Factory worker jobs in Canada – A Detailed Guide

Factory worker jobs in Canada offer numerous opportunities across various industries, including manufacturing, automotive, food processing, textiles, electronics, and more. As Canada’s manufacturing sector continues to thrive, especially in provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta, factory worker positions remain in high demand. For immigrants, these jobs provide a pathway to stable employment and career growth.

If you’re considering factory work in Canada in 2026, here’s everything you need to know, from the types of factory worker jobs available to the skills required, salary expectations, and immigration pathways.

Types of Factory Worker Jobs in Canada

Factory work encompasses a wide range of roles, each requiring different skills and levels of experience. Some common factory worker jobs in Canada include:

1. General Labourer

General labourers are responsible for various physical tasks in the factory, including assembling products, loading/unloading materials, packaging, and ensuring the production line runs smoothly. These roles typically don’t require advanced technical skills but may require physical stamina and the ability to follow safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in production processes.
• Assemble parts or products.
• Handle packaging and labeling.
• Operate basic machinery (training provided).
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness in the factory.

2. Machine Operator

Machine operators are responsible for operating specific machinery used in the manufacturing process. Depending on the industry, machine operators may work with automated production lines, CNC machines, or heavy industrial equipment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate machinery.
• Monitor the production process for quality and efficiency.
• Perform routine maintenance on equipment.
• Troubleshoot minor issues and adjust settings.
• Ensure that production meets quality standards.

3. Production Line Worker

Production line workers are involved in the assembly and manufacturing process, working as part of a team to produce a high volume of products. These jobs are common in industries like food processing, automotive, and electronics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assemble products on the production line.
• Inspect products for defects or quality issues.
• Pack finished products for shipment.
• Operate machines and conveyor belts.
• Adhere to safety standards and factory procedures.

4. Forklift Operator

Forklift operators are responsible for transporting materials within the factory or warehouse. They must ensure that raw materials and finished products are moved efficiently and safely.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment.
• Move pallets of goods around the factory.
• Load and unload shipments.
• Ensure the safe handling of materials.
• Maintain inventory and report any discrepancies.

5. Quality Control Inspector

Quality control inspectors are responsible for monitoring and ensuring the quality of the products being manufactured. They test raw materials, in-process items, and finished products to meet industry standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspect products for defects.
• Perform testing to ensure products meet specifications.
• Record data and report findings.
• Ensure that manufacturing processes follow quality standards.
• Work closely with production teams to resolve quality issues.

6. Food Processing Worker

Food processing workers are involved in the production of food items, ensuring they are prepared, packaged, and stored according to health and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and process food items.
• Operate food production machinery.
• Ensure proper packaging and labeling.
• Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Maintain cleanliness in food preparation areas.

Skills and Qualifications for Factory Worker Jobs

The qualifications required for factory worker jobs in Canada vary depending on the role and the industry. However, some general skills and qualifications are commonly sought after:

1. Basic Education Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent: Most factory jobs in Canada require at least a high school diploma. Some positions may accept equivalent certifications or experience.
• Post-secondary education (optional): In some cases, employers may prefer candidates with certifications in manufacturing, machine operation, or technical fields.

2. Experience

• Entry-level experience: Many factory jobs don’t require extensive prior experience, particularly for general labourer or production line roles. On-the-job training is typically provided.
• Experience in a specific industry: If you’re applying for specialized roles (e.g., machine operator, forklift driver), experience with specific equipment or production processes is a plus.

3. Technical Skills

• Machine operation: For machine operators and production workers, experience or certification in operating industrial machinery is essential.
• Forklift operation: A forklift operator certification is often required to work with heavy lifting equipment in warehouses or factories.
• Safety procedures: Understanding safety protocols, such as working with hazardous materials or maintaining a clean workspace, is critical in the manufacturing environment.

4. Soft Skills

• Attention to detail: Workers must focus on precision and quality, especially in industries where product defects can lead to customer dissatisfaction or safety concerns.
• Physical stamina: Many factory jobs require workers to stand for long periods, lift heavy items, or work in challenging conditions.
• Teamwork: Collaboration with coworkers and supervisors is essential for maintaining a smooth workflow and meeting production targets.
• Communication skills: Good communication is needed to report issues, follow instructions, and work effectively in teams.

Salary Expectations for Factory Workers in Canada

Salaries for factory workers in Canada can vary based on location, experience, and the specific industry. Below are some average salary ranges for common factory roles:

• General Labourer: $15 – $22 per hour
• Machine Operator: $18 – $25 per hour
• Production Line Worker: $16 – $24 per hour
• Forklift Operator: $17 – $25 per hour
• Quality Control Inspector: $20 – $30 per hour
• Food Processing Worker: $14 – $20 per hour

Salaries may also differ by province. For instance, factory workers in Ontario, particularly in cities like Toronto and Hamilton, can expect slightly higher wages due to the higher cost of living and the concentration of manufacturing industries in the region.

Where to Find Factory Worker Jobs in Canada

There are several resources for finding factory worker jobs across Canada:

1. Job Boards and Websites

• Job Bank (Canada): The official government website for job postings in Canada, including factory worker roles.
• Indeed Canada: A popular job search engine that lists factory jobs in various industries.
• Glassdoor Canada: Provides job listings as well as company reviews to help you understand the work environment.
• Monster Canada: Another major job portal where you can search for factory worker positions.
• Workopolis: Lists various manufacturing and factory jobs across Canada.

2. Provincial Resources

• Ontario Job Opportunities: Ontario has a high demand for factory workers, especially in manufacturing hubs like Toronto, Hamilton, and Windsor.
• Alberta Jobs: Alberta offers factory positions in the oil and gas industry, as well as in food processing and other manufacturing sectors.
• Quebec Manufacturing Jobs: Quebec has a robust manufacturing industry, with many positions available in Montreal, Quebec City, and surrounding areas.

3. Company Websites

Many large manufacturing companies in Canada post job openings on their own websites. If you have a particular company in mind (e.g., Toyota, Maple Leaf Foods, Magna International, Bombardier), visiting their careers page may lead to direct job opportunities.

Immigration Pathways for Factory Workers

If you’re an immigrant looking to work as a factory worker in Canada, there are several immigration programs that can help you obtain a work permit or permanent residency.

1. Temporary Work Permit

You can apply for a temporary work permit if you’ve secured a job offer from a Canadian employer. Many factory worker positions qualify for this type of permit. A job offer must typically be supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which shows that the employer needs to hire a foreign worker because no qualified Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available.

2. Express Entry System

The Express Entry system is designed for skilled workers. While factory work may not always qualify as skilled work, certain positions may be eligible if they meet specific criteria under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class.

3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Some provinces have specific immigration pathways for workers in high-demand industries, including manufacturing. If you plan to work in a province with a shortage of factory workers, you may be able to apply for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which fast-tracks your immigration process.

4. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

For those looking to work in rural or northern Canada, the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) may be an option. This pilot program is designed to help bring skilled workers to smaller communities, including factory worker positions in remote areas.

Factory worker jobs in Canada offer great opportunities, especially in a country with a strong and diverse manufacturing sector. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, Canada’s demand for factory workers ensures that you’ll find various positions in industries like automotive, food processing, textiles, and electronics.

For immigrants, Canada offers multiple pathways to employment through work permits and immigration programs, ensuring that factory work remains a viable and rewarding career option. By exploring the job boards, learning about the skills required, and understanding the salary expectations, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on a successful factory career in Canada in 2026.