Line Chef

As per Employment and Social Development Canada, the federal minimum wage is $18.00 per hour effective January 1, 2026, applying to federally regulated employers including some airport restaurants. Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the regular rate after 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. Tips do not count toward minimum wage calculations.

Job Bank Canada reports that food and beverage servers (NOC 65200) earn $15.50 to $25.00 per hour, with a national median of $17.35 per hour in 2026. Annual full-time earnings range from $32,240 to $52,000 based on 40 hours per week. Wages are higher in urban areas like Toronto at median $18.50 per hour.

International applicants need an employer-specific work permit supported by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Low-wage positions pay at least CAD $18.00/hour provincially adjusted, with permits valid up to 2 years. Working Holiday visas under IEC allow up to 24 months for eligible youth aged 18-35 from 35 countries.

No formal education is required for entry-level cooks (NOC 63200), though completion of secondary school is preferred by 65% of employers. Less than 1 year of related experience or on-the-job training suffices for most positions. Red Seal certification is optional but recognized nationwide for skilled cooks.