Top 10 Highest Paying Trade Jobs in Canada: Earn Big Without a Degree
If you’re looking for a stable, rewarding career with high earning potential—but without spending years in university—you’re in luck. Skilled trades are among the highest paying jobs in Canada and can be entered through apprenticeships, vocational programs, or on-the-job training.
Whether you’re starting fresh or considering a career switch, this guide breaks down the highest paying trade jobs, including options that don’t require a college degree, and even trade jobs that pay $100k or more.
Why Choose a Trade Career?
Skilled trade careers offer a number of benefits:
- High wages without the need for a university education
- Hands-on, practical work that’s in demand across the country
- Shorter training timelines, often with paid apprenticeships
- Strong job security and growth in nearly every province
Many of the most lucrative trade jobs are Red Seal certified, meaning they’re recognized nationally and open up more opportunities to work across Canada.
Top 10 Highest Paying Trade Jobs in Canada
Here are some of the best paying skilled trade jobs based on national wage data, industry trends, and long-term demand.
1. Powerline Technician
Certification Required: Apprenticeship + Trade Certification
What They Do: Install, repair, and maintain electrical power systems—often at great heights. This trade is both high-paying and physically demanding.
2. Elevator Mechanic
Certification Required: Red Seal Certification available
What They Do: Install and maintain elevators, escalators, and lift systems. High demand in urban areas and large commercial developments.
3. Industrial Electrician
Certification Required: Red Seal Certified Trade
What They Do: Maintain and repair complex electrical systems in industrial or factory settings. Highly skilled and well-compensated.
4. HVAC Technician (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning)
Certification Required: Trade license (varies by province)
What They Do: Install and maintain residential and commercial climate systems. High demand due to seasonal needs and growing construction.
5. Welder (Specialized / Industrial)
Certification Required: Apprenticeship + Red Seal optional
What They Do: Use heat and tools to join metal components. Pipeline welders and underwater welders can exceed $100k with experience.
6. Millwright (Industrial Mechanic)
Certification Required: Red Seal Certified Trade
What They Do: Install and maintain industrial machinery. Essential to manufacturing, mining, and energy industries.
7. Construction Manager (With Trade Background)
Pathway: Trade experience + additional project management training
What They Do: Oversee large-scale construction projects. Many begin as skilled tradespeople and grow into high-paying leadership roles.
8. Heavy-Duty Equipment Technician
Certification Required: Apprenticeship + Certification
What They Do: Service and repair large machinery used in construction, forestry, and mining.
9. Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)
Certification Required: Licensed AME through Transport Canada
What They Do: Inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. High responsibility = high salary.
10. Plumber (Master or Industrial)
Certification Required: Red Seal Certification
What They Do: Install and repair water and gas systems. Commercial and industrial plumbers can earn well into six figures.
Highest Paying Trade Jobs Without a Degree
Many people are surprised to learn that you can land a $100k+ salary without going to university. These are the highest paying trade jobs without a degree, making them perfect for career starters or those looking to avoid student loans.
- Powerline Technician
- Elevator Mechanic
- Welder (Pipeline or Rig)
- Industrial Electrician
- Millwright
- Heavy Equipment Technician
- HVAC Technician
All these roles require technical training or apprenticeship, but not a traditional 4-year degree.
Trade Jobs That Pay $100K+
If you’re aiming for six figures, these trade jobs that pay $100k are your best bet. While not all of them start at that level, with experience and the right specialization, you can absolutely earn $100,000 or more:
- Powerline Technician
- Elevator Mechanic
- Senior Electrician or Electrical Foreman
- Pipeline Welder
- Industrial Millwright
- Construction Site Supervisor
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
- Master Plumber or Plumbing Contractor
Pro tip: Gaining Red Seal certification, starting your own business, or moving into supervisory roles can dramatically increase your income.
Final Thoughts: Trades Pay Off
Skilled trades are no longer the “second option”—they’re often the best option for people who want to work with their hands, make a difference, and earn a great living without a university degree.
From most lucrative trade jobs to trade jobs that pay $100k, the opportunities are real, accessible, and growing fast.
Ready to get started?
Visit TradeJobs.ca – Canada’s premier job board for skilled trades. Discover thousands of opportunities in construction, energy, transportation, and more.