How to become a trades helper or labourer
Official title: Other trades helpers and labourers
Also called: Diver helper, Mechanic helper, Surveyor helper, Lineworker helper, Millwright helper, Rig mechanic helper, Cable splicer helper, Engine fitter helper, Lineman/woman helper, Mill mechanic helper, Cable repairer helper, Cableman/woman helper
Other trades helpers and labourers assist skilled tradespersons and perform labouring activities in the installation, maintenance and repair of industrial machinery, refrigeration, heating and air conditioning equipment, in the maintenance and repair of transportation and heavy equipment, in the installation and repair of telecommunication and power cables and in other repair and service work settings. They are employed by a wide variety of manufacturing, utility and service companies.
Main tasks
- Move tools, equipment and other materials to and from work areas
- Assist in splicing overhead and underground communications and electric power transmission cables
- Assist in repairing, maintaining and installing industrial machinery and equipment
- Assist in repairing, maintaining and installing refrigeration, heating and air conditioning equipment
- Assist in repairing, maintaining and installing elevators
- Assist in repairing and maintaining stationary electric power generating and distribution equipment
- Assist in mechanical, electrical and body repairs of aircraft, railway cars, automobiles, trucks, buses, heavy equipment and motorcycles
- Assist in repairing electrical appliances, small engines or other similar equipment
How to become one
Some secondary school education may be required. On-the-job training is provided.
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $46,800 a year The middle half earn $39,000 to $57,369.
- About 7,300 people worked in this job in 2023, and about 7,500 are projected by 2033. (+2.7%)
- Projected labour market to 2033: balance.
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Questions people ask
How do I become a trades helper or labourer?
Some secondary school education may be required. On-the-job training is provided.
How much does a trades helper or labourer earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $46,800 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)). The middle half earn $39,000 to $57,369.
Is a trades helper or labourer a growing career in Canada?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 3% by 2033, from about 7,300 to about 7,500 people (Employment and Social Development Canada).
Do you need a degree to become a trades helper or labourer?
Usually not. Only 5% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) (2024 to 2033), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03