Statistics Canada will hire 32,000 temporary workers nationwide for the 2026 Census, offering pay of up to $31.32 per hour. See roles and eligibility
Canada to Hire 32,000 Temporary Workers for 2026 Census, Pay Up to $31.32 per Hour
Statistics Canada has announced plans to recruit about 32,000 temporary workers nationwide ahead of the 2026 Population Census, offering hourly wages of up to $31.32, depending on the role.
The national statistics agency disclosed that the mass recruitment forms part of preparations for the census scheduled to take place in May 2026, a key exercise used to guide government planning and public policy across the country.
According to Statistics Canada, the data collected during the census supports decision-making in critical areas such as healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and social services, making the exercise central to national development.
Who Can Apply
The census jobs are open to individuals who:
- Are legally adults in their province or territory
- Are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, or
Hold a valid Canadian work permit and reside in Canada with a Canadian home address
Available Roles
The recruitment includes both supervisory and non-supervisory positions, with work schedules and employment periods varying by role and location. Most positions involve direct, in-person engagement with households, rather than office-based duties.
Fieldwork is expected to take place largely during evenings and weekends.
Available roles include:
- Crew Leaders
- Crew Leader Assistants
- Field Operations Supervisor Assistants
- Collection Support Unit Operators
- Enumerators
Statistics Canada noted that the majority of openings are for enumerators and crew leaders, making them the most common roles applicants are likely to be assigned.
Job Responsibilities
Enumerators are responsible for collecting census data by visiting households, following up on non-responses, and interacting directly with residents. These roles typically involve 20 to 40 hours of work per week, running from May to July 2026.
Crew Leaders, who supervise enumerators and coordinate field operations, work about 40 hours per week from March to July 2026, including weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Pay and Benefits
Hourly pay rates for the main roles are:
- Enumerators: $25.87 per hour
- Crew Leaders: $31.32 per hour
In addition to wages, workers may be eligible to claim authorized work-related expenses, depending on their assignment.
Because census work is community-based and often requires travel within assigned areas, eligible expenses may include mileage and parking costs. Statistics Canada explained that employees are compensated for kilometres driven, helping to offset transportation costs linked to door-to-door data collection.
Hiring Process
Applicants must pass several stages, including:
- Initial screening
- Reference checks
- Interviews (for crew leader roles)
- Security screening
Statistics Canada emphasized that only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the Census Jobs portal. The recruitment window runs from Statistics Canada will hire 32,000 temporary workers nationwide for the 2026 Census, offering pay of up to $31.32 per hour. See roles and eligibility with hiring continuing throughout this period. Timelines vary by location, and the agency advises interested applicants to apply early to improve their chances of being matched with a role. Read More
