Trade careers are thriving across the country, offering financial stability, job security, and in many cases, six-figure salaries. As the demand for skilled workers surges in both traditional and emerging industries, it’s no surprise that many Canadians are turning to the trades. Whether you’re looking for the highest paying trades in Canada, the best trade jobs in Canada for long-term growth, or the most in-demand trade jobs in Canada to future-proof your career, this guide covers the top options leading the way in 2025.

1. Powerline Technician

Powerline technicians are currently one of the highest-paying trades in Canada, earning up to $120,000 annually, especially in rural or remote areas. They install, repair, and maintain high‑voltage electrical systems that power communities across the country. With intense demand, especially in provinces with aging infrastructure and renewable energy expansions, this trade offers both stability and excellent compensation. Modern apprentices also benefit from safety training and technological tools such as drones and GIS mapping systems.

• Annual earnings can reach $85,000–$120,000 in high‑need areas
  
  
• Ranked among the most in‑demand trade jobs in Canada, especially in remote regions
  

2. Elevator Mechanic

Elevator mechanics rank among the highest-paying trades in Canada, with earnings frequently exceeding $115,000 a year in unionized roles. These specialists assemble, install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, and moving walkways in residential and commercial buildings nationwide. The job demands technical precision, certification, and often travel between job sites. With urban density on the rise, this trade remains in high demand and provides long-term job security.

• High earnings with union benefits and travel incentives
  
  
• Consistently listed as one of the best trade jobs in Canada for pay and stability
  

3. Industrial Electrician

Industrial electricians are in the top tier of best trade jobs in Canada, earning between $88,000 and $110,000+, depending on experience and region. These skilled technicians specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in factories, power plants, and large-scale commercial setups. Demand for industrial electricians is booming due to manufacturing growth and ongoing maintenance needs. Strong problem-solving skills and certifications like Red Seal can significantly boost earning potential.

• Earnings often surpass $100,000 with advanced certifications
  
  
• Highly rated among most in-demand trade jobs in Canada for industrial sectors
  

4. Millwright

Millwrights are critical to mechanical and industrial operations, often earning $65,000 to $110,000 annually. They install, level, dismantle, manage, and repair industrial machinery in manufacturing plants and other large facilities. With automation increasing and factories expanding, millwrights are emerging as some of the most in-demand trade jobs in Canada. Specialized roles—such as turbine or robotics millwrights—can push earnings even higher.

• Can earn over $100,000 in specialized industrial roles
  
  
• Growing demand in manufacturing makes it a top best trade job in Canada
  

5. Plumber/Steamfitter

Plumbers and steamfitters consistently rank among the highest-paying trade jobs in Canada due to strong demand and earning potential of $60,000–100,000+, especially for Red Seal-certified professionals. They install and maintain piping for water, heating, gas, and sewage systems in both residential and commercial properties. With building codes tightening and population centers growing, certified tradespeople are in high demand across Canada.

• Red Seal plumbers can earn up to $100,000 or more
  
  
• Recognized as one of the highest-paying trades in Canada for certification holders
  
  

6. HVAC Technician

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians in Canada make $60,000–100,000 annually, depending on experience and specialties like refrigeration. They install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems in residential and commercial buildings. With growing awareness of energy efficiency, certified HVAC techs skilled in green systems are among the most in-demand trade jobs in Canada today.

• Earnings reach up to $100,000 with certifications and green tech skills
  
  
• Identified as one of the best trade jobs in Canada for career growth
  

7. Heavy Equipment Technician

Heavy equipment technicians can make $55,000 to $95,000 annually, working on mining, agriculture, and construction vehicles. These skilled professionals are increasingly sought after across Canada’s resource-based industries and infrastructure projects. Their ability to troubleshoot mechanical systems and hydraulics makes them one of the most in-demand trade jobs in Canada, particularly in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

• Earns $55,000–95,000, with premiums in remote or seasonal roles
  
  
• Ranked high among highest paying trades in Canada in resource sectors
  

8. Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)

Licensed AMEs in Canada can earn between $85,000 and $120,000 annually, making it one of the best trade jobs in Canada for aviation enthusiasts. These specialists inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft, requiring high technical skill and regulatory compliance. With pilot shortages boosting maintenance demands and FlightCentres expanding internationally, AMEs are now considered among the highest-paying trades in Canada.

• Earnings reach up to $120,000 with licensing and experience
  
  
• Highly trained AMEs are among the most in-demand trade jobs in Canada
  

9. Welder (Specialized)

Specialized welders—working in underwater, pipeline, or aerospace sectors—can earn $55,000 to over $100,000 annually. Their ability to perform precision tasks in extreme conditions places them among the highest-paying trades in Canada. Certification levels such as CWB or Red Seal enable access to national and international projects, increasing portability and pay. Skilled welders fill essential roles in offshore drilling, conflict-free alloy manufacturing, and advanced infrastructure projects.

• Specialized welders command six-figure salaries in niche sectors
  
  
• Strong demand makes welding one of the best trade jobs in Canada
  

10. Construction Manager (from Trade)

Construction managers with trade backgrounds (like electrician, plumber, or carpenter) can earn $90,000–130,000+ annually, making this role one of the highest-paying trades in Canada when career paths are maximized. They oversee project planning, budgeting, regulatory compliance, and personnel. Skilled tradespeople often transition to management, leveraging them as one of the best trade jobs in Canada for upward mobility and financial reward.

• Salaries start at $90,000, rising well above $130,000 with experience
  
  
• Management roles reward technical skills and leadership—a top in-demand trade job in Canada
  

Trade careers are thriving across the country, offering financial stability, job security, and in many cases, six-figure salaries. As the demand for skilled workers surges in both traditional and emerging industries, it’s no surprise that many Canadians are turning to the trades. Whether you’re looking for the highest-paying trades in Canada, the best trade jobs in Canada for long-term growth, or the most in-demand trade jobs in Canada to future-proof your career, this guide covers the top options leading the way in 2025.

Jobs Worth the Trade in Canada

The skilled trades are no longer viewed as a backup plan—they are a direct path to financial freedom, stability, and long-term success. From powerline technicians and elevator mechanics to welders and HVAC professionals, Canada’s workforce is in urgent need of these high-impact roles. Many of the highest-paying trades in Canada don’t require a university degree but offer six-figure incomes, strong union support, and national mobility through Red Seal certification. If you’re looking for a practical, high-reward career, these are the best trade jobs in Canada to watch, train for, and grow into over the next decade.

FAQ – Highest-Paying Trades in Canada

What are the highest-paying trades in Canada in 2025?

Powerline technicians, elevator mechanics, and aircraft maintenance engineers top the list of highest-paying trades in Canada.

What is the best trade job in Canada with long-term growth?

Industrial electricians and construction managers are considered the best trade jobs in Canada for high earnings and mobility.

Which trades are most in-demand in Canada right now?

HVAC technicians, heavy equipment techs, and Red Seal-certified plumbers are among the most in-demand trade jobs in Canada.

How much can I earn in a skilled trade in Canada?

Many skilled trades in Canada pay between $70,000 and $120,000 per year, depending on certification and province.

Do I need college to enter the highest paying trades in Canada?

No. Most of the best trade jobs in Canada require apprenticeships and certifications—not a university degree.