Best Jobs in Toronto for Beginners (No Degree Needed 2026)

If you live in Toronto, you know the struggle: The Rent is Too High.

With the average one-bedroom apartment costing over $2,400, a minimum wage job ($17.20/hr) simply isn't enough to live comfortably. You need to earn at least $25.00 per hour to keep your head above water.

The good news? Toronto is the economic capital of Canada. Unlike smaller towns, we have massive industries—Tech, Film, Finance, and Transit—that are desperate for workers.

You do not need a degree from UofT to access these sectors. You just need to know which door to knock on.

Here are the best high-paying jobs in Toronto for 2026 that don't require a university diploma.

1. TTC Special Constable (The "Golden Ticket")

This is arguably the best "No Degree" job in the entire city.

• The Job: You are a sworn peace officer for the transit system. You enforce laws, patrol subways, and assist passengers.
• Why it fits: It pays incredibly well and offers the famous TTC pension. Unlike becoming a Police Officer (which is extremely competitive), the TTC hires more frequently.
• The Pay: $36.00 – $46.00 per hour.
• Requirements: Grade 12 Diploma, clean criminal record, and a valid G License.
• Related: If this is too intense, apply for TTC Operator (Bus Driver) which starts at $29/hr.

2. Tech Sales (SDR) in the Financial District

• The Job: "Sales Development Representative." You work for a software company (like Salesforce, HubSpot, or a local startup). Your job is to call companies and book meetings for the senior sales team.
• Why it fits: Toronto is the "Silicon Valley of the North." Tech companies care about your hustle, not your biology degree. If you are fearless on the phone, you are hired.
• The Pay: $50,000 Base + Commission = $75,000+ First Year.
• Where to look: LinkedIn. Search for companies near King & Spadina or Liberty Village.

3. Film Production Assistant (Hollywood North)

• The Job: Toronto is the 3rd largest film city in North America. PAs block traffic, guard trailers, and run errands for directors.
• Why it fits: It is exciting. One day you are in Cabbagetown filming The Handmaid’s Tale, the next you are at Pinewood Studios.
• The Pay: $250 – $300 per day (DGC Rate).
• How to Start: You need to take the "DGC Ontario Entry Level Course." Once you are on the list, you get daily calls for work.

4. High-Rise Construction Labourer

• The Job: Building the endless condos you see on the skyline.
• Why it fits: Toronto never stops building. The demand for concrete workers, framers, and crane signalers is infinite.
• The Pay: $30 – $40 per hour (LiUNA Local 183 rates).
• The Catch: It is brutal work. You are working outside in -20°C winds off Lake Ontario. But the paycheck justifies the pain.
• Related: If you are interested in this, read our Traffic Control Guide.

5. Luxury Concierge (Yorkville / Waterfront)

• The Job: Sitting at the front desk of a high-end condo (e.g., The Shangri-La, The Well, or Ritz-Carlton Residences).
• Why it fits: Unlike a regular security guard, "Concierge" roles in luxury buildings require polish and customer service. You handle packages for millionaires.
• The Pay: $20 – $26 per hour.
• Why it’s great: It is indoor, safe, and often very quiet at night (perfect for students).
• Related: See our Security License Guide.

6. Real Estate Admin / Listing Coordinator

• The Job: Helping a busy Realtor manage their paperwork. You upload listings to MLS, book photographers, and put up "For Sale" signs.
• Why it fits: Toronto has over 60,000 Real Estate Agents. The top 10% are too busy to do admin work. They need help.
• The Pay: $22 – $28 per hour.
• Bonus: It is the best way to learn the real estate market if you want to become an agent later.

7. Airport Ground Crew (Pearson / Billy Bishop)

• The Job: Ramp Agent (loading bags) or Gate Agent for Air Canada or Porter.
• Why it fits: The pay is average ($19–$22/hr), but the Flight Benefits are insane. You can fly to Europe or Japan for nearly free (just paying taxes).
• Who is it for: People who love travel more than money.
• Location: Commuting to Pearson (YYZ) is far, but Billy Bishop (YTZ) is right downtown.

Comparison Table: Commute vs. Pay

Practical Questions Answered

"Is $25/hour enough for Toronto?"

Barely.

• The Math: $25/hr = $3,500/month (after tax). If rent is $2,200, you have $1,300 left for food, phone, and transit. It is "survivable," but you probably need roommates. To live alone in Toronto, you realistically need **$35+/hr**.

"How do I get a Tech Sales job with no experience?"

The "Video Pitch" Method.

• The Hack: Don't send a resume. Record a 60-second video of yourself pitching yourself to the Hiring Manager. Send it to them on LinkedIn. It proves you have the guts to do sales.

"Do I need a car for Film?"

Yes.

• The Reality: Call times are often 5:00 AM, and locations can be in weird spots like a field in Markham. Public transit doesn't run that early or go that far. A car is almost mandatory for film crew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work for the City of Toronto?

Yes.

The City hires thousands of "Recreation Workers" (Camp Counselors, Rink Guards) and "Waste Collectors." Check the City of Toronto Jobs portal every Thursday (when new jobs are posted).

Is English required for Construction?

Basic English is needed for safety.

However, Toronto construction is very Italian, Portuguese, and Caribbean friendly. You will often find crews that speak your language.

What about Uber in Toronto?

It is oversaturated.

Traffic in Toronto is among the worst in the world. Being stuck on the Gardiner Expressway for 1 hour makes your hourly wage drop to $8/hr. We recommend e-bike delivery downtown over car delivery.

About the author

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.

Sources

• TTC Careers: https://www.ttc.ca/jobs
• City of Toronto Employment: https://jobs.toronto.ca/
• DGC Ontario (Film): https://www.dgc.ca/en/ontario/
• LiUNA Local 183: https://liuna183.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.