Canada is undoubtedly the number one destination for migrants all over the world. Each year, thousands of people troop into its borders to create a better life for themselves. While there are many pathways to get a visa to Canada, this article will specifically dive into the skilled worker visa route and show you how you can get an employer-sponsored visa to work as a Janitor in Canada.
In Canada, the janitorial sector involves cleaning windows and interior spaces of various buildings and transportation equipment. Cleaning companies in Canada maintain office spaces, ensuring they remain tidy and presentable for employees and visitors. Shopping malls, retail stores, and commercial centers also require regular cleaning to create a pleasant shopping environment.
From factories to warehouses, and other industrial facilities, the list of organizations that benefit from janitorial services to maintain cleanliness and safety is practically endless. Hospitals, clinics, and medical offices equally rely on specialized cleaning services to meet hygiene standards. Schools, colleges, and universities are also not left out as they too need janitorial services to keep classrooms, libraries, and common areas clean.
The work of janitors is so essential that even municipal offices, government agencies, and public institutions also fall within this industry’s scope. With all this, it comes as no surprise that employers are willing to scout all over the world for the best janitors to join their organization.
Janitorial Job Description & Eligibility Requirements in Vancouver, Canada
A janitor in Canada primarily takes care of a building’s general upkeep. Their responsibilities include
- Cleaning Floors: Janitors sweep, mop, and vacuum floors to maintain cleanliness.
- Restroom Maintenance: They clean and stock restrooms, ensuring hygiene standards are met.
- Trash Removal: Janitors take out trash and collect recycling materials.
- Minor Repairs: They perform minor repairs, such as changing light bulbs or unclogging toilets.
- Security Measures: Ensuring doors are locked after hours to maintain building security.
- Outdoor Tasks: Janitors may also mow lawns, water plants, and remove litter from the premises.
These essential staff members play a crucial role in maintaining a professional and welcoming environment for both employees and visitors in public buildings.
Required Qualifications
When considering a janitorial job in Canada, here are the typical qualifications and skills that hiring managers look for:
1. Education: A high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED) is usually sufficient. While formal higher education is not mandatory, having a diploma can be beneficial.
2. Industry Experience: Experience with cleaning and maintenance is valuable. If you’ve worked in similar roles, it can open up more opportunities. Many organizations also offer on-the-job training to ensure janitors are familiar with specific requirements and standards of the facility.
3. Specific Skills and Abilities:
- Basic knowledge of cleaning supplies and chemicals: Janitors should be comfortable working with various cleaning agents.
- Ability to read, write, and speak proficiently in English: Effective communication is essential.
- Customer service skills: Providing excellent service to building occupants.
- Harmonious teamwork: Working well with others.
- Basic knowledge of WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System): Understanding how to handle hazardous materials safely.
4. Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift at least 25 pounds: Janitors often handle equipment and supplies.
- Basic math skills: Useful for measuring cleaning agents or calculating quantities.
- Able to work safely with cleaning supplies: Understanding safety protocols.
- Able to use basic cleaning equipment: Familiarity with tools like vacuums, floor buffers, and lawnmowers.
It is important to note that while formal education is not a strict requirement, practical experience and a willingness to learn are essential for success in a janitorial role.
Employer-Sponsored Visa for Janitors in Vancouver, Canada
Employer-sponsored visas in Canada are a pathway for skilled foreign workers to live and work in the country. These visas allow employers to support their permanent residency applications. Employers can hire skilled foreign workers through the Express Entry system when they cannot find qualified Canadians or permanent residents to fill specific jobs. By participating in Express Entry, employers play a direct role in recruiting skilled workers.
To be eligible for an employer-sponsored visa, the job offer must meet the criteria of one of the following economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Offers jobs in NOC (National Occupational Classification) skill levels 0, 1, 2, or 3 (such as management, professional, scientific, technical, or trade occupations). The position must be full-time (at least 30 hours per week) and non-seasonal.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Requires an eligible skilled trade or technical occupation (NOC skill levels 2 or 3). The job must be full-time and last at least one year.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Requires a NOC skill level 0, 1, 2, or 3 position (similar to FSWP). The foreign worker must have at least 12 months of full-time skilled work experience in Canada within the 36 months prior to applying for permanent residence.
Employers benefit from hiring skilled workers through Express Entry because it allows them to address labor shortages directly. Supporting a foreign worker’s permanent residency application ensures continuity and stability in the workforce.
To begin the process, employers must first make a job offer to a foreign worker based on the eligibility criteria. The worker then applies for permanent residence through the appropriate immigration program. If approved, the worker becomes a permanent resident of Canada.
Creating an Express Entry Profile
Creating an Express Entry profile is the first step if you want to immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1- Visit the IRCC Website: Go to the [official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html.
2- Create a MyGC Account: If you don’t already have one, create a MyGC account. This account provides secure access to government services.
3- Navigate to Express Entry: Click on “Immigrate & Stay in Canada” and select “Express Entry.”
4- Choose Your Program: You’ll need to choose one of the following programs.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with experience in NOC skill levels 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): If you have at least 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Targeting skilled tradespeople with eligible occupations (NOC skill levels 2 or 3).
5- Start Your Express Entry Profile: Begin filling out your profile by providing accurate and complete information. Review each section carefully to ensure accuracy and pay the application fee when prompted. After completing all the steps, you can then submit your profile.
Remember that creating an Express Entry profile doesn’t guarantee an invitation to apply for permanent residence. However, it’s an essential step toward achieving your goal of immigrating to Canada as a skilled professional.