Snow Removal Worker Jobs in Canada
Category: Seasonal Outdoor & Facilities Support · Typical gross pay: 20–32 CAD/hour · Typical locations: Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba
Hiring snapshot
Snow removal work is a winter-season role focused on keeping sidewalks, entrances, and work areas safe and accessible. Many employers run on-call crews: you may start early, work during active snowfall, and finish with cleanup and de-icing. The exact setup depends on the site (residential vs commercial) and local weather patterns.
What you’ll do (day-to-day)
During snowfall
- Clear sidewalks, entrances, ramps, steps, and walkways using shovel/scraper (and snowblower where available).
- Apply salt/sand/de-icer to reduce slip hazards.
- Maintain safe access routes for residents, customers, and staff.
- Communicate hazards (ice buildup, blocked exits, low visibility) to the site lead.
After the storm
- Final cleanup: widen paths, clear corners, remove packed snow and ice ridges.
- Re-check high-risk areas (stairs, loading zones, building entrances).
- Basic maintenance of tools (shovels, spreaders, snowblower checks if assigned).
- Dispose of waste/debris per site rules and keep storage areas organized.
Some employers also have roles for drivers or equipment operators. If you operate vehicles/equipment, licensing and training requirements may apply.
Requirements & documents (Canada)
Must-have
- Reliability: you can show up on short notice during snow events.
- Comfort working outdoors in cold temperatures and low-light conditions.
- Basic communication in English (A2+ preferred for safety and coordination).
- Physical ability for repetitive lifting, shoveling, and walking on uneven/icy surfaces.
Nice-to-have
- Experience with snowblowers, spreaders, or site maintenance work.
- Valid driver’s license (helpful for crews that move between sites).
- Workplace safety awareness (slips/trips/falls, traffic zones, PPE use).
Work authorization basics (general)
- Legal eligibility to work in Canada as required by law and employer policy.
- Work permit type may be employer-specific or open depending on your status.
- Employers may request identity documents and, for certain sites, basic background checks.
Document and screening requirements vary by province, site type, and employer policy.
Working conditions (what to expect)
Snow removal is weather-driven. You may work short shifts in light snowfall and longer shifts during storms. Many teams prioritize critical areas first (exits, ramps, entrances) and return later for final cleanup.
- Sites: residential complexes, retail plazas, office buildings, and public-facing entrances (varies).
- Tools/PPE: shovel, ice scraper, spreader; warm layers, high-visibility gear, waterproof boots and gloves.
- Travel: some crews are assigned to one site; others move between sites during events.
- Safety: slips/trips/falls prevention, safe lifting, awareness around vehicles and plows.
- Deductions: standard payroll deductions apply as required by law (details depend on status and payroll setup).
Hiring story (why employers staff up fast)
In Canadian winters, a single overnight snowfall can turn “normal operations” into a safety and access issue by morning. That is why employers often build standby crews: they need people who can respond quickly, clear priority areas first, and keep conditions under control as snow accumulates.
Candidates who succeed in this role are usually not the ones who shovel the fastest for 10 minutes. They are the ones who can keep a steady pace for hours, follow a plan, and maintain safe, consistent results across multiple areas.
How to apply (CV required)
- Create or upload your CV: mavial.pl/en/cv.html
- Add your winter availability, preferred province/city, and any relevant experience (maintenance, landscaping, labor).
- List equipment experience (snowblower/spreader) and licensing (driver’s license) if applicable.
- Submit your application — we contact shortlisted candidates.
Pay ranges are indicative and shown as gross hourly rates. Final terms depend on province, overtime rules, site type, and employer policy.
Other Canada openings (internal links)
Browse additional roles while applying (internal pages).
FAQ
Is a CV required?
Yes. Candidates without a CV are not considered. Use mavial.pl/en/cv.html.
Is snow removal seasonal in Canada?
In most cases, yes. Hiring demand is highest during the winter season and around major snow events.
Do I need a driver’s license?
Not always. A driver’s license is often helpful for crews moving between sites, but some roles are site-based and do not require driving.
What affects the hourly rate?
Province, experience, union vs non-union setup, overtime/call-outs, site complexity, and whether you operate equipment.
What are typical locations for this role?
Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba (exact sites vary by employer and season).