Top Driver Jobs in Canada in 2025

The transportation sector in Canada is one of the largest and most vital industries, with a constant demand for skilled drivers across the country. Whether you’re looking for local, regional, or long-distance driving jobs, Canada offers a variety of roles that cater to different experience levels and preferences. From trucking to delivery services and even ride-sharing, driver jobs in Canada present lucrative opportunities, particularly as the demand for drivers continues to rise in 2025.

If you’re considering a driving career in Canada, this guide will walk you through some of the top driver jobs available, including salary expectations, skills required, and how to find the right opportunities.

1. Truck Driver (Long-Haul and Short-Haul)

Truck driving remains one of the most in-demand driver jobs in Canada, especially with the growth of e-commerce and the need for goods to be transported across provinces and borders. Long-haul truck drivers (also known as over-the-road drivers) typically travel across Canada and sometimes to the U.S., while short-haul drivers focus on local or regional routes.

Responsibilities:

• Transport goods between provinces or across international borders.
• Ensure that cargo is loaded and unloaded safely.
• Follow road safety and traffic regulations.
• Complete delivery paperwork and logs.
• Perform routine vehicle inspections and maintenance.

Skills & Requirements:

• Valid Class 1 or Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL).
• Strong understanding of traffic laws and road safety.
• Physical fitness for long hours on the road.
• Ability to operate large trucks and cargo equipment.

Salary Expectations:

• Long-Haul Truck Drivers: $50,000 – $75,000 per year.
• Short-Haul Truck Drivers: $40,000 – $55,000 per year.

Job Outlook:

Canada’s truck driving industry is experiencing significant growth due to increased trade, e-commerce, and the expansion of major highways. The demand for truck drivers is expected to remain strong, especially in provinces like Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia.

2. Delivery Driver (Courier, Package, or Food Delivery)

The rise of online shopping and food delivery services has led to an explosion in demand for delivery drivers in Canada. Whether it’s delivering packages for companies like Canada Post or UPS, or food deliveries for services like SkipTheDishes, DoorDash, and Uber Eats, there are numerous opportunities available.

Responsibilities:

• Pick up and deliver packages or food items to customers.
• Ensure timely deliveries and manage your route efficiently.
• Provide excellent customer service, including resolving any issues.
• Maintain delivery logs and adhere to safety protocols.

Skills & Requirements:

• Valid Class 5 driver’s license (standard driver’s license).
• Good knowledge of local routes and traffic conditions.
• Customer service skills.
• Ability to manage time and work independently.

Salary Expectations:

• Food Delivery Drivers: $15 – $25 per hour (depending on tips and delivery volume).
• Package Delivery Drivers: $18 – $30 per hour.

Job Outlook:

With the increasing demand for online shopping and home delivery services, delivery driver jobs are expected to grow in the coming years. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have some of the highest demands for delivery drivers.

3. Bus Driver (Public Transit and Charter Services)

Public transportation is a crucial part of Canadian infrastructure, with bus drivers needed to operate city transit systems, school buses, and charter buses. As population growth in urban areas continues, demand for bus drivers remains steady.

Responsibilities:

• Operate city buses, school buses, or charter buses.
• Ensure the safety and comfort of passengers.
• Follow scheduled routes and ensure timely arrivals.
• Collect fares or tickets, if necessary.
• Maintain vehicle cleanliness and perform basic vehicle checks.

Skills & Requirements:

• Class 2 or 4 driver’s license (specific to bus driving).
• Knowledge of road safety and passenger handling.
• Good communication and customer service skills.
• Physical stamina and patience.

Salary Expectations:

• Public Transit Bus Driver: $40,000 – $60,000 per year.
• School Bus Driver: $30,000 – $45,000 per year.
• Charter Bus Driver: $40,000 – $55,000 per year.

Job Outlook:

The demand for bus drivers in Canada remains strong, particularly in metropolitan areas. Aging populations in some provinces, combined with the need for reliable public transportation, will keep the demand high.

4. Heavy Equipment Operator (Construction & Mining)

Heavy equipment operators are essential for large-scale construction projects, as well as for mining operations. In Canada, with major infrastructure projects underway, such as highway expansions and mining developments, there is always a demand for skilled drivers who can operate bulldozers, cranes, and excavators.

Responsibilities:

• Operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and backhoes.
• Load and unload materials for construction or mining projects.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections of equipment.
• Ensure worksite safety for yourself and others.

Skills & Requirements:

• Class 7 or 9 driver’s license, depending on the equipment.
• Certification in operating specific heavy machinery (e.g., crane, excavator).
• Strong understanding of safety protocols and machinery operation.

Salary Expectations:

• Heavy Equipment Operator: $50,000 – $75,000 per year.
• Excavator or Crane Operator: $60,000 – $80,000 per year.

Job Outlook:

The construction and mining industries in Canada are experiencing significant growth, especially in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. Skilled operators are in high demand, particularly in remote or rural areas.

5. Taxi Driver and Ride-Sharing Driver

Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have become a prominent part of the transportation industry in Canada. Taxi drivers, while somewhat less common today, still operate in many cities, particularly in areas where public transit is less accessible.

Responsibilities:

• Pick up passengers from designated locations and drop them off at their destinations.
• Maintain a clean and safe vehicle.
• Navigate through traffic and provide timely service.
• Follow local regulations and laws for transportation services.

Skills & Requirements:

• Valid Class 5 driver’s license.
• Knowledge of local geography and traffic patterns.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours.

Salary Expectations:

• Ride-Sharing Drivers: $14 – $25 per hour (depends on the number of rides, tips, and location).
• Taxi Drivers: $30,000 – $50,000 per year (variable based on hours worked and tips).

Job Outlook:

As ride-sharing services continue to grow, especially in urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, demand for taxi and ride-sharing drivers will remain steady. With a large number of new drivers entering the industry each year, competition can be high, but flexibility and tips help make this a viable job for many.

6. Forklift Driver (Warehouse and Distribution)

Forklift drivers play a crucial role in managing warehouse operations and distribution centers. This position is common in manufacturing, retail, and logistics sectors. The need for experienced forklift operators continues to grow as companies expand their distribution capabilities, particularly with the rise in e-commerce.

Responsibilities:

• Operate forklifts to move materials and products within a warehouse or distribution center.
• Load and unload goods from trucks and shelves.
• Stack and organize inventory.
• Ensure safety standards are met.

Skills & Requirements:

• Forklift operator certification (mandatory for most employers).
• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment.
• Good organizational and time-management skills.
• Awareness of warehouse safety regulations.

Salary Expectations:

• Forklift Driver: $18 – $25 per hour.

Job Outlook:

With the expansion of retail, distribution, and e-commerce businesses, demand for forklift drivers is expected to remain high in 2025. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary are expected to see continuous growth in this sector.

How to Find Driver Jobs in Canada in 2025

1. Job Search Websites: Websites like Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor, and Job Bank often have listings for various driver roles across Canada.
2. Company Websites: Check out the career pages of transportation companies such as UPS, Canada Post, FedEx, and Uber for the latest driver job postings.
3. Recruitment Agencies: Many recruitment agencies specialize in transportation and logistics jobs. Agencies like Randstad and Kelly Services can help you find driver positions in different industries.
4. Networking: Attend industry events, job fairs, and online forums related to the transportation industry to expand your network and increase your chances of finding employment.

Driver jobs in Canada offer a wide range of opportunities across several industries, from long-haul trucking to delivery services and heavy equipment operation. With competitive salaries, job security, and a high demand for skilled drivers, pursuing a career as a driver in Canada can be a rewarding choice in 2025.

Whether you’re looking to work locally or across the country, Canada’s transportation industry provides flexible and lucrative career options for both experienced professionals and those just entering the field.