Canada has a growing industrial base, and the industrial machinery and heavy equipment sector is vital to its economy. With infrastructure projects, mining, oil & gas, and manufacturing all relying on this equipment, skilled professionals are in high demand across the country.
Jobs in this sector often come with above-average wages, overtime opportunities, and strong union support in many regions. Employers frequently offer comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and training programs.
Whether you’re a mechanic, welder, machinist, or engineer, there’s a wide range of roles for both entry-level and experienced professionals. Hands-on technical skills are highly valued, and many trades are eligible for Red Seal certification, which enhances mobility across provinces.
The industry is becoming increasingly sophisticated, using automation, robotics, and AI-driven diagnostics. Working in this field in Canada offers exposure to cutting-edge equipment and the chance to be part of an evolving, technology-forward industry.
Given its role in essential industries, this sector offers long-term career stability. Many companies also provide on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and advancement opportunities, making it a great place to build a career.
From British Columbia to Newfoundland, and especially in industrial hubs like Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, there is demand across the country. Professionals can choose to work in urban centers, remote project sites, or even travel internationally with Canadian experience.
Canada actively supports immigration for skilled trades through programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The machinery and equipment sector is often included in the in-demand occupations list, making it easier for newcomers to enter the job market.
Canada's massive infrastructure, mining, and energy projects rely on powerful machines—and the skilled people who run, repair, and innovate them. For international candidates, this sector is your chance to work on projects that shape entire cities and industries.
Have experience abroad? Bring it here. Canada's heavy equipment and machinery sector welcomes international talent, especially those with hands-on skills in maintenance, operation, automation, and repair. Many trades are recognized or transferable with certification pathways.
Gone are the days of just grease and gears. Canada's machinery industry is powered by cutting-edge technologies—from AI diagnostics and autonomous systems to smart hydraulics. As an international professional, you can be at the forefront of industrial innovation.
Many roles in this sector qualify under Canada's skilled immigration programs, including Express Entry and PNPs. That means your job could be more than a contract—it could be a path to a future in Canada.
Whether it's a remote mining site in the Rockies or a booming factory in Ontario, you'll find a balance of nature and industry unlike anywhere else. The work is hands-on, the equipment is massive, and the settings are often stunning.
Canada is known for strict safety standards and professional support in industrial sectors. As an international worker, you’ll receive comprehensive training, health and safety protections, and on-the-job mentorship to help you succeed.
The industry isn’t just hiring; it’s investing in talent. You can grow from technician to supervisor, operator to project manager. Many employers offer immigration sponsorship, upskilling programs, and promotion from within.
Canada's industrial sector reflects its multicultural values. You’ll work with people from around the world, in a setting that respects different cultures, languages, and experiences—making international professionals feel right at home.
Job Title |
Job Description |
Key Skills & Requirements |
---|---|---|
Heavy Equipment Operator |
Operates machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and graders on job sites |
Machine operation, safety protocols, certification (e.g., HEO license) |
Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) |
Installs, maintains, and repairs industrial machinery and mechanical systems |
Troubleshooting, mechanical repair, Red Seal certification optional |
Heavy Duty Equipment Technician |
Diagnoses and repairs heavy equipment like trucks, cranes, and mining machinery |
Diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, apprenticeship required |
Welder/Fabricator |
Fabricates and welds machine parts and structural components |
MIG/TIG welding, blueprint reading, CWB certification preferred |
Machinist |
Operates lathes, milling machines, and other tools to make precision parts |
CNC operation, blueprint reading, machining techniques |
Industrial Electrician |
Installs and maintains electrical systems in heavy machinery and industrial sites |
Electrical code knowledge, troubleshooting, Red Seal certification |
Mechanical Engineer |
Designs and improves machinery and mechanical systems in industrial settings |
CAD design, mechanical systems, engineering degree |
Field Service Technician |
Provides on-site maintenance and repair of heavy equipment |
Diagnostics, customer service, technical training |
Equipment Assembler |
Assembles new machinery based on technical drawings and specifications |
Mechanical aptitude, teamwork, tool handling |
CNC Operator/Programmer |
Programs and operates CNC machines for part production |
G-code programming, CAD/CAM software, precision measurement |
Safety Coordinator |
Ensures safety compliance on industrial sites and during machinery operation |
OH&S regulations, safety training, certification (e.g., NCSO, CRSP) |
Logistics & Parts Coordinator |
Manages inventory, parts orders, and supply chain for machinery and equipment |
Inventory systems, supply chain knowledge, communication skills |
Job Title |
Salary (CAD/year) |
Salary (USD/year) |
Salary (INR/year) |
---|---|---|---|
Heavy Equipment Operator |
CAD 65,000 |
USD 48,100 |
INR 39,65,000 |
Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) |
CAD 70,000 |
USD 51,800 |
INR 42,70,000 |
Heavy Duty Equipment Technician |
CAD 72,000 |
USD 53,300 |
INR 43,92,000 |
Welder/Fabricator |
CAD 60,000 |
USD 44,400 |
INR 36,60,000 |
Machinist |
CAD 58,000 |
USD 42,900 |
INR 35,38,000 |
Industrial Electrician |
CAD 75,000 |
USD 55,500 |
INR 45,75,000 |
Mechanical Engineer |
CAD 85,000 |
USD 62,900 |
INR 51,85,000 |
Field Service Technician |
CAD 68,000 |
USD 50,300 |
INR 41,48,000 |
Equipment Assembler |
CAD 52,000 |
USD 38,500 |
INR 31,72,000 |
CNC Operator/Programmer |
CAD 62,000 |
USD 45,900 |
INR 37,82,000 |
Safety Coordinator |
CAD 70,000 |
USD 51,800 |
INR 42,70,000 |
Logistics & Parts Coordinator |
CAD 55,000 |
USD 40,700 |
INR 33,55,000 |
Maintenance Supervisor |
CAD 78,000 |
USD 57,700 |
INR 47,58,000 |
Project Manager (Industrial) |
CAD 95,000 |
USD 70,300 |
INR 57,95,000 |
Hydraulic Technician |
CAD 65,000 |
USD 48,100 |
INR 39,65,000 |
Quality Control Inspector |
CAD 60,000 |
USD 44,400 |
INR 36,60,000 |
Technical Sales Engineer |
CAD 80,000 |
USD 59,200 |
INR 48,80,000 |
Manufacturing Technician |
CAD 58,000 |
USD 42,900 |
INR 35,38,000 |
Automation Technician |
CAD 72,000 |
USD 53,300 |
INR 43,92,000 |
Electrical Design Engineer |
CAD 90,000 |
USD 66,600 |
INR 54,90,000 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
---|---|
Work Permit / Visa |
Must obtain a valid work permit (e.g., employer-sponsored LMIA-based permit or open work permit) |
Education |
Minimum high school diploma or trade certification; Some roles require college diploma or engineering degree |
Trade Certification (if applicable) |
Red Seal Certification or provincial trade certificates (e.g., Millwright, Electrician, Welder) |
Language Proficiency |
English or French proficiency (CLB 5-7) may be required for work permits or PR pathways |
Work Experience |
Typically 2–5 years of relevant experience in heavy equipment operation, repair, or engineering |
Health & Safety Training |
Certifications like WHMIS, First Aid, or H2S Alive may be required depending on the role |
Job Offer from Canadian Employer |
Required for most work permit streams (unless applying via open work permit or certain PR programs) |
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) |
Employer may need to obtain a positive LMIA to hire a foreign worker |
Credential Recognition |
May need to undergo credential assessment through agencies like WES for regulated occupations |
Immigration Pathway |
May qualify under Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or Rural Immigration Programs |
Age Limit |
No strict age limit, but most immigration programs favor applicants under 45 |
Background Check |
Criminal record check and possibly a medical exam may be required |
Job Profile |
General Roles and Responsibilities |
---|---|
1. Heavy Equipment Operator |
Operate bulldozers, excavators, loaders; ensure safe handling; perform equipment checks and maintenance |
2. Millwright (Industrial Mechanic) |
Install, maintain, and repair industrial machines; align equipment; troubleshoot mechanical failures |
3. Heavy Duty Equipment Technician |
Inspect, diagnose, and repair heavy vehicles and machinery; perform preventative maintenance |
4. Welder/Fabricator |
Weld and fabricate metal structures; interpret blueprints; maintain welding tools and safety standards |
5. Machinist |
Set up and operate machine tools; create metal parts; inspect dimensions for accuracy |
6. Industrial Electrician |
Install and maintain electrical systems on machines; ensure code compliance; troubleshoot faults |
7. Mechanical Engineer |
Design mechanical systems; oversee equipment installation; conduct testing and optimization |
8. Field Service Technician |
Travel to client sites for equipment repair; perform diagnostics; communicate with customers |
9. Equipment Assembler |
Assemble machinery components; follow schematics; test functionality and adjust components |
10. CNC Operator/Programmer |
Program and operate CNC machines; monitor operations; ensure precision and quality control |
11. Safety Coordinator |
Conduct safety inspections; ensure compliance with OH&S regulations; train workers on safety practices |
12. Logistics & Parts Coordinator |
Manage inventory; order machine parts; track shipments and deliveries |
13. Maintenance Supervisor |
Oversee maintenance teams; schedule repairs; manage maintenance records and safety compliance |
14. Project Manager (Industrial) |
Plan and oversee machinery installation/repair projects; coordinate teams and budgets |
15. Hydraulic Technician |
Diagnose and repair hydraulic systems; install hoses, valves, pumps; perform pressure tests |
16. Quality Control Inspector |
Inspect machinery parts and assemblies; ensure adherence to quality standards and tolerances |
17. Technical Sales Engineer |
Provide technical product support; assist customers with machinery selection; close equipment sales |
18. Manufacturing Technician |
Operate and monitor manufacturing equipment; assist in product assembly and testing |
19. Automation Technician |
Install and maintain automated machinery; program PLCs; troubleshoot system errors |
20. Electrical Design Engineer |
Design and test electrical systems for industrial machinery; develop circuit layouts and schematics |
Job Profile |
General Eligibility Requirements |
---|---|
1. Heavy Equipment Operator |
Secondary school diploma, operator certification/license, 2–3 years experience, WHMIS/safety training |
2. Millwright (Industrial Mechanic) |
Diploma in mechanical trades, Red Seal Certification (or eligibility), 2–5 years experience |
3. Heavy Duty Equipment Technician |
Apprenticeship or diploma in heavy equipment tech, certification, diesel system knowledge |
4. Welder/Fabricator |
Trade certification, CWB certification preferred, blueprint reading skills, 2+ years of welding experience |
5. Machinist |
Trade certificate or diploma in machining, CNC skills, ability to read technical drawings |
6. Industrial Electrician |
Red Seal certification or provincial license, diploma in electrical trades, code knowledge |
7. Mechanical Engineer |
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, EIT/PEng registration (preferred), strong CAD & design skills |
8. Field Service Technician |
Technical diploma or trade certification, mechanical/electrical knowledge, valid driver’s license |
9. Equipment Assembler |
High school or mechanical diploma, mechanical aptitude, ability to read diagrams |
10. CNC Operator/Programmer |
CNC programming diploma or experience, G-code knowledge, machining/tool handling |
11. Safety Coordinator |
Diploma in OH&S or relevant field, NCSO or CRSP certification preferred, site safety experience |
12. Logistics & Parts Coordinator |
High school diploma or logistics certificate, inventory software knowledge, organizational skills |
13. Maintenance Supervisor |
Diploma in mechanical/electrical trades, 3–5 years of supervisory experience, CMMS knowledge |
14. Project Manager (Industrial) |
Degree in engineering or project management, PMP certification preferred, industrial project experience |
15. Hydraulic Technician |
Diploma or training in hydraulics, system diagnostics experience, hands-on field work experience |
16. Quality Control Inspector |
Diploma in mechanical or industrial tech, QA/QC training, knowledge of ISO standards |
17. Technical Sales Engineer |
Engineering or technical diploma/degree, communication skills, product knowledge |
18. Manufacturing Technician |
Diploma in manufacturing/industrial tech, equipment operation experience, blueprint reading |
19. Automation Technician |
Diploma in automation or electrical tech, PLC programming, sensor and robotics knowledge |
20. Electrical Design Engineer |
Bachelor’s in electrical engineering, experience with CAD/EPLAN, circuit and system design |
Job Profile |
Typical Experience Required |
Preferred Industry Exposure |
---|---|---|
1. Heavy Equipment Operator |
2–3 years operating machinery |
Construction, mining, roadwork |
2. Millwright (Industrial Mechanic) |
3–5 years in machinery installation/maintenance |
Manufacturing, food processing, mining |
3. Heavy Duty Equipment Technician |
3–5 years in heavy vehicle/equipment repair |
Transportation, oil & gas, logistics |
4. Welder/Fabricator |
2–4 years of welding and metal fabrication |
Industrial manufacturing, shipbuilding, infrastructure |
5. Machinist |
2–3 years of machining or CNC operation |
Metalworking, tool & die, aerospace |
6. Industrial Electrician |
3–5 years in industrial electrical systems |
Manufacturing, utilities, automation |
7. Mechanical Engineer |
2–4 years in mechanical systems design |
Equipment design, production engineering |
8. Field Service Technician |
2–4 years in equipment diagnostics and repair |
Construction, utilities, OEM service |
9. Equipment Assembler |
1–2 years in machinery or product assembly |
Manufacturing, heavy equipment production |
10. CNC Operator/Programmer |
2–3 years of CNC machine setup and programming |
Aerospace, automotive, precision machining |
11. Safety Coordinator |
2–5 years in industrial health and safety |
Construction, manufacturing, energy |
12. Logistics & Parts Coordinator |
1–3 years in parts inventory or logistics management |
Equipment dealerships, manufacturing |
13. Maintenance Supervisor |
4–6 years in industrial maintenance; 2+ years in leadership |
Manufacturing, processing, utilities |
14. Project Manager (Industrial) |
3–6 years in project execution and coordination |
Industrial construction, plant upgrades, engineering |
15. Hydraulic Technician |
2–4 years in hydraulic system repair |
Equipment servicing, manufacturing, oil & gas |
16. Quality Control Inspector |
2–4 years in QA/QC inspections |
Equipment manufacturing, metal fabrication |
17. Technical Sales Engineer |
2–4 years in technical sales or client support |
Equipment suppliers, industrial services |
18. Manufacturing Technician |
2–3 years in operating industrial production equipment |
Electronics, automotive, metal fabrication |
19. Automation Technician |
2–4 years in automation and PLC systems |
Robotics, industrial automation, food processing |
20. Electrical Design Engineer |
3–5 years in circuit/system design |
Electrical equipment manufacturing, automation design |
Company Name |
Industry Type |
Job Opportunities |
International Hiring Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Caterpillar (CAT) Dealers |
Heavy Equipment Manufacturing & Service |
Technicians, Operators, Field Service |
Many dealerships support LMIA; demand in construction & mining |
Finning International |
CAT Equipment Dealer |
Heavy Duty Mechanics, Parts Technicians, Sales |
One of Canada's largest employers of skilled trades globally |
Toromont Industries |
Equipment Rental, Sales & Service |
Field Techs, Millwrights, Service Engineers |
Recruits internationally, especially in skilled trades |
Komatsu Canada |
Mining & Construction Equipment |
Mechanical Techs, Welders, Field Support |
Global company; recruits experienced foreign tradespeople |
SMS Equipment |
Mining, Construction & Forestry Equipment |
Equipment Technicians, Product Support |
Offers relocation and work permit support |
Wajax Corporation |
Industrial Equipment & Power Systems |
Millwrights, Electricians, Field Technicians |
Accepts international applicants with Canadian-equivalent skills |
Liebherr Canada |
Construction & Crane Equipment |
Engineers, Service Technicians, Assembly Workers |
Part of a global group; LMIA support possible |
United Rentals |
Equipment Rentals |
Equipment Mechanics, Shop Technicians, Drivers |
Hires for multiple branches across Canada |
Hydac Canada |
Industrial Hydraulics & Fluid Tech |
Hydraulic Technicians, Assemblers, Mechanical Engineers |
Looks for global experience in hydraulic systems |
John Deere Canada (via dealers) |
Agricultural & Heavy Equipment |
Mechanics, Technicians, Parts Advisors |
Dealerships across Canada; some provide LMIA support |
CNH Industrial |
Equipment Manufacturing (Case, New Holland) |
Production Techs, Field Engineers |
International recruitment for production & tech roles |
Volvo Construction Equipment |
Heavy Equipment Manufacturing |
Service Technicians, Field Engineers, Product Support |
Hires experienced global professionals in service roles |
Herc Rentals |
Industrial Equipment Rental |
Service Technicians, Mechanics, Operators |
Nationwide hiring; LMIA possible for in-demand roles |
Brandt Group of Companies |
Construction & Agricultural Equipment |
Millwrights, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Sales |
International recruitment in skilled trades |
PCL Construction |
Construction & Industrial Services |
Equipment Operators, Safety Coordinators, Site Supervisors |
Active PNP employer in many provinces |
EllisDon |
Construction & Infrastructure |
Equipment Coordinators, Site Technicians |
Supports foreign talent for long-term projects |
Magna International |
Automotive & Industrial Manufacturing |
CNC Operators, Machinists, Maintenance Technicians |
Actively hires foreign-trained professionals |
Suncor Energy |
Oil Sands & Mining Equipment Operations |
Field Mechanics, Equipment Operators, Industrial Electricians |
Strong immigration support in Alberta |
Teck Resources |
Mining & Natural Resources |
Heavy Equipment Operators, Millwrights, Mechanics |
Operates in remote locations; LMIA and relocation support |
Ledcor Group |
Heavy Civil & Industrial Projects |
Equipment Operators, Field Techs, Safety Staff |
Hires foreign workers for remote and long-term projects |
Job Profile |
Average Salary (CAD/year) |
General Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|---|---|---|
Heavy Equipment Operator |
CAD 65,000 |
HEO license, 2–3 yrs exp, WHMIS/safety training |
PCL, Ledcor, Teck, SMS Equipment |
Operate excavators, loaders, bulldozers; perform basic maintenance |
Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) |
CAD 70,000 |
Red Seal certification or equivalent, 3–5 yrs exp |
Toromont CAT, Magna, Wajax, Brandt |
Install, maintain, and repair industrial machinery and equipment |
Heavy Duty Equipment Technician |
CAD 72,000 |
Trade certificate, diesel/mechanical knowledge, 3–5 yrs exp |
Finning, Komatsu, Caterpillar Dealers |
Diagnose and repair engines, hydraulics, and electrical systems in heavy equipment |
Welder/Fabricator |
CAD 60,000 |
CWB certification, blueprint reading, 2–4 yrs exp |
Liebherr, Wajax, John Deere Dealers |
Weld and fabricate parts; read schematics; ensure quality of joints |
Machinist |
CAD 58,000 |
Machining diploma, CNC operation, 2–3 yrs exp |
Magna, Brandt, CNH Industrial |
Operate machine tools (CNC/lathe); fabricate and inspect precision parts |
Industrial Electrician |
CAD 75,000 |
Red Seal/Provincial license, electrical code knowledge |
Hydro One, Suncor, SNC-Lavalin |
Install and maintain electrical systems in industrial equipment and facilities |
Mechanical Engineer |
CAD 85,000 |
Bachelor’s degree, CAD proficiency, 2–4 yrs exp |
Liebherr, ABB, Fluor, GE Vernova |
Design, analyze, and improve mechanical systems; oversee equipment development |
Field Service Technician |
CAD 68,000 |
Tech diploma, valid driver's license, 2–4 yrs exp |
SMS Equipment, Komatsu, Finning |
Provide on-site maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs |
Equipment Assembler |
CAD 52,000 |
High school/trade diploma, mechanical aptitude |
John Deere, Brandt, CNH Industrial |
Assemble equipment using schematics; test machine operation |
CNC Operator/Programmer |
CAD 62,000 |
CNC programming experience, G-code, 2–3 yrs exp |
Magna, Brandt, manufacturing companies |
Operate and program CNC machines; monitor production quality |
Safety Coordinator |
CAD 70,000 |
OH&S diploma, NCSO/CRSP preferred, site experience |
PCL, Kiewit, EllisDon |
Ensure safety compliance, train staff, investigate incidents |
Logistics & Parts Coordinator |
CAD 55,000 |
Inventory management experience, ERP software knowledge |
Wajax, Finning, United Rentals |
Manage parts inventory, orders, and distribution |
Maintenance Supervisor |
CAD 78,000 |
4–6 yrs maintenance exp, supervisory skills, CMMS knowledge |
Suncor, Magna, Teck |
Oversee maintenance team, schedule repairs, manage equipment performance |
Project Manager (Industrial) |
CAD 95,000 |
Engineering/PM degree, PMP preferred, 3–6 yrs exp |
Fluor, Aecon, EllisDon |
Plan, coordinate, and execute industrial machinery projects |
Hydraulic Technician |
CAD 65,000 |
Diploma in hydraulics or mechanical tech, 2–4 yrs exp |
Hydac, SMS Equipment, Wajax |
Diagnose and service hydraulic systems, test valves/pumps |
Quality Control Inspector |
CAD 60,000 |
QA/QC training, ISO standards, 2–4 yrs inspection experience |
CNH Industrial, Magna, Caterpillar dealers |
Inspect machine components, ensure quality and safety standards |
Technical Sales Engineer |
CAD 80,000 |
Tech diploma/degree, communication skills, product knowledge |
Wajax, Toromont, ABB |
Assist clients with equipment selection, provide technical sales support |
Manufacturing Technician |
CAD 58,000 |
Diploma in manufacturing/industrial tech, 2–3 yrs exp |
Magna, Brandt, John Deere |
Operate industrial equipment, inspect products, support production lines |
Automation Technician |
CAD 72,000 |
PLC programming, robotics knowledge, 2–4 yrs automation exp |
ABB, Magna, SNC-Lavalin |
Maintain and troubleshoot automated systems in manufacturing or processing plants |
Electrical Design Engineer |
CAD 90,000 |
Electrical engineering degree, CAD/EPLAN software, 3–5 yrs exp |
GE Vernova, ABB, Hydro One |
Design and test electrical systems and circuit layouts for industrial machinery |
Visa/Program Name |
Type |
Best For |
Key Features & Requirements |
---|---|---|---|
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) |
Work Permit |
Skilled trades like welders, mechanics, operators |
Requires job offer + LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment); employer sponsorship mandatory |
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Trades Program - FSTP) |
Permanent Residency (PR) |
Red Seal trades and skilled technicians |
Must meet language, work experience, and eligibility criteria; no job offer required, but helps |
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) |
PR or Work Permit |
Roles in demand in specific provinces |
Provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario offer streams for trades and equipment techs |
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) |
PR Pathway |
Jobs in Atlantic provinces (NS, NB, PEI, NL) |
For eligible employers hiring foreign workers; no LMIA needed, but job offer required |
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) |
PR Pathway |
Skilled workers in small and remote communities |
Community-specific criteria; must have a valid job offer and meet experience requirements |
Global Talent Stream (GTS) |
Work Permit (fast-track) |
Highly skilled engineers and techs |
Fast-tracked visa (2 weeks); applies to automation, robotics, and engineering roles |
International Mobility Program (IMP) |
LMIA-Exempt Work Permit |
Intra-company transfers, trade agreements |
Covers NAFTA/USMCA, Francophone mobility, and intra-company transfers |
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) |
Open Work Permit |
International students in related technical fields |
Valid up to 3 years; no job offer required; leads to Canadian work experience for PR |
Agri-Food Immigration Pilot (limited use) |
PR Pathway |
Specific equipment roles in food/agriculture processing |
May apply to equipment mechanics in agri-food plants |
Spousal Open Work Permit |
Open Work Permit |
Spouses of international students or workers |
No job offer needed; can work in any sector including heavy equipment |