Jobs in Canada That Don’t Require Background Checks (2026 List)

For over 4 million Canadians with a criminal record, the job search is a nightmare. You apply, you interview well, and then the dreaded question comes: "Will you consent to a background check?"

Here is the reality: Large corporations, banks, and government agencies always check. They have strict HR policies.

But Small Businesses and Trade Industries often do not. They care about one thing: Can you do the job today?

In 2026, the labour shortage is your advantage. If you are reliable, sober, and hardworking, many employers in the "Blue Collar" sector will look the other way—or never ask in the first place.

Here are the best career paths for a fresh start.

1. Construction & Trades (Residential)

This is the #1 industry for second chances.

• The Reality: While a massive company like PCL might check, a local framing contractor or roofer almost never will. They need bodies.
• The Job: Drywall, Roofing, Painting, or General Labour.
• The Pay: $20 – $30 per hour.
• How to get it: Go to the Pro Desk at Home Depot or look for "Cash Jobs" on Kijiji.
• Internal Link: Learn how to find these crews in our Construction Labourer Guide.

2. Kitchen Staff (Dishwasher / Line Cook)

The restaurant industry is famous for its "don't ask, don't tell" culture.

• The Reality: Chefs don't care about your past; they care if you can handle the Friday night rush.
• The Job: Dishwasher, Prep Cook, or Line Cook.
• The Pay: $17 – $22 per hour + Tips (Kitchen staff often get a "tip out").
• The Benefit: Many restaurants also offer free meals, which helps you save money.
• Internal Link: Check out Dishwasher Jobs with Accommodation if you are willing to relocate.

3. Lumper / Mover (Heavy Lifting)

If you are physically strong, you will always be hired.

• The Job: Unloading shipping containers (Lumping) or moving furniture for residential clients.
• The Reality: Moving companies have huge turnover. If you show up with steel-toe boots and strong arms, you are hired.
• The Pay: $20 – $25 per hour (plus cash tips from customers).
• Internal Link: Read our guide on How to Become a Lumper.

4. Waste Management (Private Sector)

Garbage collection is dirty, hard work, and turnover is high.

• The Job: Loading the back of the truck ("Throwing").
• The Reality: Municipal (City) jobs will check your record. Private contractors (small disposal firms) are much more lenient.
• The Pay: $22 – $26 per hour.
• Internal Link: See our breakdown of Garbage Collector Jobs.

5. Film Industry (Labour / Grip)

"Hollywood North" is full of eccentric characters. A record is rarely a barrier for technical crews.

• The Job: Production Assistant, Grip (Lighting setup), or Set Construction.
• The Reality: It is gig work. You are hired for the project. As long as you are safe and professional on set, your history is private.
• The Pay: $25 – $35 per hour.

3. The "Self-Employment" Route

If you can't find a boss who trusts you, be your own boss.

• Snow Removal / Landscaping: You don't need a background check to shovel a driveway or cut a lawn. You get paid cash by the homeowner.
• Flyer Delivery: Independent contractors for companies like Metroland often don't face the same scrutiny as Canada Post employees.
• Internal Link: Learn about Snow Removal Cash Jobs.

Comparison Table: Check Probability by Industry

Practical Questions Answered

"Does Uber/DoorDash check?"

YES.

Do not waste your time applying if you have a recent criminal record.

• The Check: They use a third-party service (like Triton) to scan your criminal history and driving abstract annually. If something pops up, you are deactivated immediately.

"What about a Record Suspension (Pardon)?"

Get one if you can.

• The Cost: It costs about $657 to apply for a Record Suspension in Canada.
• The Result: Once granted, your record is sealed. You can honestly check "No" on job applications, and you can apply for bonded jobs (like Security).

"Can I work in the Oil Sands?"

Maybe.

• The Trap: To get to some "Dry Camps" (alcohol-free sites), you need a Pre-Access Drug & Alcohol Test. They care more about drugs than your criminal history. However, some sites require a "clearance" depending on the client (e.g., Imperial Oil). Stick to smaller service companies first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I become a Truck Driver with a record?

Yes, but domestic only.

You can get your AZ license and drive within Canada. However, you likely cannot cross the border into the USA. The US Border guards have access to RCMP databases and will deny entry to almost anyone with a criminal record. Stick to "Canada-Only" routes.

Do temp agencies run checks?

It depends on the assignment.

If the agency sends you to a bank, yes. If they send you to a recycling plant or construction site, usually no. Be honest with your recruiter: "I have a past issue, please only send me to sites that don't require a check." They appreciate the honesty because it saves them money on running the check.

Is it legal to ask about my record?

In most provinces, yes.

Employers are allowed to ask. However, human rights codes in some provinces (like BC and Quebec) offer some protection against discrimination based on a criminal record if the offense is unrelated to the job (e.g., a DUI shouldn't stop you from being a cook).

About the researcher

Jeff Calixte (MC Yow-Z) is a Canadian career researcher and digital entrepreneur. He tracks real-time labour market data, government hiring trends, and entry-level opportunities to help newcomers and students navigate the Canadian job market.

Data Sources & References

• John Howard Society (Employment Support): https://johnhoward.ca/
• Parole Board of Canada (Record Suspensions): https://www.canada.ca/en/parole-board.html
• Canadian Human Rights Commission: https://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/

Note:

Job availability, wages, and hiring conditions can vary widely by province, employer, season, and experience level. All salary ranges and job examples in this guide are estimates based on current labour market data. Always confirm details directly with the employer before applying.