Labor Costs & Productivity in Canada
What does manufacturing labor really cost in Canada? It depends on the total cost of each worker — wages plus non-wage costs — and on the output each worker delivers. Industry Economics & Competitiveness reports both, monthly, for Canada's manufacturing and construction sectors.
Canadian labor costs across chemical and manufacturing sectors increased from 2016 to 2021, with supervisory roles commanding the highest hourly wages. Chemical Plant Supervisors reached $49.19 per hour by 2021, up from $40.33 in 2016, while Chemical Plant Operators grew from $22.27 to $26.63 over the same period. Between 2020 and 2021, Construction Labor posted the largest year-over-year increase at $2.70 per hour, rising from $33.47 to $36.17, followed by Chemical Plant Supervisors at $3.38 per hour. Manufacturing Labor and Chemical Plant Operators showed more modest gains in the final year, increasing by $1.72 and $1.03 per hour respectively.
The figures shown are illustrative and represent a historical sample. For up-to-date monthly labor cost and productivity benchmarks in Canada — along with industrial costs and manufacturing competitiveness data across 33 countries — subscribe to Intratec Industry Economics & Competitiveness.
About the Labor Benchmarks. Each monthly release reports three categories of labor data for Canada: total employer cost (wages plus non-wage costs) for manufacturing and construction sectors, output per worker for the same sectors, and role-specific wages for chemical plant operators and supervisors at typical plant staffing levels. The same methodology produces comparable benchmarks for every country in the program, with a 10-year monthly history alongside the current values.
Beyond Labor Costs
Labor cost and productivity factors are part of the Industry Economics & Competitiveness subscription — a monthly program benchmarking commodities manufacturing competitiveness across 33 countries, including Canada.
33 Key Countries
Country-by-country monthly reports covering major industrial hubs — USA, China, Germany, Japan, Brazil, India, and more.
7 Industries Covered
Industry-specific rankings across olefins, aromatics, alcohols & organic acids, polymers, fertilizers, inorganic chemicals, and metals.
Reference Datasets
Country-level cost inputs for plant projects — labor costs, utility prices, construction indexes, and location factors.
Monthly Updates
Fresh data every month, always reflecting the most recent period available, with short-term forecasts on selected series.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Canada's Manufacturing Industry
Canada's economy is one of the most developed in the world, characterized by a strong industrial base, abundant natural resources, and a commitment to innovation and sustainability. The country boasts a highly diversified manufacturing sector, which plays a vital role in driving economic growth, employment, and export performance. Key industries in Canada include automotive, aerospace, machinery, chemicals, and natural resources, all contributing significantly to the nation's GDP.
The Canadian manufacturing sector is renowned for its advanced technology and high-quality production. The automotive industry, centered in Ontario, is one of the largest in North America, supported by a skilled workforce and close integration with U.S. markets. Canada's aerospace industry is also a global leader, known for its innovative aircraft and spacecraft production. Additionally, the country's natural resource sector, particularly in mining and energy, is a cornerstone of its economy, providing essential materials and energy to both domestic and international markets.
As Canada continues to embrace digital transformation and sustainability, its manufacturing industry remains central to the economy. The sector's focus on innovation and the development of green technologies will be key in ensuring Canada's position as a leading industrial and economic power on the global stage.