Canada is one of the few countries where you can build a successful career and earn a high income even without a university degree. Many Nigerians who migrate to Canada secure well-paying jobs through skill, certification, experience, and on-the-job training.
From trucking to tech support, construction, and healthcare support roles, there are plenty of opportunities open to newcomers.
This guide outlines 10 high-paying jobs in Canada you can get without a degree, what each role involves, the average salary, and how to qualify for them.
1. Truck Driver
Truck driving is one of the most in-demand and highest-paying jobs in Canada without a degree. Provinces like Alberta, Ontario, and Manitoba are always hiring.
What You Do
- Transport goods across cities and provinces
- Inspect and maintain your truck
- Follow safety regulations
Average Salary
₦20 million – ₦35 million per year (CAD $50,000 – $80,000)
Requirements
- Valid Canadian driver’s licence (Class 1 or AZ)
- Good physical health
- Clean driving record
2. Construction Worker
Construction workers help build roads, bridges, houses, and commercial structures. You can start with no degree and grow into a specialized role.
What You Do
- Operate tools and equipment
- Carry out physical labor
- Assist skilled workers
Average Salary
₦18 million – ₦30 million per year (CAD $45,000 – $70,000)
Requirements
- Physical strength
- Safety training (you can learn on the job)
- Willingness to work outdoors
3. Warehouse Associate / Forklift Operator
Warehouses across Canada need workers for packaging, lifting, stocking, and operating forklifts.
What You Do
- Load and unload items
- Arrange inventory
- Operate forklifts (with certification)
Average Salary
₦15 million – ₦28 million per year (CAD $38,000 – $65,000)
Requirements
- Good physical condition
- Basic training
- Forklift certification (optional but increases pay)
4. Caregiver / Support Worker
Caregivers are needed to assist seniors, children, and people with disabilities. This job can also lead to permanent residency through caregiver immigration programs.
What You Do
- Provide personal care
- Prepare meals
- Assist with mobility and daily living
Average Salary
₦14 million – ₦26 million per year (CAD $35,000 – $60,000)
Requirements
- Compassion
- Basic training in caregiving
- Good communication skills
5. Security Officer
Security officers protect properties, monitor activities, and maintain safety in malls, companies, and residential areas.
What You Do
- Patrol locations
- Supervise entry points
- Monitor CCTV cameras
Average Salary
₦13 million – ₦25 million per year (CAD $33,000 – $58,000)
Requirements
- Security licence (training available in Canada)
- Good communication
- Alertness
6. Sales Representative
Sales reps are needed in retail stores, car dealerships, software companies, and telecoms. Some earn even more through commissions.
What You Do
- Promote products
- Attend to customers
- Close sales
Average Salary
₦18 million – ₦32 million per year (CAD $45,000 – $75,000)
Requirements
- Strong communication skills
- Customer service skills
- Ability to persuade and negotiate
7. Delivery Driver (Amazon, Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes)
Delivery drivers earn good money in big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.
What You Do
- Pick up and deliver packages or food
- Follow delivery routes
- Provide excellent customer service
Average Salary
₦14 million – ₦24 million per year (CAD $35,000 – $55,000)
Requirements
- Valid driver’s licence
- GPS navigation skills
- Reliable car or bike (depending on the job)
8. Customer Service Representative
Many Nigerian immigrants start with customer service jobs because they require good communication rather than a degree.
What You Do
- Answer calls and emails
- Assist customers with issues
- Provide product information
Average Salary
₦14 million – ₦25 million per year (CAD $35,000 – $60,000)
Requirements
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Basic computer literacy
9. Cleaner / Housekeeper
Cleaning jobs are popular among newcomers and still offer excellent pay, especially in hospitals, hotels, and corporate offices.
What You Do
- Clean rooms and facilities
- Maintain hygiene standards
- Organize supplies
Average Salary
₦12 million – ₦20 million per year (CAD $30,000 – $50,000)
Requirements
- Attention to detail
- Ability to follow schedules
- Good physical condition
10. Heavy Equipment Operator
These workers operate machines like bulldozers, cranes, and excavators. It’s one of the highest-paying no-degree jobs.
What You Do
- Operate heavy machinery
- Maintain equipment
- Assist construction teams
Average Salary
₦22 million – ₦40 million per year (CAD $55,000 – $95,000)
Requirements
- Training (provided in Canada)
- Excellent coordination
- Safety awareness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get a job in Canada without a degree?
Yes. Many high-paying jobs in Canada value skills, training, and experience more than academic qualifications.
2. What is the highest-paying job in Canada without a degree?
Truck driving, heavy equipment operation, and construction roles are among the highest-paying options.
3. Can I migrate to Canada with these jobs?
Yes. Programs like the Express Entry, PNP, AIP, and caregiver pathways allow skilled workers to immigrate.
4. Do I need IELTS for these jobs?
IELTS is required if you are applying through immigration pathways like Express Entry or PNP, but not for job applications alone.
5. How can I improve my chances of getting a job in Canada?
Get certifications, prepare a Canadian-style CV, and apply to employers in high-demand industries.