A realistic gross range for plumbers in Canada is 21–46 CAD/hour.
Entry-level and helper roles sit closer to the lower end; verified journeyperson skill sets move the range upward.
Gross (brutto) rates
Factors that change pay
Province & local labour market: demand differs by region and season.
Union vs. non-union settings: rates and rules may differ.
Scope: service work vs. new build vs. industrial maintenance.
Overtime & shift premiums: paid according to provincial rules and site policy.
Credential status: apprenticeship level, trade certification, Red Seal (where applicable).
Pay is indicative and shown as gross. Deductions depend on province, payroll setup, and personal circumstances.
Hiring context (short)
Plumbing demand often rises with renovation cycles, new residential builds, and commercial retrofit work. Employers typically prioritize safety,
reliability, and clean installation/testing practices.
What you will do (day-to-day tasks)
Read drawings/specs and plan rough-in routes for water, drainage, and venting systems.
Install, repair, and replace pipes, fittings, fixtures, valves, and related components.
Perform testing (pressure/leak checks), diagnose issues, and document completed work where required.
Coordinate with other trades to avoid clashes and keep schedules on track.
Keep work areas safe and tidy; follow site rules, lockout/tagout where applicable, and basic hazard controls.
Requirements (skills, experience, safety)
Core requirements
Practical plumbing experience (site or service) with consistent work quality.
Ability to measure, cut, assemble, and secure piping systems with attention to code-grade workmanship.
Basic English communication for site coordination and safety briefings (level depends on role).
Strong safety mindset: PPE usage, hazard awareness, and safe tool handling.
Certifications & trade licensing (Canada)
Trade certification: rules differ by province; some provinces require it for plumbers.
Red Seal: a strong advantage for mobility and employer confidence (where applicable).
First aid, WHMIS-style safety awareness, and equipment tickets can be requested per site policy.
Exact requirements depend on the employer, province, and whether the role is apprentice/helper vs. journeyperson.
Work authorization and documents (Canada)
You must be able to work legally in Canada. The applicable document type depends on your situation and the employer’s hiring pathway.
Work permit type: employer-specific (tied to a named employer) or open (eligibility-based).
Identity documents: valid passport and any supporting IDs required for onboarding.
Yes. Candidates without a CV are not considered. Create or upload your CV via mavial.pl/en/cv.html.
Is the pay shown gross (brutto) or net?
The range shown on this page is gross (brutto). Net pay depends on deductions and your individual circumstances.
Do I need Red Seal or provincial trade certification?
Requirements depend on province and role level. Trade certification rules vary across provinces; Red Seal is a strong advantage where applicable.
What documents are typically needed to work legally?
At minimum: valid identity documents and the appropriate work authorization for your situation (open or employer-specific). Some employers also request proof of trade experience and/or checks for specific sites.
What affects the hourly rate the most?
Province, union/non-union setting, experience level, scope (service vs construction), and overtime/shift premiums where applicable.