Formwork Carpenter Jobs in Canada
Sector: Construction & Trades · Typical gross pay (guide): 22–44 CAD/hour · Typical locations: British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador
Role & scope (Formwork / Shuttering Carpenter)
A Formwork Carpenter (also called a Shuttering Carpenter or Concrete Formwork Carpenter) builds and installs temporary structures that shape concrete elements: walls, columns, beams, slabs, stairs, and foundations. The job is accuracy-driven: line, level, plumb, bracing, and safe stripping after the pour.
Typical gross hourly pay (market guide)
- Canada (overall guide): ~22.00–44.23 CAD/hour (gross)
- British Columbia: ~23.00–43.71 CAD/hour (gross)
- Ontario: ~22.00–48.00 CAD/hour (gross)
- Nova Scotia: ~18.00–35.00 CAD/hour (gross)
- Newfoundland and Labrador: ~20.00–39.27 CAD/hour (gross)
These ranges are for planning only. Actual pay depends on project type, union/non-union environment, overtime, shift premium, experience level, and productivity expectations.
Typical tasks you may perform
- Set out and measure formwork points from drawings/markers
- Build/assemble formwork panels, corners, and stops
- Install bracing, ties, anchors, and safe access routes
- Strip forms, clean, oil, and prepare for reuse
- Coordinate with rebar crews and pour schedule (practical sequencing)
Detailed requirements (what employers typically expect)
Formwork trade skills
- Reading drawings: dimensions, elevations, openings, concrete thickness, pour sequence
- Layout & accuracy: plumb, level, square; basic tolerances and re-checks
- Systems knowledge: timber, steel, modular/panel formwork (project-dependent)
- Structural thinking: bracing, load awareness, tie spacing, safe stripping sequence
- Quality habits: edge alignment, corner integrity, clean contact surfaces
Tools, materials, and on-site methods
- Hand and power tools: saws, drills, impact driver, nailer (role-dependent)
- Measuring and control: tape, laser/level, plumb bob, square, chalk line
- Fixings: ties, anchors, clamps, wedges, bolts, brackets, props
- Basic concrete coordination: access routes, pour timing, safe working distances
- Keeping forms clean: stripping, cleaning, oiling, and reuse preparation
Safety and reliability (non-negotiable)
- PPE discipline: helmet, boots, gloves, eye protection; site-specific additions
- Work at height readiness: safe ladder/scaffold practices; fall protection where required
- Housekeeping: keep walkways clear; manage trip hazards around rebar and materials
- Reliability: punctuality, steady output, and clear communication within the gang
Short candidate portrait (who fits this role)
You will likely do well if you
- Double-check line/level/plumb instead of “eyeballing”
- Understand bracing logic and do not skip stabilization steps
- Can work at pace while keeping geometry and safety consistent
- Communicate clearly with rebar and concrete teams on sequence
This role may be difficult if you
- Struggle with measurements or basic drawing interpretation
- Prefer low-physical-load work (formwork is physically demanding)
- Dislike early starts, changing site conditions, or weather exposure
Work conditions in Canada (practical overview)
Formwork carpentry is commonly delivered in a crew (“gang”) format, with productivity targets and strict safety routines. Work may be outdoors, including winter conditions depending on province and site schedule.
Schedule patterns you may see
- Full-time schedules are typical; start times are often early
- Overtime can occur during pours, deadlines, or high-activity phases
- Work rhythm depends on pour cycles: prep → install → pour support → strip
Common site expectations
- Daily safety briefings/toolbox talks (site-dependent)
- Keeping access routes safe around rebar, materials, and edge protection
- Clean stripping and reuse preparation to avoid delays
- Professional conduct: follow site rules and supervisor instructions
Conditions vary widely across provinces, employers, and union/non-union environments. Align expectations on schedule, overtime rules, travel, and accommodation (if any) before starting.
Work authorization & documents (Canada)
To work in Canada, candidates must have legal work authorization. Most foreign nationals require a work permit. Employers may hire candidates who already have an open work permit, or they may support an employer-specific route depending on the case.
Common authorization pathways (high-level)
- Employer-specific work permit: tied to one employer, role, and (sometimes) location
- Open work permit: allows work for most employers (eligibility depends on status/category)
- LMIA-based vs LMIA-exempt: the employer route can differ by program and eligibility
Final eligibility and documentation requirements depend on your citizenship, residence, and individual circumstances. Canadian authorities and employer policy make the final decision.
Documents commonly requested (practical checklist)
- Valid passport
- CV and proof of experience (references, work history)
- Certificates/training (trade/safety training if available)
- Clear scan copies for application steps (when required)
- Medical exam or police certificate may be required depending on the program/case
How to apply (CV is mandatory)
- Create or upload your CV: mavial.pl/en/cv.html
- List formwork scope: walls/columns/slabs/cores, timber vs modular systems
- Add safety training and your comfort with heights and outdoor work
- Submit your application — we contact shortlisted candidates
Pay ranges on this page are shown as gross (brutto) hourly rates for planning. Actual pay depends on employer policy, project type, overtime, premiums, and local conditions.
Related roles in Construction & Trades
Internal links to similar vacancies
FAQ
Is a CV required?
Yes. Candidates without a CV are not considered. Use mavial.pl/en/cv.html.
Is the pay shown gross or net?
All pay ranges on this page are shown as gross (brutto) hourly rates in CAD.
What affects pay the most?
Province, experience, union/non-union environment, overtime, and project complexity.