Intro to Highest Paying Trades in Ontario
Hey friends its Lester your favorite American! Question? Do you want to earn a six-figure income without a university degree?
It’s not only possible it’s actually pretty common in Ontario’s skilled trades. While everyone’s debating the value of a bachelor’s degree, thousands of tradespeople are quietly building wealth, buying homes, and enjoying job security that most office workers only dream about.
This guide breaks down the highest-paying trades in Ontario, what you can realistically expect to earn at different career stages, and what it actually takes to reach the top of the pay scale. We’ll also explore the factors that separate good wages from great ones in the trades.
The Truth About Trade Salaries
Before we dive into specific numbers, let’s get a few things straight.
First, the “average” salary you see online doesn’t tell the whole story. A first-year apprentice and a licensed contractor with 15 years of experience are worlds apart in terms of earnings. Therefore, we’ll break down compensation by experience level throughout this guide.
Second, location matters. Someone working in Toronto or Ottawa typically earns more than someone in a smaller town—but the cost of living differs too. Additionally, certain regions have specialized industries (like nuclear power in Durham or automotive in Windsor) that can boost trade wages significantly.
Finally, your earning potential depends heavily on factors like:
- Whether you’re unionized
- If you’re willing to work overtime or travel
- Your specialized certifications and skills
- Whether you eventually start your own business
With that context in mind, let’s look at the trades that consistently pay the best.
Top 15 Highest-Paying Trades in Ontario
1. Elevator Constructor/Mechanic
Entry-level: $55,000-$65,000
Journeyperson: $85,000-$95,000
Top earners: $110,000-$130,000+
This is consistently the highest-paid trade in Ontario and for good reason. Elevator mechanics install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. The work requires precision, problem-solving skills, and isn’t afraid of heights.
Why it pays so well: Limited number of training positions, high responsibility (people’s safety depends on your work), and strong union representation. Moreover, Toronto’s condo boom means constant demand.
The catch: Getting into an elevator apprenticeship is extremely competitive. You’ll need patience and persistence.
2. Power Line Technician (Electrician – Power System)
Entry-level: $50,000-$60,000
Journeyperson: $80,000-$95,000
Top earners: $120,000-$140,000+
These are the folks who keep Ontario’s lights on—literally. Power line technicians work on electrical transmission and distribution systems, often in challenging conditions.
Why it pays so well: Dangerous work at significant heights, requires extensive training and certification, and involves emergency call-outs. Furthermore, utilities typically offer excellent benefits packages.
The catch: You’ll work in all weather conditions and be on call for emergencies. Storm season means long hours.
3. Construction Millwright (Industrial Mechanic)
Entry-level: $48,000-$56,000
Journeyperson: $75,000-$90,000
Top earners: $110,000-$125,000+
Millwrights install, maintain, and repair industrial machinery and equipment. Think of them as the problem-solvers of the industrial world.
Why it pays so well: Complex troubleshooting skills required, work in diverse industries (manufacturing, power generation, mining), and planned shutdowns often mean premium overtime pay. Additionally, travel opportunities can significantly boost earnings.
The catch: Irregular hours during shutdowns and turnarounds. You might work 12-hour days for weeks, then have quiet periods.
4. Pipefitter/Steamfitter
Entry-level: $47,000-$55,000
Journeyperson: $75,000-$90,000
Top earners: $105,000-$120,000+
Pipefitters work with high-pressure piping systems in industrial, commercial, and institutional settings. This includes everything from HVAC systems to process piping in manufacturing plants.
Why it pays so well: Specialized welding skills, blueprint reading expertise, and work in industrial settings with premium pay rates. Moreover, nuclear power plants and refineries offer particularly high wages.
The catch: Physically demanding work, often in tight spaces. Travel to job sites is common.
5. Crane Operator
Entry-level: $48,000-$55,000
Journeyperson: $70,000-$85,000
Top earners: $100,000-$115,000+
Tower crane operators work on major construction projects throughout Ontario, and their skills are in high demand as cities continue to grow upward.
Why it pays so well: High responsibility (safety-critical role), limited number of certified operators, and strong union presence on major projects. Additionally, operators on high-rise buildings command premium rates.
The catch: Long days in a crane cab, sometimes in extreme temperatures. Not ideal if you’re uncomfortable with heights.
6. Industrial Electrician
Entry-level: $46,000-$54,000
Journeyperson: $72,000-$88,000
Top earners: $100,000-$118,000+
Industrial electricians work in manufacturing plants, factories, and industrial facilities, maintaining and troubleshooting complex electrical systems.
Why it pays so well: Requires both Red Seal certification and additional industrial training, involves PLC programming and automation systems, and shutdowns offer significant overtime opportunities. Furthermore, specialized industries like automotive and pharmaceuticals pay premium wages.
The catch: Shift work is common, and you need to continuously update your skills as technology evolves.
7. Instrumentation and Control Technician
Entry-level: $48,000-$56,000
Journeyperson: $74,000-$88,000
Top earners: $105,000-$120,000+
These technicians install, calibrate, and maintain the instruments and control systems that monitor and regulate industrial processes.
Why it pays so well: Highly specialized knowledge, critical for process industries (chemical, pharmaceutical, power generation), and combines electrical, electronic, and mechanical skills. Moreover, most facilities can’t operate without functioning instrumentation.
The catch: Requires strong math and analytical skills. Not the most hands-on of trades—you’ll spend time working with computers and software.
8. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
Entry-level: $44,000-$52,000
Journeyperson: $68,000-$82,000
Top earners: $95,000-$110,000+
HVAC mechanics install and service heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in commercial and industrial settings.
Why it pays so well: Year-round demand (heating in winter, cooling in summer), emergency service calls command premium rates, and specialized certifications (like ammonia refrigeration) significantly boost earnings. Additionally, business owners often earn well into six figures.
The catch: You’re busiest when everyone else wants to be comfortable—expect long hours during heat waves and cold snaps.
9. Plumber
Entry-level: $45,000-$52,000
Journeyperson: $70,000-$85,000
Top earners: $95,000-$115,000+
Plumbers install and repair pipes, fixtures, and systems that supply water and remove waste. Despite the jokes, it’s a highly skilled and well-compensated trade.
Why it pays so well: Constant demand (everyone needs plumbing), emergency calls pay premium rates, and scope for specialization (medical gas, fire suppression). Furthermore, self-employed plumbers often significantly exceed these figures.
The catch: You will deal with unpleasant situations occasionally. It comes with the territory.
10. Welder (Specialized)
Entry-level: $42,000-$50,000
Journeyperson: $65,000-$80,000
Top earners: $90,000-$110,000+
While basic welding pays moderately, specialized welders particularly those with certifications in TIG, underwater welding, or who work with exotic metals command premium wages.
Why it pays so well: Specialized certifications are valuable, positions in aerospace or nuclear industries pay significantly more, and welding inspection adds another income stream. Moreover, traveling welders on major industrial projects can earn premium day rates.
The catch: Some forms of welding are physically demanding and take place in challenging environments.
11. Heavy Equipment Operator (Specialized)
Entry-level: $45,000-$52,000
Journeyperson: $68,000-$82,000
Top earners: $95,000-$110,000+
Operating heavy equipment on major infrastructure projects, mining operations, or specialized construction sites can be quite lucrative. There are several different machines you can be certified on so get started training asap!
Why it pays so well: Experience operating multiple equipment types increases value, mining and major infrastructure projects offer higher wages, and overtime during construction season boosts annual earnings. Additionally, owner-operators with their own equipment earn significantly more.
The catch: Seasonal slowdowns can affect annual income unless you work in year-round industries like mining.
12. Sheet Metal Worker
Entry-level: $43,000-$51,000
Journeyperson: $68,000-$80,000
Top earners: $90,000-$105,000+
Sheet metal workers fabricate and install products made from thin metal sheets, including ductwork, roofing, and architectural elements.
Why it pays so well: Combination of shop work and installation, specialized architectural work commands premium rates, and industrial installations offer higher wages. Furthermore, the skill is versatile across multiple industries.
The catch: Can involve working at heights and in various weather conditions depending on the project.
13. Construction Electrician
Entry-level: $44,000-$52,000
Journeyperson: $68,000-$82,000
Top earners: $90,000-$105,000+
While not quite as lucrative as industrial electricians, construction electricians working on major commercial projects or specializing in areas like high-voltage or solar installation can earn excellent incomes.
Why it pays so well: Steady demand from construction sector, specialized systems (fire alarm, solar, automation) pay more, and commercial projects typically pay better than residential. Moreover, overtime on project deadlines can significantly boost earnings.
The catch: Work can be seasonal in some sectors, and you’re starting fresh at each new construction site.
14. Gasfitter
Entry-level: $43,000-$50,000
Journeyperson: $66,000-$80,000
Top earners: $88,000-$105,000+
Gasfitters install and maintain gas lines and appliances in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Why it pays so well: Specialized safety-critical work, relatively few practitioners compared to demand, and combination with plumbing creates versatile skillset. Additionally, industrial gasfitting pays considerably more than residential.
The catch: Significant responsibility—working with gas requires constant vigilance and attention to safety.
15. Automotive Service Technician (Master)
Entry-level: $38,000-$45,000
Journeyperson: $55,000-$68,000
Master Technician: $75,000-$95,000+
Master automotive technicians with specialized certifications (especially in diagnostics, hybrid/electric vehicles, or luxury brands) can earn impressive incomes.
Why it pays so well: Dealerships pay skilled technicians well to retain them, diagnostic work commands higher labor rates, and electric vehicle expertise is increasingly valuable. Furthermore, shop owners and service managers earn considerably more.
The catch: Tools are expensive, and you need to continuously learn as vehicle technology evolves rapidly.
What Separates High Earners from Average Earners?
Making good money in a trade isn’t automatic. Here’s what the top earners typically do differently:
1. They pursue specialized certifications
Beyond your Red Seal, additional certifications in specific systems, equipment, or techniques make you more valuable. For instance, a welder with both Red Seal and CWB certifications in multiple processes will always out-earn someone with just basic certification.
2. They’re willing to travel
Industrial shutdowns, remote mining projects, and major infrastructure builds often pay premium wages—but you need to go where the work is. Consequently, tradespeople willing to travel typically earn 20-40% more than those who work locally only.
3. They work strategically with overtime
Understanding when overtime is available and positioning yourself for those opportunities can add $15,000-$30,000 to your annual income. However, this requires balancing work with your personal life sustainably.
4. They continuously upgrade their skills
Technology doesn’t stand still, and neither should you. Whether it’s learning new software, understanding emerging systems, or expanding your ticket, ongoing education directly correlates with earnings.
5. They eventually go into business for themselves
Many of the highest earners are self-employed or own small companies. This path isn’t for everyone, but it significantly increases earning potential for those who can handle the business side.
The Benefits Beyond Base Salary
When comparing trade salaries to other careers, don’t forget these factors:
Pension plans: Many unionized trades offer defined benefit pensions—increasingly rare in the modern economy. Therefore, your retirement income might be more secure than someone earning a similar salary in an office job.
Benefits packages: Health, dental, vision, and prescription coverage add thousands in annual value. Moreover, many trades include education funds for your children.
Tool allowances and vehicle allowances: These can add several thousand dollars annually and offset your work expenses.
Overtime opportunities: Time-and-a-half or double-time can significantly boost your take-home pay during busy periods.
Earlier retirement: Many tradespeople can retire with full pension at 55-60, giving you more years to enjoy life after work.
Regional Variations in Ontario
Where you work matters. Here’s a quick regional breakdown:
Greater Toronto Area: Highest base wages, but also highest cost of living. Nevertheless, the sheer volume of work means plenty of opportunities.
Ottawa: Strong government and institutional work, solid wages with more manageable living costs than Toronto.
Southwestern Ontario (London, Windsor, Kitchener-Waterloo): Industrial sector offers premium wages, particularly in automotive and manufacturing. Furthermore, lower cost of living means your money goes further.
Northern Ontario: Mining and resource extraction create high-paying opportunities, often with remote premiums and unique benefits. Additionally, some companies offer fly-in/fly-out arrangements.
Hamilton and Niagara: Industrial heartland with strong union presence and solid middle-ground wages.
The Reality Check
Let’s be honest about what it takes to reach the higher end of these salary ranges:
- You’ll work physically demanding jobs, often in challenging conditions
- Overtime means sacrificing evenings, weekends, and sometimes holidays
- Continuous learning isn’t optional if you want to stay competitive
- Some trades require significant tool investments (though many employers provide allowances)
- Starting wages are modest—you need years of experience to reach top earnings
However, the rewards are real:
- Six-figure incomes without student debt
- Job security in industries that can’t be outsourced
- Tangible accomplishments you can point to
- Respect from peers who understand skilled work
- Multiple pathways to business ownership
Your Path Forward
If you’re interested in pursuing one of these high-paying trades, here’s what to do next:
First, research the trade thoroughly. Talk to people actually doing the work—ask about the good, the bad, and the reality behind the salary numbers.
Next, investigate apprenticeship opportunities. Contact unions, employers, and training institutions to understand available pathways.
Then, consider your long-term goals. Are you willing to travel? Do you eventually want to run your own business? Pick a trade that aligns with where you see yourself in 10-15 years.
Finally, commit to continuous improvement. The highest earners never stop learning, and neither should you.
The skilled trades in Ontario offer genuine opportunities for financial success. The question isn’t whether the money is there it’s whether you’re ready to put in the work to earn it.
About the Author
Lester Burkes is the Dean of Automotive & Trades at Clover Park Technical College and founder of LearnSkilledTrades.com. He helps people navigate career decisions in the skilled trades across North America.
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