require college or university education. These positions focus on practical skills, training, and experience rather than academic qualifications.
Here are the top jobs you can get in Canada without a degree in 2026:
Electricians (NOC 72200)
Electricians install, repair, and maintain electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. This role requires certification through provincial training, but not a university degree.
- Average Salary: CAD 58,695 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Alberta, Manitoba, PEI, Nova Scotia, Yukon, Saskatchewan
Fish Plant Workers (NOC 94142)
Fish plant workers wash, prepare, cut, and package seafood products in processing facilities. These roles require physical stamina but no formal education.
- Average Salary: CAD 30,459 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia
Home Care Support Providers (NOC 44101)
No degree is required, but caregivers may need short training or certification.
- Average Salary: CAD 35,100 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia
Industrial Butchers (NOC 94141)
Industrial butchers work in large meat-processing plants to prepare products for packaging and distribution. The work is fast-paced and requires precision and physical strength.
- Average Salary: CAD 39,000 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec
Miners (NOC 84100)
Miners operate in underground or open-pit sites to extract minerals and materials. While training is required, no university education is needed.
- Average Salary: CAD 72,150 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan
Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101)
LPNs assist registered nurses and physicians by administering medications, taking vitals, and supporting patient care. A college diploma is required—not a university degree.
- Average Salary: CAD 55,965 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan
Welders (NOC 72106)
Welders join metal components for construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and automotive industries. You only need a welding certificate and practical training.
- Average Salary: CAD 50,700 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Nova Scotia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, PEI
- Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 73300)
Truck drivers move goods across Canada and the U.S., keeping the supply chain functional. A commercial driver’s licence (CDL) is required.
- Average Salary: CAD 46,800 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Manitoba, Prince Edward Island
Farm Workers (NOC 85100)
Farm workers plant crops, operate farm machinery, care for livestock, and harvest produce. These roles are seasonal but widely available.
- Average Salary: CAD 35,100 per year
- High-Demand Provinces: Alberta, Nova Scotia, Ontario, PEI
Retail Salespersons (NOC 64100)
Retail sales workers assist customers, stock shelves, and process payments. No degree is needed, and many employers offer paid training.
- Average Salary: CAD 29,640 per year (often higher with commissions)
- High-Demand Provinces: Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Yukon
How to Get a Job in Canada Without a Degree
Here are steps to increase your chances of securing employment:
- Highlight your hands-on experience, certifications, and practical skills
- Use Canadian job portals such as Job Bank Canada, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster
- Apply for roles in sectors experiencing critical labour shortages
- Get short certifications where required (e.g., welding, caregiving, LPN, truck driving)
- Prepare a Canadian-style resume to improve interview chances
Immigration Pathways to Canada Without a Degree
You do NOT need a degree to immigrate to Canada. Several programs are specifically designed for skilled and semi-skilled workers.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
This program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers when no locals are available. Requirements include:
- Valid job offer
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
- Proof of skills and experience
Pilot Programs for Non-Degree Workers
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Open to workers in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, and Newfoundland & Labrador.
Home Care Worker Pilot
For caregivers who can transition from a work permit to permanent residency.
These pathways accept applicants with diplomas, certificates, or relevant experience
International Experience Canada (IEC)
This working holiday program allows young individuals from partner countries to work in Canada temporarily—no degree needed.
Why Work in Canada Without a Degree?
Canada remains one of the best countries for non-degree workers due to:
- Strong worker rights and safety laws
- High demand in trades, caregiving, manufacturing, and transport
- Competitive wages and overtime options
- Opportunities for permanent residency
- Better career growth through training and certifications
FAQ
What is the highest-paying job in Canada without a degree?
Miners and electricians earn some of the highest salaries, with miners making an average of CAD 72,150 per year.
Can truck drivers move to Canada without a degree?
Yes. Truck drivers only need a commercial driver’s licence and experience to qualify.
Do healthcare jobs require a degree?
Not all. Licensed Practical Nurses and Home Care Workers require certifications—not university degrees.
Are non-degree jobs stable in Canada?
Yes. With ongoing labour shortages, many roles offer long-term employment and pathways to PR.
What immigration programs can I use without a degree?
TFWP, Atlantic Immigration Program, Home Care Pilot, and International Experience Canada.
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