Entry-level construction jobs in Toronto are among the most accessible physically demanding roles available, most general labourer positions require no prior construction experience and pay well above minimum wage. The companies below regularly hire site helpers, labourers, and cleaners for Toronto-area projects, from high-rise builds downtown to suburban residential developments.
Construction companies currently hiring entry-level workers in Toronto
Sourced from Indeed Canada and employer career pages as of June 4, 2026.
Drywall & framing subcontractors
Drywall Helper / Framing Labourer · Toronto, ON · Full-time
View openings →Concrete forming companies
Concrete Labourer / Form Setter Helper · Toronto, ON · Full-time
View openings →Local general contractors
General Labourer / Site Cleaner · Toronto & GTA, ON · Full-time
Browse all construction labourer jobs →What entry-level construction pays in Toronto
General labourers on Toronto construction sites typically earn $20–$28/hour, well above Ontario's general minimum wage of $17.60/hour as of October 2025. Concrete labourers and formwork helpers are at the higher end of this range due to the physical intensity of the work. Site cleaners and general helpers tend to start at $20–$22/hour.
Union trades pay significantly more, a unionized labourer affiliated with LIUNA (Labourers' International Union of North America) in Ontario earns substantially more than a non-union equivalent, often $30–$38/hour with full benefit coverage. Non-union work on smaller residential projects pays less but is more accessible without union membership. Large general contractors like EllisDon and PCL often offer defined benefit programs and structured career pathways from labourer to trade apprentice.
Safety certifications that open doors
Three low-cost certifications materially improve your chances of getting hired for construction labourer roles in Ontario:
- Working at Heights, Mandatory for anyone working at heights of 3 metres or more in Ontario. A one-day course runs approximately $100–$150 and is valid for 3 years.
- WHMIS 2015, Required at virtually every construction site in Ontario. Online courses are widely available for $20–$50 and take 2–4 hours.
- Standard First Aid & CPR, Strongly preferred by general contractors. A weekend course runs $100–$150 and is valid for 3 years.
All three combined cost under $400 and can be completed in a single weekend. Many Toronto general contractors will reimburse these costs after 90 days of employment, so check the job posting or ask during your interview.
How to find non-union construction work in Toronto
Non-union construction work is widely available in Toronto across residential renovations, smaller commercial builds, and subcontractor labour pools. Indeed Canada is the most active job board for construction labourer roles, search "general labourer construction Toronto" and set a 25 km radius to catch GTA opportunities.
Staffing agencies that specialize in construction labour, such as Tradesmen International, Procon Staffing, and Randstad's trades division, can place you quickly and often have ongoing relationships with mid-sized Toronto contractors. Once you've built site experience, many companies will hire you directly. For physical labour roles that aren't construction-specific, see our landscaping companies hiring in Toronto guide. Browse all current openings on CanuckHire.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to get a construction job in Toronto?
No experience is required for general labourer and site cleaner roles. Companies hire entry-level workers regularly, especially in the spring and summer when projects ramp up. Having a Working at Heights certificate and WHMIS training before you apply is a meaningful advantage.
How much do general labourers earn on construction sites in Toronto?
Non-union general labourers typically earn $20–$28/hour in Toronto. Union labourers affiliated with LIUNA earn $30–$38/hour plus benefits. The role type matters: concrete and formwork helpers are at the higher end; site cleaners typically start at $20–$22/hour.
What certifications do I need for a construction job in Toronto?
Working at Heights (mandatory for elevated work), WHMIS 2015, and Standard First Aid are the three most useful certifications. Combined they cost under $400 and can be completed in a weekend. Many Toronto contractors reimburse the cost after 90 days.
Is construction work in Toronto unionized?
It varies. Large general contractors like EllisDon and PCL work with union trade partners, but general labourers are not always required to be union members for entry-level roles. Smaller subcontractors and residential renovators are typically non-union.
What are the hours like for a construction labourer in Toronto?
Most Toronto construction sites start at 7am and work until 3:30pm or 4pm. Overtime is common during peak project phases. You'll typically work Monday through Friday, with occasional Saturday work on busy projects. The outdoor season runs year-round for most site work in Toronto.