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Top 10 High-Paying Jobs in Canada That Don’t Require a Degree in 2025

In 2025, the job market in Canada continues to evolve, opening doors for skilled workers who don’t hold a traditional four-year university degree. From the rise of trade professions to booming opportunities in tech and logistics, several high-paying roles are accessible through vocational training, certifications, or hands-on experience.

Whether you’re a new immigrant, a career changer, or someone looking to enter the workforce without years of post-secondary education, this guide provides you with the top 10 high-paying jobs in Canada that don’t require a degree—along with salary expectations, job descriptions, and how to get started.

Why Consider Jobs Without a Degree?

Accessibility and Cost-Effectiveness

Higher education can be expensive and time-consuming. Jobs that don’t require a degree offer quicker entry into the workforce and lower education costs.

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In-Demand Skills

Many industries in Canada face skilled labor shortages. Trades, tech, and services need hands-on professionals more than ever.

Career Growth and Stability

With apprenticeships, certifications, and on-the-job training, many of these roles offer clear career advancement and long-term security.

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1. Web Developer

Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $100,000+

Web developers are in high demand across Canada, particularly in startups and small-to-medium tech companies. While some positions require a degree, many employers value portfolios and coding bootcamp certifications more.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Building and maintaining websites
  • Writing clean, efficient code
  • Collaborating with designers and content creators

How to Get Started:

  • Learn coding languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript
  • Join a bootcamp (e.g., Lighthouse Labs, BrainStation)
  • Build a portfolio on platforms like GitHub

2. Electrician

Average Salary: CAD $55,000 – $90,000+

Electricians are crucial in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. It’s a regulated trade in Canada, requiring apprenticeship and certification.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Installing and repairing electrical systems
  • Reading blueprints and technical diagrams

How to Get Started:

  • Complete a 4-5 year apprenticeship
  • Get certified by your province’s trade authority (e.g., Red Seal)

3. Plumber

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $85,000

Like electricians, plumbers are essential tradespeople who enjoy job stability and high earnings, especially in urban areas.

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Job Responsibilities:

  • Installing pipes and fixtures
  • Repairing water systems

How to Get Started:

  • Enroll in a vocational training program
  • Complete an apprenticeship and get certified

4. Truck Driver (Long Haul)

Average Salary: CAD $55,000 – $100,000+

Canada’s vast geography makes truck drivers vital to the economy. Long-haul drivers are especially in demand and can earn substantial incomes.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Transporting goods across provinces or borders
  • Maintaining logs and ensuring cargo safety

How to Get Started:

  • Obtain a Class 1 driver’s license
  • Complete a driving course and gain road experience

5. Real Estate Agent

Average Salary: CAD $45,000 – $150,000+

Success in real estate depends on sales skills and market knowledge more than a degree. Commissions can be very lucrative in hot markets.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Helping clients buy/sell property
  • Negotiating deals and managing listings

How to Get Started:

  • Complete a licensing program in your province
  • Join a real estate board (e.g., CREA)

6. Construction Manager (With Experience)

Average Salary: CAD $70,000 – $120,000

While entry-level roles start lower, experienced workers can advance to management without a formal degree.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Overseeing construction projects
  • Managing budgets, teams, and timelines

How to Get Started:

  • Begin in a trade (carpentry, plumbing)
  • Gain experience and consider certifications (e.g., Gold Seal)

7. Computer Support Specialist

Average Salary: CAD $45,000 – $80,000

Companies need tech support to keep their systems running. These jobs focus on problem-solving and customer service.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Diagnosing hardware/software issues
  • Supporting end-users in person or remotely

How to Get Started:

  • Take a short course in IT support
  • Earn certifications like CompTIA A+, Google IT Support

8. Firefighter

Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $100,000

Firefighting is a respected profession that doesn’t require a degree, though training is intensive.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Responding to emergencies
  • Operating fire suppression equipment

How to Get Started:

  • Enroll in a firefighter training academy
  • Pass physical, written, and medical tests
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9. Elevator Mechanic

Average Salary: CAD $75,000 – $110,000

One of the highest-paying trades in Canada, elevator mechanics install and maintain lift systems in buildings.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Servicing elevators, escalators
  • Ensuring compliance with safety codes

How to Get Started:

  • Enter an apprenticeship program
  • Get certified via provincial authority (often Red Seal)

10. Police Officer

Average Salary: CAD $55,000 – $105,000

Police officers require intensive training but not necessarily a university degree.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Enforcing laws and keeping communities safe
  • Investigating crimes and responding to emergencies

How to Get Started:

  • Meet basic education and fitness criteria
  • Attend police academy training in your province

Bonus Tips for Landing These Jobs

  • Network: Attend job fairs and connect with industry professionals
  • Get Certified: Many roles value certifications over degrees
  • Build a Portfolio: Especially for tech jobs, show what you can do
  • Be Open to Apprenticeships: Paid training leads to full-time roles
  • Stay Updated: Industry demands change—continue learning

25 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I get a high-paying job in Canada without a degree?
    • Yes, many industries value experience, skills, and certifications over traditional degrees.
  2. Which provinces offer the best opportunities for non-degree jobs?
    • Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia often have strong demand in trades and tech.
  3. Are these jobs open to immigrants?
    • Absolutely. Many immigrants fill roles in trades, transport, and tech.
  4. Do I need Canadian experience?
    • While helpful, many jobs accept foreign experience, especially if accompanied by local certification.
  5. How long does it take to become certified in a trade?
    • Most apprenticeships last 3-5 years.
  6. What’s the best trade to learn in 2025?
    • Elevator mechanics and electricians are both in high demand.
  7. Are tech bootcamps worth it in Canada?
    • Yes. Many employers recognize bootcamp graduates for entry-level tech roles.
  8. Do I need to speak French?
    • Not in most provinces, but it’s helpful in Quebec and parts of Ontario.
  9. Can women work in trades or trucking?
    • Definitely. There are increasing opportunities and support for women in non-traditional roles.
  10. What are the age requirements for apprenticeships?
    • Typically, 18+, but some start at 16 with high school programs.
  11. Is plumbing a good career in Canada?
    • Yes. It offers strong wages, job stability, and low unemployment.
  12. Can I become a firefighter without a degree?
    • Yes, but you must complete specialized training and pass rigorous assessments.
  13. How much can a truck driver earn per year?
    • Experienced long-haul drivers can earn over CAD $100,000 annually.
  14. Do I need a license to be a real estate agent?
    • Yes, each province has specific licensing requirements.
  15. Is coding hard to learn for beginners?
    • Not necessarily. With consistent practice and good resources, anyone can learn.
  16. Can I work while completing an apprenticeship?
    • Yes, apprenticeships are typically paid positions.
  17. How do I find apprenticeship opportunities in Canada?
    • Visit provincial trade websites, job boards, or contact unions and employers directly.
  18. What are the working hours like for these jobs?
    • Varies by role—some are 9-5, others are shift-based or involve travel.
  19. Are these jobs physically demanding?
    • Many trades and emergency services roles require physical fitness.
  20. Do support roles in tech offer remote work?
    • Yes, many IT and support roles offer remote or hybrid options.
  21. Can I switch careers into these fields later in life?
    • Yes. Many people transition into trades, real estate, and tech in their 30s or 40s.
  22. Do I need to join a union?
    • Some trades and roles are unionized, offering benefits and protection.
  23. Are there government programs to help with training?
    • Yes. Canada offers grants and subsidies for trade training and upskilling.
  24. Will AI take over these jobs?
    • Most of these roles involve hands-on work that is hard to automate.
  25. Where can I learn more or apply?
    • Visit job sites like Indeed, Workopolis, and government portals like Job Bank Canada.
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