The highest-paying job in Canada is a specialty surgeon, with an average annual salary of $432,495. Clinical specialists, judges, and managers for engineering, information technology (IT), and utility companies also rank in the top 10 highest-paid jobs.
These positions require a lot of training, advanced education, and experience in the field. But there are other jobs that pay well and don't require a degree, like pipefitter and air traffic controller – a few of these roles could even bring you into the top 1% income in Canada.
As you read the list below, remember that the incomes for these positions can vary and what we've mentioned here are the average annual salaries nationwide.
Key Takeaways
- The highest-paying jobs in Canada include several medical professions, a few IT jobs, and engineering positions.
- The average annual salaries for the highest-paying jobs range from $128,502 to $432,495.
- Achieving one of these high-paying jobs requires a lot of education and work experience.
The best paying jobs in Canada
If you want to earn more than a middle-class income, check out these 10 highest-paying jobs in Canada, according to the government Job Bank:
- Surgical specialists
- Clinical and laboratory medicine specialists
- General practitioners and family physicians
- Judges
- Dentists and orthodontists
- Senior managers (CEOs, etc.)
- Engineering managers
- Utilities managers
- Petroleum engineers
- Computer and information systems managers
How we determined the best-paying jobs in Canada: We checked the Government of Canada's Job Bank, which publishes average salaries by profession. The numbers below reflect the nationwide average salary for the role – wages vary considerably from province to province, even within the same profession.
1. Surgical specialists
- Salary range: $80,375 – $878,449
- Average salary: $432,495
- Educational requirement: 11 years
A surgeon provides diagnostic, pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care for medical patients. This category includes plastic surgeons, cardiac surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, and other doctors who have received extra training in specific types of surgeries.
In rural areas, general surgeons are often required to treat everything from orthopedic issues to organ transplants. Wherever they practice, a surgeon's scope can include inpatient, outpatient, and emergency procedures.
Surgeons in Canada make an average of $432,495 each year, but certain specialties within the field offer salaries much higher than this. Some provinces pay more than others, too.
A specialist medical career requires a lot of schooling and will likely require significant student loans. At the very least, you'll need to spend 2 years pursuing an undergraduate degree, then 4 years of med school, and a 5-year residency period.
You'll also need certifications and licenses from various governing bodies before applying for the many, many job opportunities available across Canada.
2. Clinical and medical laboratory specialists
- Salary range: $61,125 – $609,702
- Average salary: $317,746
- Educational requirement: 9 to 12 years
Specialists are trained health professionals with comprehensive knowledge of a specific medical issue. This category includes psychiatrists, anesthesiologists, rehab specialists, and more.
The average specialist in Canada earns an annual salary of $317,746. In some areas, particularly Ontario and British Columbia, salaries are much higher than this.
Psychiatrists spend many years in academic training. It requires at least 9 years of education, including an undergraduate degree, medical training, and residency. Anesthesiologists need 11 years of schooling, including a minimum 5-year residency with significant experience in the field. Cardiologists need 12 years to reach top salaries.
3. General practitioners and family physicians
- Salary range: $69,539 – $497,843
- Average salary: $269,446
- Educational requirement: 8 years
A physician is a doctor. Although this is a term used to describe many different specialties, we're going to focus on general practitioners/family physicians here. General practitioner physicians are those who diagnose and treat health conditions and diseases for the general public, rather than specializing in a specific area of medicine.
GPs earn an average salary of $269,446. However, current job listings show openings across the country with salaries ranging from $300,000 to $350,00 and even higher.
Despite not having a designated specialty, these doctors are still required to participate in an extensive educational program. They spend about 2 years pursuing an undergraduate degree, then 4 years of medical school, and a minimum of 2 years in a residency program.
At the time of writing, these professionals are in high demand across Canada as the country deals with a significant healthcare crisis.
4. Judges
- Salary range: $247,546 – $420,700
- Average salary: $346,850
- Educational requirement: 15+ years
As a judge, you'll oversee court proceedings, make legal rulings, and ensure that justice is administered fairly and impartially. You'll interpret laws, assess evidence, and deliver verdicts or judgments in criminal, civil, or family cases. Your expertise is crucial for upholding the rule of law and maintaining public confidence in the judicial system.
The average annual salary for a judge in Canada is approximately $346,850. Salaries vary based on the level of the court, jurisdiction, and experience. Judges in higher courts, such as the Supreme Court, will earn more, while those in provincial or territorial courts might earn less.
To become a highly-paid judge, you’ll first need a long and distinguished career in law in order to earn an appointment. You'll need a law degree (JD or LLB) and membership with a provincial or territorial law society. Most judges have significant experience as lawyers, often with a minimum of 10 to 15 years.
5. Dentists and orthodontists
- Salary range: $32,400 – $332,000
- Average salary: $129,423
- Educational requirement: 6 to 8 years
In Canada, a dentist is an expert on oral health who diagnoses and treats medical issues related to a patient's teeth, gums, and mouth. They also do corrective, reconstructive, restoration, cosmetic, and certain surgical dental procedures.
Plus, dentists often participate in public education on maintaining oral health. Orthodontists receive extra training on addressing jaw and teeth misalignment.
The average dentist in Canada earns about $129,423 per year. However, specialists working in provinces with a high cost-of-living can earn much more.
Dentistry is a form of medical work, so expect to spend approximately 6 years in university, with at least 2 years in an undergraduate program plus 4-6 more in dental school.
6. Senior managers
- Salary range: $62,400 – $299,998
- Average salary: $182,083
- Educational requirement: 10 years
As a senior manager or a CEO, you are responsible for leading an organization's strategic direction, managing operations, and driving business growth. You will oversee company policies, set performance goals, and represent the organization in public and industry engagements.
The average annual salary for a senior manager or CEO in Canada is approximately $182,083, though wages are typically paid hourly and vary between industries and companies. Bonuses and stock options are common compensation components for CEOs.
To become a senior manager or CEO, get a bachelor's or master's degree in business administration, management, or a related field. Many executives have extensive experience in their industry, often starting in lower management roles and advancing through performance and networking.
7. Engineering managers
- Salary range: $101,005 – $230,006
- Average salary: $141,294
- Educational requirement: 5 years
As an engineering manager, your job involves leading engineering projects, managing teams of engineers, and ensuring that design and development activities meet technical standards and deadlines. You'll coordinate project plans, oversee budgets, and collaborate with other departments to drive innovation and achieve company objectives.
While most engineering manager positions pay hourly, the average annual salary works out to be $141,294. This is not a starting salary, as you’ll have to work up and move into a management position. High-demand sectors like aerospace, energy, and technology offer complex projects and lucrative opportunities.
Becoming an engineering manager typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering and a professional engineering (P.Eng.) designation.
Professional certifications such as PMP or ITIL can enhance your career prospects.
8. Utilities managers
- Salary range: $44,574 – $230,006
- Average salary: $128,502
- Educational requirement: 6+ years
As a utilities manager, your role involves overseeing the operations of public utilities such as water, electricity, gas, or telecommunications. You may manage budgets, coordinate maintenance, ensure regulatory compliance, and lead teams to deliver reliable services to consumers.
This job is critical for maintaining infrastructure and meeting community needs.
The average annual salary for a utilities manager in Canada is about $128,502, though most of these managers are pay hourly wages. Positions in larger urban centers or specialized utilities frequently offer higher pay.
To enter this field, you’ll need a relevant bachelor's degree in something like engineering, business administration, or a related discipline. To become a manager, extensive experience in utility operations and management is needed.
9. Petroleum engineers
- Salary range: $34,424 – $215,925
- Average salary: $128,700
- Educational requirement: 4 years plus significant work experience
A petroleum engineer studies, explores, and develops the means for extracting oil and gas, along with planning, designing, and supervising the accompanying drilling, testing, and running of oil and gas wells. They are typically employed by petroleum companies, consulting agencies, and research institutions.
The average salary for a petroleum engineer is $128,700, or an hourly rate of $61.88. Of course, most higher-paying jobs will require significant work experience.
To get started in this field, you'll need to spend at least 4 years pursuing a bachelor's degree with a major in petroleum engineering or a related field such as mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering. The level of your education and on-the-job experience will determine your individual salary.
10. Computer and information systems managers
- Salary range: $51,002 – $213,325
- Average salary: $137,498
- Educational requirement: 3 to 5 years
As a computer and information systems manager, your role involves overseeing IT projects, managing teams, and ensuring that technology infrastructure aligns with organizational goals. You'll coordinate the development, implementation, and maintenance of computer systems and software, focusing on optimizing performance and security.
The average annual salary for a computer and information systems manager in Canada is around $137,498, although most jobs we researched in this are pay hourly wages. These wages are highest in technology-driven industries and larger corporations.
Entering this field generally requires a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related discipline. As you gain more experience in IT roles, you can move into management positions. Project management training is essential, and many managers have backgrounds in software development, network administration, or systems analysis.
Highest-paying jobs in Canada without a degree
You can earn 6-figure salaries in Canada without a bachelor’s degree. Here are 5 of the highest-paying jobs in Canada you can get without a university degree:
1. Airline pilot
- Salary range: $41,600 – $264,451
- Average salary: $120,640
- Educational requirement: 1.5 to 4 years
As an airline pilot, your job involves operating and navigating aircraft safely while ensuring the comfort and well-being of passengers and crew. You'll complete pre-flight planning, check equipment, communicate with air traffic control, and manage flight operations.
While usually paid an hourly wage, the average annual salary for an airline pilot in Canada works out to $120,640. Specific salaries depend on your experience level and airline type, and top-paying opportunities require significant flight hours and advanced certifications.
University isn't necessary, but entering this field typically does require extensive training, including earning a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). While it’s not required, many pilots hold a bachelor's degree in aviation or a related field, credentials which can enhance career prospects.
2. Air traffic controller
- Salary range: $75,883 – $225,896
- Average salary: $121,046
- Educational requirement: 2 to 3 years
As an air traffic controller, you ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft within the controlled airspace. You'll monitor and direct aircraft on the ground and in the air, manage air traffic flow, and communicate with pilots to provide critical instructions.
The average annual salary for an air traffic controller in Canada is approximately $121,046, typically paid as hourly wages. The profession offers lucrative opportunities, particularly in busy airports in metropolitan centers. Expect to grow your starting salary enormously with overtime.
Becoming an air traffic controller requires specialized training and certification from NAV CANADA, the country's air navigation service provider. It typically takes several years to gain full qualifications.
3. Car dealer
- Salary range: $32,448 – $199,992
- Average salary: $100,797
- Educational requirement: N/A
This category includes retail and wholesale trade managers.
As a car dealer, you will sell new or used vehicles to customers and manage the sales process from start to finish. This involves negotiating prices, arranging financing, and handling paperwork. You’ll have to meet sales targets in the automotive industry.
The average annual salary for a car dealer in Canada is around $100,797, paid as hourly wages, plus opportunities for commissions and bonuses.
Entering this field typically requires just a high school diploma, but having a post-secondary education in business, marketing, or automotive technology could be advantageous. Sales experience and excellent interpersonal skills are key to succeeding in this profession. Many dealers start as sales representatives and advance to managerial positions with experience.
4. Police officer
- Salary range: $49,067 – $142,605
- Average salary: $92,862
- Educational requirement: 3 months to 3 years
As a police officer, your role is to enforce laws, maintain public order, and protect citizens within the community. You'll conduct patrols, respond to emergencies, investigate crimes, and engage with community members to promote safety and security.
Typically paid hourly, the average annual salary for a police officer in Canada calculates to about $92,862. Salaries vary by rank, location, and experience with specialized units earning even more.
Becoming a police officer requires completing police academy training, which includes physical fitness assessments, legal education, and practical skills development. Successful candidates must pass background checks, medical examinations, and psychological evaluations.
5. Pipefitter
- Salary range: $35,360 – $125,424
- Average salary: $90,719
- Educational requirement: 2 - 5 years
As a pipefitter, you assemble, install, and maintain piping systems used for heating, cooling, and transporting fluids or gases. You could work in various settings, including construction sites, factories, and residential buildings, using blueprints and technical drawings to guide your installations.
The average annual salary for a pipefitter in Canada, while usually paid hourly, ends up being approximately $90,719. Rates depend on experience, location, and union affiliation. Overtime and specialized projects can significantly boost earnings.
To become a pipefitter, you’ll need to complete an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. You may need a Red Seal endorsement, allowing for interprovincial work mobility. A high school diploma with courses in math and science is helpful to earn an apprenticeship.
What jobs are in demand in Canada
Here are some of the most in-demand roles and growing industries in Canada, according to job listing sites and labour outlook reports from Statistics Canada:
- Registered Nurse (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Truck driver
- Machine operators
- Materials handlers
- Welder
- Veterinarian
- Pharmacist
- Manufacturing
- Accountant
- Sales and service
Remember that in-demand jobs do not necessarily pay the highest wages, however.
FAQ
What's the highest-paying job in Canada?
The highest-paying job in Canada is held by healthcare specialists such as plastic surgeons and clinical specialists. They earn an average of $317,746 to $346,850 per year after qualifying and establishing their careers.
What are the highest-paying government jobs in Canada?
"Chief Innovation Officer" is the highest-paid government job in Canada with a salary of approximately $278,000. A government vice president earns a median of $212,500 and a government physician earns an average $256,500.
What are the highest-paying medical jobs in Canada?
Surgeons and specialists earn more than family doctors. For instance, a plastic surgeon earns an average of $423,500 and a specialist in surgery (like a cardiac surgeon) earns an average of $432,500, according to the Canadian Job Bank.
What are the highest-paying tech jobs in Canada?
Software developers, IT systems managers, and cloud architects are among the highest-paying tech jobs in Canada. While typically paid hourly, these occupations pay average salaries of $91,700, $137,500, and $117,500, respectively.
What are the highest-paying jobs in Canada without a degree?
In Canada, some of the highest-paying jobs without a degree are airline pilots, air traffic controllers, police officers, and pipefitters. The average salaries for these roles range from $90,719 to $121,046 per year.
What are the highest-paying jobs in Ontario?
Some of the highest-paying jobs in Ontario are similar to the highest-paying jobs in Canada. Medical professionals and senior managers make the list, as do dentists and government managers. These salaries range from $129,400 to $432,5005.
What jobs pay $300k a year in Canada?
Some account executives, data engineers, judges, and medical professionals are earning $300k per year in Canada. Surgical specialists earn an average of $432,500 per year while judges earn an annual average of $346,800.
How do I get a high-paying job in Canada?
Earn an advanced degree to get a high-paying job in Canada, as many require education in computer science, engineering, or medical training. Then, specialize in a niche or become a manager in order to command the highest possible rates.
Which career makes the most money?
A medical or technology-based career will likely be what earns you the most money, particularly if you pursue a medical specialty. Occupations like air traffic controller and pipefitting also pay well, without the need for a post-secondary degree.
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