Factory Jobs in Canada for International Workers (2026) – $17–$28 Hourly Wages & Hiring Info

Canada’s manufacturing and industrial sector continues to face persistent labour shortages, and factory jobs remain one of the most accessible employment pathways for international workers in 2026.

From food processing plants and packaging facilities to automotive parts factories and general manufacturing warehouses, employers across Canada are actively recruiting foreign workers to keep operations running.

Why Factory Jobs Are in High Demand in Canada (2026)

Canada’s manufacturing sector is a major contributor to the national economy, employing millions of workers across provinces like Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec, and Manitoba. However, several long-term factors have created ongoing labour gaps:

• Aging workforce and retirements
• Declining local interest in physically demanding roles
• Expansion of food processing, logistics, and light manufacturing
• Increased demand for domestic production and supply chain stability

What Are Factory Jobs in Canada?

Factory jobs refer to roles within manufacturing, production, processing, and assembly environments. These positions typically involve hands-on tasks and are common across multiple industries.

Common Factory Job Roles

• Production line worker
• Food processing worker
• Packaging and labeling staff
• Machine operator (entry-level)
• Quality control assistant
• Warehouse and factory helper
• Assembly line technician
• Meat, poultry, or seafood processing worker

Most of these jobs do not require a university degree, making them attractive for international workers seeking legal employment abroad.

Factory Job Wages in Canada (2026)

Average Hourly Pay

Factory workers in Canada typically earn between:

$17 – $28 CAD per hour, depending on:

• Province and city
• Industry (food processing vs manufacturing)
• Shift type (day, night, weekend)
• Overtime availability
• Experience and technical skills

Estimated Annual Earnings

With full-time hours (40–48 hours per week), factory workers can earn approximately:

• $35,000 – $58,000 CAD per year
• Overtime and night shifts can push earnings higher

These wages meet or exceed provincial minimum wage laws, which are strictly enforced in Canada.

Benefits of Factory Jobs in Canada for International Workers

Factory jobs are often overlooked, but they offer several practical advantages for foreign workers:

1. Legal Work Permits

Many factory employers hire through LMIA-approved pathways, allowing foreign workers to obtain valid Canadian work permits.

2. Consistent Income

Factory roles usually offer stable hours and predictable pay, which is ideal for budgeting and savings.

3. Overtime Opportunities

Peak seasons often come with paid overtime, increasing total earnings.

4. Pathway to Permanent Residence

Canadian work experience gained in factory jobs can support future immigration applications through:

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Employer-driven immigration streams

5. Entry-Level Accessibility

Most roles require basic education, physical fitness, and willingness to work shifts—not advanced degrees.

Work Permit Options for Factory Jobs in Canada

International workers cannot legally work in Canada without authorization. The most common pathway for factory jobs is:

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

Under this program:

• Canadian employers apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
• The LMIA confirms that no qualified Canadian worker is available
• Once approved, the employer can hire a foreign worker
• The worker applies for a work permit using the LMIA and job offer

This process is employer-driven, not worker-guaranteed.

LMIA-Approved Factory Jobs Explained

An LMIA-approved job means:

• The employer has government permission to hire a foreign worker
• Wages and working conditions meet Canadian standards
• The role is genuine and monitored

Eligibility Requirements for International Workers

While requirements vary by employer and province, most factory jobs require:

Basic Eligibility Criteria

• Valid passport
• Minimum secondary school education (often sufficient)
• Ability to communicate in basic English or French
• Physical ability to stand, lift, and perform repetitive tasks
• Clean criminal record
• Medical examination (for food-related jobs)

Experience Requirements

• Many roles accept no prior factory experience
• Previous manufacturing or warehouse work is an advantage but not mandatory

English Language Requirements

Most factory jobs do not require IELTS. However:

• You must understand basic instructions
• Safety training is conducted in English or French
• Interviews are often simple and practical

Basic conversational English significantly improves employability.

Provinces Hiring International Factory Workers

Factory jobs with work permit options are most common in:

Ontario

• Food processing
• Automotive manufacturing
• Packaging and distribution centers

Alberta

• Meat processing plants
• Industrial manufacturing
• Packaging facilities

British Columbia

• Seafood processing
• Food manufacturing
• Warehousing and logistics

Manitoba & Saskatchewan

• Agricultural processing
• Food packaging
• Manufacturing plants

These provinces often support employer-driven immigration streams.

Working Hours and Conditions

Factory jobs in Canada typically involve:

• 40–48 hours per week
• Day, evening, night, or rotating shifts
• Paid breaks and overtime
• Mandatory workplace safety training

Canadian labour laws strictly regulate:

• Minimum wage
• Overtime pay
• Rest periods
• Workplace safety

Employers face serious penalties for violations.

Accommodation and Living Costs

Some factory employers:

• Assist with finding accommodation
• Offer temporary housing support
• Provide transport to work sites

However, accommodation is not always free. Workers should budget for:

• Rent
• Utilities
• Transportation
• Food and personal expenses

Living costs vary widely by province and city.

How to Apply for Factory Jobs in Canada (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare a Canadian-Style CV

• Clear, simple format
• Emphasize physical work experience
• Highlight reliability and shift flexibility

Step 2: Search Legitimate Job Sources

Use reputable platforms such as:

• Government job banks
• Recognized recruitment agencies
• Company career pages

Step 3: Secure a Job Offer

• Interview may be virtual
• Employer explains duties and wages
• Job offer must match LMIA conditions

Step 4: Employer Obtains LMIA

• This step is handled by the employer
• Processing times vary

Step 5: Apply for Work Permit

• Submit documents online
• Complete biometrics and medical exams
• Await immigration decision

Can Factory Jobs Lead to Permanent Residence?

Yes, many international workers start in factory roles and later transition to permanent residence through:

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Employer-sponsored immigration streams
• Canadian work experience pathways

Consistency, good work performance, and legal compliance are key.

Safety and Worker Rights in Canada

International workers in Canada are protected by law. You have the right to:

• Fair wages
• Safe working conditions
• Paid overtime
• Refuse unsafe work
• Access labour authorities

Your immigration status does not remove your worker rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Are factory jobs in Canada available to foreigners in 2026?

Yes. Many employers actively recruit international workers due to labour shortages.

• Do factory jobs require IELTS?

Most do not, but basic English communication is necessary.

• Can I bring my family?

Some work permits allow family members to apply for open work permits or study permits, depending on eligibility.

• Are wages paid weekly or bi-weekly?

Most employers pay bi-weekly or weekly via bank transfer.

Conclusion

Factory jobs in Canada are not luxury roles, but they offer real, legal, and structured employment opportunities for international workers willing to work hard and follow proper procedures.

For many, these jobs serve as:

• A reliable income source
• A stepping stone into the Canadian labour market
• A potential pathway to long-term settlement

When approached with accurate information and realistic expectations, factory jobs can be a smart and practical option for working in Canada in 2026.