ADMINCanada is known for its vibrant event industry, hosting everything from international conferences and cultural festivals to sports events and trade shows. Behind the scenes, a crucial team ensures these events run smoothly—the event set-up crew. For job seekers interested in relocating to Canada, these roles often come with visa sponsorship, making them a fantastic opportunity for those seeking steady work and the chance to start a new life in a welcoming country.
This guide will explore 10 event set-up crew jobs in Canada offering visa sponsorship in 2024. You’ll learn about the duties, hourly pay (starting at $16/hour), requirements, and how to apply effectively for these roles.
Why Event Set-Up Crew Jobs Are In-Demand in Canada
Canada’s events industry contributes over $35 billion annually to the economy, according to Statistics Canada. As the country continues to host large-scale events post-pandemic, there’s a growing demand for skilled workers to help with event logistics. In particular, event set-up crew roles are critical, involving tasks like assembling stages, setting up sound and lighting systems, arranging furniture, and dismantling equipment after the event.
Because of labor shortages in some provinces, many Canadian employers are now offering visa sponsorship to attract international talent, particularly in regions with booming event calendars like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
Eligibility for Event Set-Up Crew Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
To qualify for event set-up crew roles in Canada, most employers look for the following:
- Physical Fitness: These roles often involve heavy lifting and long hours on your feet.
- Basic English Skills: Communication is key, especially when working with team members.
- Previous Experience: While not always required, experience in logistics, event planning, or construction is a plus.
- Willingness to Relocate: Many visa-sponsored roles are tied to specific regions or provinces.
- Adaptability: The ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment is essential.
1. Event Set-Up Crew for Conference Venues
Conference centers across Canada frequently hire event set-up crews to handle large-scale corporate gatherings, product launches, and trade expos.
- Hourly Wage: $16–$20/hour
- Locations: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary
- Responsibilities: Assembling booths, arranging seating, and installing AV equipment.
- Visa Sponsorship: Many employers partner with Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program to fill these roles.
Why Consider It?
Conference venues often offer consistent work year-round, making this an excellent option for job stability.
2. Stage and Lighting Technician Assistant
For music festivals, theater productions, and entertainment events, stage and lighting set-up crews are indispensable.
- Hourly Wage: $18–$25/hour
- Locations: Montreal, Ottawa, Edmonton
- Responsibilities: Assisting with rigging lights, setting up sound systems, and installing stage props.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered for skilled positions, especially for candidates with relevant experience.
3. Sports Event Crew
Major sports events like hockey games, soccer matches, and marathons require set-up teams to prepare venues.
- Hourly Wage: $16–$22/hour
- Locations: Toronto, Vancouver, Winnipeg
- Responsibilities: Installing bleachers, setting up sponsor booths, and handling crowd control equipment.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for candidates applying through provincial nominee programs.
Insider Tip:
Sports event roles often come with free access to games and additional perks like team merchandise.
4. Festival and Fair Crew
Canada is famous for its festivals, from the Calgary Stampede to the Vancouver International Film Festival. These events rely on temporary set-up crews to create memorable experiences.
- Hourly Wage: $16–$20/hour
- Locations: Calgary, Vancouver, Quebec City
- Responsibilities: Erecting tents, arranging exhibits, and managing on-site logistics.
- Visa Sponsorship: Frequently available for seasonal roles, especially for large festivals.
5. Corporate Event Set-Up Crew
Corporate events like award ceremonies, product launches, and executive meetings require detail-oriented set-up crews.
- Hourly Wage: $16–$21/hour
- Locations: Toronto, Ottawa, Halifax
- Responsibilities: Setting up conference rooms, arranging catering spaces, and coordinating AV equipment.
- Visa Sponsorship: Companies with large corporate accounts often sponsor international workers to fill these positions.
6. Wedding and Private Event Set-Up
Wedding venues and private event spaces often need crews to handle decorations, seating arrangements, and staging for ceremonies and receptions.
- Hourly Wage: $16–$20/hour
- Locations: Toronto, Vancouver, Whistler
- Responsibilities: Installing lighting, arranging furniture, and dismantling setups after events.
- Visa Sponsorship: Some high-end venues offer sponsorship to fill labor gaps during peak wedding seasons.
7. Trade Show Installation Team
Trade shows and exhibitions are logistical masterpieces requiring experienced set-up crews to assemble booths and manage layouts.
- Hourly Wage: $17–$22/hour
- Locations: Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver
- Responsibilities: Assembling exhibition stands, laying out signage, and coordinating vendor areas.
- Visa Sponsorship: Frequently offered by companies involved in large-scale trade events.
8. Event Set-Up Crew for Film and TV Productions
Canada’s booming film industry often hires set-up crews for location shoots and award shows.
- Hourly Wage: $18–$25/hour
- Locations: Vancouver, Toronto, Halifax
- Responsibilities: Constructing temporary sets, setting up lighting rigs, and managing on-site logistics.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available through programs targeting skilled workers for the entertainment sector.
9. University and College Event Staff
Universities often host conferences, graduations, and cultural events requiring set-up crews.
- Hourly Wage: $16–$18/hour
- Locations: Toronto, Calgary, Montreal
- Responsibilities: Arranging seating, installing banners, and setting up sound systems.
- Visa Sponsorship: Some universities participate in federal hiring programs that include sponsorship.
10. Non-Profit and Charity Event Set-Up
Charity events and fundraisers need reliable set-up teams to prepare for auctions, galas, and benefit runs.
- Hourly Wage: $16–$19/hour
- Locations: Ottawa, Vancouver, Toronto
- Responsibilities: Setting up stages, organizing tables, and managing event logistics.
- Visa Sponsorship: Frequently available for full-time positions.
How to Secure an Event Set-Up Crew Job in Canada
1. Research Employers
Start by identifying companies or venues that regularly hire set-up crews. Popular job boards like Indeed, Workopolis, and Glassdoor often feature listings for these roles.
2. Update Your Resume
Highlight any relevant experience, such as working in construction, logistics, or customer service. Include soft skills like teamwork and problem-solving.
3. Leverage Networking
Reach out to recruitment agencies specializing in visa-sponsored roles. Employers often rely on these agencies to find international candidates.
4. Apply Through Official Immigration Programs
Use programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to access jobs with visa sponsorship.
Conclusion
Event set-up crew jobs in Canada are more than just a paycheck—they offer a stepping stone to a fulfilling career and the opportunity to live in a dynamic, multicultural country. With roles ranging from festival support to corporate event logistics, there’s something for everyone in this thriving industry.
If you’re physically fit, adaptable, and eager to explore a new path in 2024, these opportunities are waiting for you. Take the first step by researching potential employers, updating your resume, and leveraging Canada’s immigration programs to secure your dream role.
For more information, consult trusted resources like the Government of Canada’s immigration website, provincial nominee programs, or specialized job boards for visa-sponsored positions.
Sources:
- Statistics Canada – Event Industry Overview
- Government of Canada – Temporary Foreign Worker Program
- Indeed.ca – Event Set-Up Crew Job Listings
- Glassdoor – Employee Reviews of Event Roles
- Provincial Immigration Portals – Opportunities for Skilled Workers
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