Kitchen Prep – Factory Jobs in Canada
Sector: Agriculture & Food Processing · Typical gross pay: CAD $17.50–$26.50/hour · Common locations: British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador
Gross pay = before tax and statutory deductions. Actual rates depend on province, shift premiums, overtime rules, and experience.
Snapshot
Hiring story
Many food plants run like a clock: prep tables feed portioning, portioning feeds packaging, and packaging feeds outbound pallets. Kitchen Prep – Factory roles sit early in that chain—clean, consistent prep that keeps the line moving without compromising safety.
Typical gross pay range (what drives it)
- Entry-level: often close to provincial minimums or low-end market rates (training provided on site).
- Experienced: higher rates for strong pace, accuracy, and food-safety discipline.
- Shift premiums/overtime: may apply depending on site schedule and provincial rules.
| Province | Low (CAD/h) | Median (CAD/h) | High (CAD/h) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | 17.40 | 19.00 | 24.52 | Comparable “labourers – food & beverage processing” wage snapshot. |
| Ontario | 17.60 | — | 26.57 | Comparable “production worker – food & beverage processing” wage snapshot. |
| Nova Scotia | 16.50 | 20.00 | 24.00 | Comparable “food processing labourer” wage snapshot. |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | Varies by site | Rates typically align with provincial standards and local market conditions. | ||
Pay is indicative and shown in gross terms. Actual pay depends on role scope, plant complexity, province, overtime, and employer policy.
What you’ll do (day-to-day)
Factory/plant food prep — structured, repeatable, safety-first
Production-line prep tasks
- Wash, trim, portion, and stage ingredients to spec (weights, counts, labeling where required).
- Set up prep stations (tools, containers, liners) and keep the work surface audit-ready.
- Support batching/assembly steps (basic mixing, packing, sealing) under line supervision.
- Move prepared items to the next process step while maintaining cold-chain rules when applicable.
Food safety & sanitation responsibilities
- Follow hygiene procedures (handwashing, gloves, hair/beard coverings) and site rules.
- Clean-as-you-go: wipe-downs, safe disposal, and scheduled sanitation tasks.
- Report issues fast (temperature deviations, damaged packaging, cross-contact risks).
- Use PPE as required (cut-resistant gloves, aprons, safety shoes, hearing protection, etc.).
Requirements & documents (Canada)
General guidance — specifics depend on employer and province
Skills & experience
- Basic English for workplace communication (labels, instructions, safety briefings).
- Reliability, punctuality, and comfort with repetitive tasks.
- Ability to work standing for long periods; lifting requirements vary by site.
- Food safety awareness is a plus; on-site training is common.
Nice to have
- Food Handler certification (where applicable).
- Prior experience in food processing, packaging, or warehouse environments.
- Experience in temperature-controlled areas (chilled rooms) and strict hygiene zones.
Work authorization (high level)
- You must be legally authorized to work in Canada (per employer policy and law).
- Work permits can be employer-specific or open (terms used generally; conditions vary).
- Some sites may require background checks or additional onboarding documents.
Candidate portrait
Be honest with yourself — it saves time
You are a good fit if you…
- prefer clear instructions and repeatable routines over constant change.
- can keep a steady pace without cutting corners on hygiene.
- are comfortable with standing, repetitive motions, and line timing.
- stay calm in busy periods and communicate issues early.
- respect PPE rules and understand why they exist.
- can work shifts when needed (days/evenings/nights depend on site).
This role is not for you if you…
- dislike repetitive work or struggle with consistent pace.
- regularly ignore sanitation steps “to save time”.
- cannot follow safety procedures or PPE requirements.
- need a job with fully predictable hours every week.
Work conditions (what to expect)
Neutral, realistic overview — depends on project/location
Schedule & overtime
- Common schedules include fixed shifts or rotating shifts; weekends may be required.
- Overtime and premium rates depend on province and employer policy.
- Breaks, meal periods, and shift start procedures are typically structured and enforced.
Environment
- Temperature may range from ambient to chilled areas depending on product.
- Noise levels can be higher near machinery; hearing protection may be required.
- High standards for cleanliness, cross-contact control, and waste handling.
Tools, PPE, and safety
- Basic tools may be provided; personal safety shoes are commonly required.
- PPE can include gloves, sleeves, aprons, hair/beard nets, and eye/ear protection.
- Safety briefings and documented procedures are standard.
Related roles in Agriculture & Food Processing
Internal links to similar vacancies
FAQ
Is this a restaurant job?
No. This page targets factory/plant food-prep work—prep and staging for production lines, packaging, and sanitation routines.
Is a CV required?
Yes. Candidates without a CV are not considered. Use mavial.pl/en/cv.html.
Do I need a Food Handler certificate?
It can help, but requirements vary. Many sites provide onboarding training and verify hygiene procedures internally.
What affects the hourly rate?
Province, role scope, pace/accuracy, shift premiums, and overtime rules. Gross pay ranges are indicative and depend on employer policy.
Can I apply if I am outside Canada?
You can apply, but you must be legally eligible to work in Canada according to employer policy and applicable rules. Shortlisted candidates are contacted.