Truck Driver Jobs in Canada: Guides on How to Apply with Free Visa Sponsorship
Truck drivers are increasingly in demand in Canada as they are needed to transport both finished goods and raw materials via trucks. It has been reported that Canada will need over 17,000 new truck drivers annually until 2025 to maintain equilibrium between supply and demand. If you love driving and extended periods on the road, a career as a truck driver awaits and you should seize this opportunity to advance in your career. If you are interested in truck driving jobs and also getting visa sponsorship, then this article is for you. Here, we will be showing you truck driving jobs in Canada and how you can apply with visa sponsorship.
About Truck Driving in Canada
The demand for skilled truck drivers remains constant as Canada relies on freight trucks for transportation of goods. Truck drivers shuttle between retail and distribution centers or manufacturing plants to ensure the transportation of products to the right places. The profession of truck driving is demanding, requiring these professionals to spend a lot of time on the road. Hence, despite having a flexible schedule, they may find themselves working at any hour of the day or night.
According to Trucking HR Canada (THRC), the total number of job openings in the trucking sector across the Canadian economy is projected to rise to 55,000 by 2024. Following the introduction of new NOC codes on November 16th, 2022, which included a tier code specifically for transport truck drivers, IRCC declared truck drivers eligible for the Canada Express Entry System. This provides an easier immigration pathway for those aspiring to become truck drivers and immigrate to Canada. Under the new system, the occupation class for truck drivers has transitioned from semi-skilled to skilled.
Key Responsibilities of a Truck Driver
– Operating and driving a truck between retail and distribution centers or manufacturing plants to transport goods and materials.
– Following driving instructions and using road maps to reach their destination.
– Conducting pre-inspections of the truck before commencing the journey.
– Loading and unloading cargo from various locations.
– Ensuring the accurate retrieval and delivery of products to their designated destinations.
– Maintaining the truck by performing tasks such as washing or undertaking minor repairs.
– Adhering to safe driving practices and regulatory guidelines.
Benefits of Truck Driving in Canada
1. High Demand
One notable advantage is the high demand for truck drivers nationwide. Since 2021, there has been a notable shortage of truck drivers, prompting companies to actively seek candidates to fill vacancies. According to Trucking HR Canada, it’s estimated that Canada will require over 17,000 additional truck drivers annually until 2025. This high demand is particularly pronounced in Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia, presenting lots of opportunities for aspiring truckers.
2. Reasonable Earnings
Trucking offers a considerable income in Canada. However, the national average wage for truckers varies based on factors such as province of employment, level of expertise, and chosen work hours. Moreover, there’s room for financial growth, with opportunities to boost earnings through overtime and additional shifts. As truckers gain experience, their earning potential increases, making it a financially rewarding career.
3. Flexibility
The flexibility of truck driving is another attractive reason for many prospective drivers. Whether delivering to local customers, transporting goods across the country, or even internationally, there are lots of job options with different schedules. Local driving may involve regular shifts of six to eight hours, five days a week, while long-haul transportation often follows a four-days-on, four-days-off schedule. This flexibility allows drivers to tailor their work hours and employment preferences to suit their lifestyles.
4. Independence in Decision-Making
Unlike roles with strict supervision, truck drivers enjoy reasonable independence in their work. With flexible job opportunities, drivers have the freedom to choose assignments that align with their schedules. They are entrusted with organizing their time and workload, offering a sense of independence rarely found in other professions.
Truck Drivers in Canada and Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship involves a Canadian agency supporting a foreign employee for a work permit. For truck drivers, some agencies are open to sponsoring visas for qualified overseas candidates. This sponsorship enables foreign truck drivers to obtain legal authorization to work in Canada and pursue their career in the country’s transportation sector.
Popular Immigration Pathways for Truck Drivers with Visa sponsorship
Canada offers several immigration pathways for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a truck driver. They include:
1. Non-Express Entry – Provincial Nomination Program (PNP)
Requirements for becoming a truck driver in Canada may vary by province. Usually, they include completing secondary education, showing necessary driving skills, and obtaining the required licensing. Since the program is province-specific, the likelihood of nomination under the PNP depends on the province’s current needs. Interested candidates should monitor job postings in provinces they are interested in and stay updated on their specific requirements to maximize their chances of selection.
Some provinces have dedicated programs to attract truckers, such as The Saskatchewan Long-Haul Truck Driver Project. This initiative targets candidates with a valid job offer from a Saskatchewan trucking company, provided they have been working for the same employer for at least six months on a valid work permit. Successful applicants under this program can obtain Canadian permanent residency.
2. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The TFWP allows Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals to fill labour shortages in provinces and territories. Holders of a TFWP receive temporary status and may have the opportunity to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency in the future. In certain cases, a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) may be required, which assesses the impact of hiring a foreign national in Canada. Moreover, spouses of skilled workers are eligible for work permits, easing their transition to life in Canada.
3. Express Entry
Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for skilled workers seeking Canadian permanent residency. It consists of three main federal economic programs:
– Federal Skilled Program
– Federal Skilled Trades Program
– Canadian Experience Class
Upon application, eligible candidates enter the Express Entry pool and are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on various factors such as education, language proficiency, and skills. Those with the highest CRS scores receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency.
Truck drivers have two options to apply for PNPs under Express Entry:
Option 1: Research job vacancies and province needs, then reach out to the desired province or territory for nomination under their Express Entry stream. If your skills match their requirements, they can nominate you. Afterwards, create an Express Entry profile to reflect your nomination, which will be processed electronically.
Option 2: Create an Express Entry profile indicating the preferred province or territory for nomination. Upon receiving a notification of interest, directly contact the province to apply to their stream.
Requirements For Truck Driving in Canada
Foreign individuals seeking to pursue truck driving jobs in Canada must first secure a job offer from a sponsoring company. After securing employment, they can apply for a work permit to legally work in the country. To qualify for truck driving roles in Canada, candidates need to meet the following requirements:
– High school diploma or GED.
– Completion of on-the-job training.
– Optional completion of a three-month certified driver training course at a trade school or community college.
– Possession of a Class 3 or D license for those intending to drive straight-body trucks.
– Possession of a Class 1 or A license for individuals planning to operate long combination vehicles.
– For drivers handling trucks with air brakes, an air brake endorsement is necessary.
– Drivers transporting hazardous materials or risky commodities may require additional endorsements or certifications.
Companies that Offer Truck Driving Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
1. Bison Transport
Bison Transport, headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, stands out as a well-managed and esteemed carrier in Canada. Operating from its base in Winnipeg, it has expanded its reach with terminals in key locations such as Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Alberta. The company caters to both singles and teams, offering opportunities to both company drivers and owner-operators. Bison Transport is renowned for its commitment to quality equipment and excellent treatment of its drivers, which is evident in its notably low turnover rate.
2. Challenger Motor Freight
Challenger Motor Freight, based in Cambridge, Ontario, boasts strong management and various services. With terminals spread across strategic locations including London (ON), Quebec, British Columbia, Chicago, and Long Beach (CA), the company offers various niches such as LTL, temperature-controlled, flatbed, and heavy haul. Notably, Challenger provides detailed insights into the average miles driven by each division on a weekly basis, along with offering some positions with hourly pay.
3. TFI International
TFI International, a publicly traded trucking company headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, has established itself as a major player in the industry with multiple yards spanning across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Known for its extensive job opportunities, TFI International offers a range of positions appealing to drivers seeking diverse experiences in the transportation sector.
4. Best Paid Trucking Jobs
With a remarkable legacy spanning 60 years, Best Paid Trucking Jobs is celebrated for its generous salary packages, attractive bonus programs, and benefits. The company’s commitment to treating drivers with fairness and respect is evident in its policies, which extend benefits to both company drivers and owner-operators.
5. Erb Group
The Erb Group, specializing in temperature-controlled shipments, is headquartered in New Hamburg, Ontario, and operates through ten terminals across Ontario, Manitoba, Quebec, and Pennsylvania. Noteworthy is the company’s flexible approach to scheduling, allowing drivers to dictate their reset periods and offering paid vacation time, reflecting a commitment to employee satisfaction and well-being.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Truck Driver in Canada 2024?
To pursue a career as a truck driver in Canada, most provinces require the completion of an accredited training program, lasting a minimum of three months. As of February 2020, prospective truck drivers are obligated to undergo 112 hours of training to obtain their Class A or Class 1 license, inclusive of the air brake endorsement. This training program is structured as follows:
Class A or Class 1 license: 103.5 hours
– 36.5 hours in classroom instruction
– 17 hours of practical training in a controlled environment
– 50 hours of on-road driving experience
Air brake endorsement: 8.5 hours
– 6.5 hours of classroom instruction
– 2 hours of practical training in a controlled environment
Average Salary of Truck Drivers in Canada 2024
Truck drivers in Canada are paid either on an hourly basis or according to the distance traveled. On average, they earn approximately 46,800 CAD annually or 24 CAD per hour. Entry-level positions often start at around 39,000 CAD, while more experienced drivers can make up to 60,450 CAD per year. However, the salary of a truck driver in Canada can be affected by several factors, majorly focusing on the driver’s qualifications:
1. Skill level or training
2. Level of work experience
3. Language proficiency in English and French
4. The province where you plan to work
Additionally, other factors such as the type of trucking, specialization within the industry, and the specific trucking company you apply to can also affect your salary as a truck driver in Canada.
How to Become a Truck Driver in Canada 2024?
1. Find a Job Offer
Securing a job offer in Canada is a compulsory requirement for most immigration pathways. Use online job portals, industry-specific websites, and networking to explore opportunities. Check LMIA requirements for job offers, as they may be necessary for many roles.
2. Choose an Immigration Pathway
Explore various immigration pathways available to truck drivers in Canada, such as the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and specific programs like the Atlantic Immigration Pilot and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Understand these pathways to select the most suitable route for immigration.
3. Gather and Submit Documents
Once an immigration pathway is chosen, gather and submit the required documents, including a valid passport, educational certificates, proof of work experience, language proficiency test results, job offer letter, and other supporting documents. Ensure all documents are accurate and meet immigration requirements.
4. Wait for Processing
After submitting the application, wait for processing, which varies depending on the chosen immigration pathway and other factors. Be patient during this period and avoid unnecessary follow-ups. Familiarize yourself with the province where you’ll work, as each offers unique opportunities for truck drivers.
5. Obtain Your Driver’s License
After your visa application has been processed and you are in Canada, ensure you possess a full driver’s license, like the G license in Ontario. Starting the licensing process early allows for gaining experience in standard vehicles before transitioning to trucks.
6. Enroll in Truck Driving School
Explore truck driving programs offered by colleges or specialized schools. Look for courses that combine theoretical instruction with practical training, covering driving laws, regulations, and hands-on experience with commercial vehicles. Ensure the chosen program is government-approved for license eligibility upon completion.
Conclusion
Canada’s demand for truck drivers is on the rise, driven by a need to fill gaps in the workforce due to a low population. Hence, the government is increasingly welcoming immigrants to address this demand and support the transportation industry. If you have been considering applying for a truck driving job, then we hope this article has been of help to you.
