Canada’s truck mechanic jobs are attracting skilled immigrants due to the country’s expanding transportation sector. Employers are offering visa sponsorship to qualified candidates.
Truck mechanics maintain and repair heavy-duty vehicles, ensuring safe and efficient operation. To secure a job, applicants need relevant experience, trade certifications, and a valid work permit or visa sponsorship. Explore how to apply for truck mechanic jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship today.
Keep Reading!
Entry-Level Skills And Experience Required For Truck Mechanic Jobs In Canada
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required. Completion of a truck or heavy-duty mechanic apprenticeship program or vocational training in automotive technology is highly preferred.
- Technical Skills:
- Basic understanding of diesel engines, electrical systems, and hydraulics.
- Proficiency with hand tools and diagnostic equipment to inspect, repair, and maintain trucks.
- Knowledge of brake systems, steering mechanisms, and transmissions.
- Experience:
- Practical hands-on experience, either through internships or entry-level roles, is essential.
- Experience in diagnosing mechanical issues and conducting repairs is a plus.
- Soft Skills:
- Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Good communication skills to interact with supervisors and colleagues.
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is often required, especially for safety protocols and technical manuals.
Truck Mechanic Salary Expectations For Immigrants In Canada
| Region | Hourly Wage (CAD) | Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $28 – $40 | $58,000 – $83,000 |
| British Columbia | $25 – $38 | $52,000 – $79,000 |
| Ontario | $24 – $37 | $50,000 – $77,000 |
| Manitoba | $22 – $34 | $46,000 – $71,000 |
| Saskatchewan | $23 – $35 | $48,000 – $73,000 |
| Quebec | $20 – $33 | $42,000 – $69,000 |
| Nova Scotia | $21 – $32 | $44,000 – $67,000 |
Truck mechanics in Canada earn competitive wages, with high demand regions like Alberta and British Columbia offering up to $40 per hour or $83,000 annually. Ontario offers similar salaries, while Manitoba and Saskatchewan offer slightly lower earnings.
Quebec and Nova Scotia have the lowest salaries, with annual pay starting around $42,000. Immigrant truck mechanics can expect a good living in various parts of Canada.
Top 5 Companies Hiring Truck Mechanics In Canada
Here is a list of companies in Canada that are hiring truck mechanics, along with their requirements for immigrants and relevant links for more details:
1. Bison Transport
- Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba (with branches across Canada)
- Link: Bison Transport Careers
2. Trimac Transportation
- Location: Calgary, Alberta (multiple locations across Canada)
- Link: Trimac Careers
3. Ryder Canada
- Location: Mississauga, Ontario (locations across Canada)
- Link: Ryder Canada Careers
4. Penske Truck Leasing
- Location: Various locations, including Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and British Columbia
- Link: Penske Careers
5. Volvo Trucks Canada
- Location: Across Canada (dealerships in multiple provinces)
- Link: Volvo Trucks Careers
Visa Types and Visa Requirements for Employment For Truck Mechanics
1. Temporary Work Permit
Requirements:
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer is required before applying.
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Employers must obtain an LMIA, which proves that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the job.
- Certification: Truck mechanics often need a recognized trade certification (e.g., Red Seal certification or equivalent) or completion of a heavy-duty mechanic apprenticeship.
- Experience: Proven experience in diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and truck maintenance is crucial.
- Work Permit Application: Once the LMIA is approved, the applicant can apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Language Proficiency: Some employers may require proof of English or French language skills, especially if your work involves safety protocols or customer interaction.
- Medical Exam: Depending on the region, a medical exam may be required for truck mechanics working in heavy industries.
How to Apply:
- After receiving the LMIA and job offer, apply for a work permit through the Government of Canada website.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Requirements:
- Provincial Nomination: Each province has its own stream targeting skilled workers, including truck mechanics. You must meet the provincial criteria and receive a nomination.
- Job Offer or In-Demand Occupation: In provinces like Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario, truck mechanics are often in high demand. A job offer might not always be mandatory, but in some cases, it is beneficial.
- Work Experience: Minimum of one year of relevant work experience in truck maintenance or heavy-duty mechanics.
- Trade Certification: In some provinces, truck mechanics need a Red Seal or equivalent certification.
- Language Proficiency: Minimum language requirements in English or French (depending on the province).
- Education: High school diploma or relevant trade certification.
How to Apply:
- Apply directly through the province’s immigration program. Once nominated, you can apply for permanent residency via the IRCC website.
3. Express Entry (Federal Skilled Trades Program)
Requirements:
- Job Offer (Optional): A job offer is not mandatory, but it improves your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in the Express Entry system.
- Work Experience: At least two years of full-time work experience in the last five years as a truck mechanic or in a related field.
- Certification: Trade certification such as the Red Seal endorsement can help qualify under the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
- Language Proficiency: Must pass an English or French language test (IELTS or TEF), with minimum scores in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent, though higher qualifications improve CRS scores.
- Medical and Police Clearance.
How to Apply:
- Create an Express Entry profile and submit it through the IRCC Express Entry portal.
- If selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
4. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Requirements:
- Job Offer: You need a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces.
- Work Experience: Minimum one year of related work experience as a truck mechanic or in heavy-duty vehicle maintenance.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Language Proficiency: Minimum language proficiency in English or French.
- Medical and Police Clearance.
How to Apply:
- Secure a job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.
- Apply through the Atlantic Immigration Program for either permanent residency or a temporary work permit.
5. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Requirements:
- Job Offer: Must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Employers must obtain an LMIA to prove the need for a foreign worker.
- Certification: Recognized trade certification or apprenticeship in truck mechanics.
- Work Experience: Previous experience in the truck or heavy-duty mechanic field is required.
- Medical Exam: Truck mechanics often need to pass a medical exam due to the physical demands of the job.
- Work Permit: Apply for a work permit after receiving the LMIA approval.
How to Apply:
- Once the employer obtains the LMIA, you can apply for a work permit through the Government of Canada website.
6. Caregiver Pathway for Heavy-Duty Mechanics
Requirements:
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Certification: Must be certified in truck or heavy-duty mechanics.
- Experience: At least two years of work experience in truck maintenance or heavy-duty mechanics.
- Language Proficiency: English or French proficiency, as required.
- LMIA: The employer must have an approved LMIA to hire foreign workers.
- Work Permit: Apply for a work permit under the Caregiver Pathway.
How to Apply:
- After the job offer and LMIA approval, apply for a work permit through the IRCC website.
How To Apply For Truck Mechanic Jobs As An Immigrant In Canada
Applying for truck mechanic jobs in Canada as an immigrant involves several key steps, from job searching to visa application. Below is a detailed guide to help you through the process.
1. Research and Identify Job Opportunities
Start by finding job opportunities that match your skills and qualifications. Several online job portals and company websites list vacancies for truck mechanics in Canada.
Popular Job Websites:
Look for employers who may offer visa sponsorship or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) approval, which is essential for obtaining a work permit.
2. Ensure You Meet the Job Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet the basic qualifications for a truck mechanic in Canada, which often include:
- Trade Certification: Many provinces require truck mechanics to hold a Red Seal or equivalent certification. If your certification is from another country, research whether it is recognized in Canada or if you need additional exams.
- Relevant Experience: Employers prefer applicants with hands-on experience in truck and heavy-duty equipment maintenance and repair.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in English or French (depending on the province) is often required. You may need to take a language proficiency test, such as IELTS or TEF.
- Valid Driver’s License.
3. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Customize your resume to highlight your relevant experience, trade certifications, and mechanical expertise. Include the following details:
- A summary of your work history as a truck or heavy-duty mechanic.
- Specific skills related to truck engine repair, diagnostics, and safety procedures.
- Any certifications or licenses that are required in Canada.
In your cover letter, mention that you are willing to relocate and are eligible for visa sponsorship (if applicable).
4. Submit Applications
Apply directly to companies that are hiring truck mechanics. You can use company career pages, job boards, or recruitment agencies specializing in hiring mechanics. Ensure that you follow the specific application instructions outlined by each employer, and submit all required documents (resume, certifications, references).
5. Obtain a Job Offer
Once an employer expresses interest in hiring you, you will likely be required to go through an interview and possibly a skills test. If successful, the employer will extend a formal job offer.
Conclusion
Canada offers truck mechanic jobs for skilled workers seeking a stable career and international work experience. Employers sponsor qualified immigrants through visa programs like Temporary Work Permit, Express Entry, and Provincial Nominee Programs.
Securing a job requires relevant certifications, hands-on experience, and language proficiency. Immigrants can explore pathways to permanent residency and find rewarding employment in Canada, making it an attractive destination for long-term opportunities.
Related: