Key Takeaways
- The next Census of Population will be conducted in May 2026, and Statistics Canada is hiring approximately 32,000 jobs across the country.
- Eligible candidates include Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and work permit holders who meet specific requirements.
- Available positions include enumerators and crew leaders, with varying responsibilities and hourly wages.
- Certain roles may be eligible for counting towards Canadian Experience Class (CEC) work requirements.
- The Canadian census is a nationwide survey that collects information about people, families, and dwellings to inform policy and program design.
Introduction to the 2026 Census
The next Census of Population is scheduled to take place in May 2026, and Statistics Canada is gearing up for the massive undertaking by hiring approximately 32,000 individuals across the country. This presents a unique opportunity for those looking for temporary work, including work permit holders who may be eligible for consideration for various supervisory and non-supervisory roles. The hiring process for associated roles will begin between March and July 2026, with some positions potentially counting towards Canadian Experience Class (CEC) work requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for a census job, individuals must meet specific requirements. These include being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or possessing a valid work permit, as well as living in Canada with a Canadian home address. Additionally, applicants must have reached the age of majority in their current province or territory, which varies between 18 and 19 years old depending on the region. If these requirements are met, individuals can submit an online application, which takes less than 10 minutes to complete, and provide references from two individuals who have supervised or are familiar with their work.
Available Positions and Responsibilities
Statistics Canada is hiring for two primary roles: enumerators and crew leaders. Enumerators will be responsible for collecting census information through door-to-door visits, working at least 20 hours per week, primarily in the evenings and on weekends, from May to July 2026. Crew leaders, on the other hand, will manage a team of enumerators, coordinate questionnaire collection activities, and work 40 hours per week, including days, evenings, and weekends, from March to July 2026. Both positions offer hourly wages, with enumerators earning $25.87 per hour and crew leaders earning $31.32 per hour. Authorized expenses, such as mileage and parking, can be claimed, and selected individuals must attend mandatory training, for which they will be paid.
Counting Hours towards CEC Work Requirements
For work to be counted under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program, it must meet specific requirements, including being paid, gained while working in Canada under a valid temporary resident status, and falling under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3. While enumerators are classified as TEER 4 and therefore do not qualify, crew leaders may be able to count their work hours towards CEC requirements, as their role falls under NOC 12113. However, the limited duration of the employment means it will not independently satisfy the one-year requirement, but it can serve as a top-up alongside other qualifying Canadian work.
The Canadian Census
The Canadian census is a nationwide survey conducted every five years to collect information about people, families, and dwellings across the country. The purpose of the census is to provide a detailed statistical portrait of Canada, which informs policy and program design in core areas such as education, healthcare, public transportation, housing, and community planning. Participation in the census is legally required, and all Canadian households must complete a short-form demographic-based questionnaire and a long-form questionnaire that includes topics such as place of birth, ethnic or cultural origins, and labour. The information collected during the census is essential for shaping the country’s future and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively.