Ontario has a diverse and thriving job market across multiple industries. With major economic hubs like Toronto, Ottawa, and Waterloo, there is a constant need for talented, qualified professionals. However, not all high-demand jobs also come with high pay.
Searching for a career that checks both boxes – being in demand and offering a high salary – takes some digging. Certain fields like tech, finance, healthcare, and skilled trades include roles that meet these criteria. But you need the right education, training, and expertise to qualify and command top dollar per hour.
This article will explain everything you need to know about the top 10 high-value and highly sought-after jobs in Ontario. Are you looking to start a new career or enter a more lucrative role? These in-demand, high-paying occupations can help you make a good decision.
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We’ll examine projected growth, overall open positions, average hourly rates, and required qualifications. Read on to find out what careers made the list.
Jobs In Ontario That Pay More Than $30 Per Hour.
1. Software Developer
Hourly Rate: $39.73
Job Openings: 13,000+
Job Growth by 2028: +21%
With Ontario’s massive and growing tech sector, it’s no surprise that software developers take the top spot for high-demand, high-pay jobs. These professionals design, build, and improve software applications, programs, networks, and systems. Skilled developers are indispensable as more companies go digital and rely on complex technology.
The hourly pay reflects this demand, averaging almost $40/hour in Ontario. And with over 13,000 current job openings plus 21% projected growth by 2028, this field keeps expanding. Major tech hubs in cities like Toronto and Waterloo are in high demand.
To become a software developer, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, software engineering, or a related field. Fluency in languages like Java, Python, SQL, and JavaScript is essential. Experience with software tools like Git and Tableau is also valued. With the right technical expertise, this lucrative tech career offers huge potential.
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2. Registered Nurse
Hourly Rate: $37.67
Job Openings: 18,000+
Job Growth by 2028: +9%
Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and advise and emotionally support patients and their family members. They often work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities.
With Ontario’s rapidly ageing population, the demand for qualified RNs continues to rise. Nurses in the province earn an excellent hourly rate of $37.67 on average. And with over 18,000 current openings and 9% more growth expected, job prospects are bright.
Becoming an RN requires completing a diploma or bachelor’s degree program in nursing, including supervised clinical training. You must also pass the Canadian Registered Nurse Exam and become licensed with a provincial regulatory body like the College of Nurses of Ontario. With the right training, RNs enjoy rewarding work with impressive pay.
3. Finance Manager
Hourly Rate: $46.83
Job Openings: 1,300+
Job Growth by 2028: +10%
Ontario’s banking, investment, and corporate sectors are highly seeking professionals with financial expertise. Finance managers plan, direct, and coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities.
With an average hourly salary of $46.83, finance managers are well-compensated for their skills. Current open positions exceed 1,300+, with a projected 10% growth in demand by 2028 as more businesses expand operations.
A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or economics is standard for finance managers. A master’s degree can provide an extra edge. Most positions also require 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in a finance or accounting role. Certifications like a CPA or CFA also demonstrate expertise.
4. Human Resources Manager
Hourly Rate: $36.06
Job Openings: 900+
Job Growth by 2028: +9%
HR managers are integral in attracting, supporting, and retaining top talent at organizations of all sizes and industries. Responsibilities range from talent acquisition and compensation to employee development, relations, and labour law compliance.
With constantly evolving workplace practices and labour regulations, experienced HR pros who can enhance company culture are in high demand. They earn excellent compensation in Ontario, with hourly rates averaging $36.06. Current openings exceed 900, and future growth is projected at 9% by 2028.
A bachelor’s degree focused in human resources, business administration, social science, or psychology is standard preparation for becoming an HR manager. At least five years of related HR experience is also preferred. Certifications like a SHRM-CP or PHR help demonstrate specialized expertise in this dynamic field.
5. Construction Manager
Hourly Rate: $39.42
Job Openings: 1,900+
Job Growth by 2028: +12%
Construction managers handle complex projects in the residential, commercial, and civil sectors. Their duties range from planning, budgeting, and supervising timelines to procuring materials, compliance, and client relations.
These professionals earn an impressive $39.42 per hour on average in Ontario. Current job openings exceed 1,900, and demand is projected to grow 12% through 2028 amid continued infrastructure expansion. Major metropolitan hubs have especially high demand.
A bachelor’s degree in construction science, building science, or construction management is ideal preparation to become a construction manager. Extensive construction experience across multiple roles like supervisor, contractor, or tradesperson is also valued. Voluntary certifications like the LEED AP can demonstrate green building expertise.
6. Occupational Therapist
Hourly Rate: $34.25
Job Openings: 600+
Job Growth by 2028: +20%
Occupational therapists (OTs) work with patients of all ages who have injuries, illnesses, disabilities, or developmental challenges. They aim to develop, recover, and maintain skills for daily living and working using exercises, activities, and adaptive techniques.
These healthcare professionals earn an average hourly wage of $34.25 in Ontario. Current openings exceed 600, and substantial growth of 20% is expected by 2028 as demand for rehabilitation services rises. Most OTs work in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and community settings.
A master’s degree in occupational therapy and completion of fieldwork and clinical rotations are required. To be licensed, therapists must pass the national certification exam administered by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists. With proper training, OTs find fulfilling clinical and community-based roles.
7. Psychologist
Hourly Rate: $43.74
Job Openings: 400+
Job Growth by 2028: +18%
Psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat patients coping with mental illnesses, addictions, emotional disturbances, behavioural issues, and cognitive impairment. Clinical practice, research, and teaching make up their core responsibilities.
As demand for mental health services grows, experienced psychologists continue commanding top dollar with hourly rates averaging $43.74 in Ontario. Open positions currently exceed 400, with a projected 18% growth by 2028.
Earning a PhD, PsyD, or EdD in psychology and an accredited internship are the minimum requirements for clinical practice. Provincial standards also require completing a year of supervised work. Psychologists must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and obtain licensure. Extensive clinical expertise is vital for top earning potential.
8. Physical Therapist
Hourly Rate: $33.34
Job Openings: 1,100+
Job Growth by 2028: +16%
Physical therapists or PTs work to restore mobility and reduce pain for patients suffering from injuries, disabilities, illnesses, or chronic conditions. Their goal is to improve strength, balance, flexibility, and overall well-being using exercises, hands-on techniques, and treatments.
Demand for PTs in Ontario continues to rise, so many current openings exist. Hourly wages also remain robust, averaging $33.34. Positions should expand by 16% by 2028 amid population ageing and healthcare needs.
A master’s or doctoral degree in physical therapy is required, with courses in science, anatomy, biomechanics, and kinesiology. Clinical education, state licensing, and passing Canada’s national physiotherapy exam are also required. PTs can work in various settings, such as hospitals, private practices, and nursing homes.
9. Pediatrician
Hourly Rate: $76.92
Job Openings: 200+
Job Growth by 2028: +10%
Pediatricians provide medical care for infants, children, and adolescents. They specialize in managing growth and development, preventing illnesses, and diagnosing and treating chronic or complex conditions, disorders, and injuries within their young patient population.
With advanced expertise in pediatric medicine, these physicians earn excellent compensation in Ontario, with rates averaging $76.92 per hour. Current openings exceed 200, and demand is projected to increase by 10% by 2028.
Becoming a paediatrician involves an undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, and a three-year pediatric residency program. Doctors must then pass two North American medical licensing exams. With seven years of postgraduate training, paediatricians gain invaluable clinical experience and specialized qualifications.
10. Dentist
Hourly Rate: $83.65
Job Openings: 460+
Job Growth by 2028: +7%
Dentists provide many services to promote optimum oral health, from preventative dental care to complex oral treatments and surgeries. General and specialized dentists are well-paid, with average hourly earnings of $83.65 in Ontario.
Open positions currently exceed 460, and demand is projected to grow 7% through 2028. Several factors drive this steady demand: population growth, insurance coverage, and rising awareness of dental care’s importance.
Becoming a dentist involves an undergraduate degree followed by 4 years at an accredited dental school. Graduates must then pass written and practical national board exams for licensure. Post-graduate residencies provide specialized training. Beyond clinical work, dentists manage staff and business operations.
Conclusion
This breakdown of top in-demand, highly paid jobs provides helpful insights for planning your career path in Ontario. While the qualifications vary, these occupations reflect fields where specialized skills and training result in excellent compensation and job prospects.
Whether you pursue further education, seek additional certifications, or acquire the right mix of experience, investing in your professional growth can pay off with lucrative and secure jobs.
