Looking for an entry-level job in Canada? Major employers like Amazon, Canadian Tire, and Purolator regularly hire for warehouse and general labour positions across the country. These roles are competitive, and success depends on applying directly through their official career channels.
Who is hiring and why these roles open up
Large retailers and logistics companies in Canada, such as Amazon, Canadian Tire, Walmart Canada, Purolator, and Canada Post, operate extensive networks of distribution centres, fulfillment centres, and sorting facilities. These operations are essential for moving goods across the country, from online orders to retail store replenishment.
The constant flow of goods, seasonal peaks (like holidays), and regular employee turnover mean these companies frequently have openings for entry-level staff. They often seek individuals to help manage inventory, process shipments, and ensure timely delivery.
Entry-level roles to look for
- Warehouse associates / order pickers: Responsible for locating and picking items from warehouse shelves to fulfill customer orders.
- Parcel sorters & general labour: Involves sorting packages by destination, loading/unloading trucks, and general facility maintenance tasks.
- Shipping / receiving assistants: Helps with the movement of goods into and out of the warehouse, verifying shipments, and organizing stock.
- Forklift operators (with certification): Operates forklifts to move heavy materials and pallets within the warehouse, requiring valid certification.
- Seasonal & part-time warehouse staff: Temporary or reduced-hours roles, often available during peak demand periods.
What you need to apply
- You must be legally entitled to work in Canada and possess a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
- Applicants are usually required to be 18 years of age or older.
- You should be capable of performing physical tasks, including standing for long periods and lifting packages, often up to 50 pounds.
- Many roles are entry-level, meaning no previous experience is required, and on-the-job training is provided.
- For specific roles like forklift operator, relevant certification is mandatory.
Pay and what these jobs offer
Canadian warehouse and general-labour roles typically advertise about C$17–C$23 an hour, at or above the provincial minimum wage, with shift premiums. Exact pay is confirmed only in the official offer.
Beyond the hourly wage, these positions often provide steady work hours, valuable on-the-job training, and opportunities for career advancement within the company. Many employers offer benefits packages for full-time staff after a probationary period.
How to apply, step by step
Applying for these roles is straightforward and should always be done directly through the employer’s official career portals.
- Prepare your resume/CV: Even for entry-level roles, a concise resume highlighting any work experience, volunteer roles, or relevant skills is beneficial. Focus on reliability, teamwork, and physical capability.
- Visit the official career site: For Amazon, navigate to Amazon’s official Canadian hourly hiring site. This is where you will find current openings and submit your application.
- Search for roles: Use keywords like “warehouse associate,” “general labour,” “order picker,” or “forklift operator” and filter by your desired location.
- Complete the application: Fill out the online application form accurately. Be prepared to answer questions about your availability, work history, and eligibility.
- Apply to other employers: For Canadian Tire, search their official careers website (careers.canadiantire.ca). For Purolator, visit purolator.com/careers. Walmart Canada and Canada Post also have dedicated career sections on their official websites for you to explore.
Tips to stand out
- Tailor your resume: Customize your resume slightly for each application, highlighting skills and experiences most relevant to the job description.
- List contactable references: Have professional references ready, as they may be requested during the hiring process.
- Be flexible with shifts: Indicating availability for various shifts (days, evenings, nights, weekends) can increase your chances, especially for 24/7 operations.
- Apply to several employers: These are competitive roles. Applying to multiple companies and positions increases your opportunities.
- Follow up politely: If you haven’t heard back within a reasonable timeframe, a polite follow-up email or call (if contact information is provided) can show your continued interest.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to apply?
Yes, applying for legitimate jobs through official company career portals is always free. You should never pay a fee to apply for a job.
Can I apply with no experience?
Absolutely. Many warehouse and general labour roles are entry-level and designed for individuals with no prior experience. Employers often provide all necessary training.
How will they contact me?
Employers typically contact applicants via email or phone. Ensure your contact information is accurate and that you regularly check your email, including spam folders.
What if I need accommodations?
Employers are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If you require accommodation during the application process, look for information on their career site or contact their HR department.
Are there other similar entry-level jobs?
Yes, many industries have similar entry-level roles. For example, if you’re interested in caregiving, you might find our guide on Canada Caregiver & Personal Support Worker Jobs: How to Apply helpful.
Watch out for job scams
Be extremely cautious of any job offer that asks you to pay money. Real employers will never ask for fees for registration, training, equipment, or background checks. Also, be wary of unsolicited job offers from “recruiters” who message you directly and promise guaranteed employment, especially for jobs you never applied for.
Always verify the legitimacy of the offer by checking the company’s official website and ensuring the communication comes from a legitimate company email address. If something feels suspicious, it likely is.
Your next step
Ready to start your job search? Begin by visiting the official career websites of Amazon, Canadian Tire, Purolator, Walmart Canada, and Canada Post. Search for current openings in your area and take the first step towards a new role.