Ottawa is the capital city of Canada which offers a wide range of job opportunities across various sectors. Order picker jobs in Ottawa are an ideal option for immigrants looking to start a stable career in the city’s logistics and warehouse sectors.
With competitive pay of $18 per hour, order picker roles provide an excellent opportunity for foreign workers to earn a good wage while gaining valuable experience in Canada’s growing retail and distribution industries.
WHAT DOES AN ORDER PICKER DO?
Order pickers are responsible for gathering and preparing products in warehouses for shipment. They use a variety of tools and equipment, including forklifts and order picking systems, to efficiently retrieve items from shelves and ensure they are ready for delivery.
Key Responsibilities of an Order Picker:
- Order Selection: Use order picking systems (such as handheld devices or RF scanners) to locate and select items based on customer orders
- Packing and Staging: Pack the selected items into boxes or containers, ensuring that they are securely packed and ready for shipping.
- Inventory Management: Help maintain accurate stock levels by regularly checking inventory and assisting with restocking shelves.
- Operating Equipment: Safely operate equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, or order picking lifts to retrieve and move products.
- Ensuring Accuracy: Double-check orders to ensure that the correct items are picked and packed for shipping, minimizing errors.
- Safety Compliance: Follow warehouse safety protocols, including the proper use of equipment and protective gear, to prevent accidents.
Order pickers play a vital role in the efficiency of warehouse operations, ensuring that goods are properly stored and ready for timely delivery.
Salary Expectations for Order Picker Jobs in Ottawa
Order pickers in Ottawa typically earn $18 per hour, which translates to $37,440 per year for full-time work (assuming 40 hours per week). The salary may vary depending on factors such as experience, the specific employer, and the type of warehouse or industry.
Additional benefits for order pickers in Ottawa may include:
- Health Insurance: Many employers offer health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.
- Retirement Contributions: Employers may contribute to pension plans or RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plans).
- Overtime Pay: Order pickers may earn overtime pay, especially during peak shipping periods.
- Training Opportunities: Many employers offer training programs to help order pickers develop skills for advanced positions, such as forklift operation or inventory management.
VISA SPONSORSHIP FOR IMMIGRANTS IN OTTAWA
For foreign workers, securing visa sponsorship is essential to work legally in Canada. Fortunately, many employers in Ottawa offer sponsorship for foreign workers seeking warehouse and logistics roles, including order picker jobs.
Visa Options for Foreign Order Pickers:
- Temporary Work Permit (LMIA-based)
One of the most common routes for foreign workers to obtain a job in Canada is through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-based work permit. The LMIA process requires employers to demonstrate that no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available for the role. Once the LMIA is approved, workers can apply for a work permit to work in Ottawa. - Skilled Worker Visa (Express Entry Program)
For foreign workers with the right skills and experience, the Express Entry system offers a pathway to permanent residency in Canada. The Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry are ideal pathways for immigrants with warehouse or logistics experience, including order pickers. - Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The TFWP allows employers in Ottawa to hire foreign workers temporarily for positions in industries experiencing labor shortages. This program is useful for foreign order pickers looking to work in Canada on a temporary basis, with the potential to transition to permanent residency. - International Mobility Program (IMP)
The IMP allows certain workers from specific countries to apply for a work permit without requiring an LMIA. Some employers may hire foreign workers under this program for in-demand roles, including order picker jobs.
How to Apply for Order Picker Jobs in Ottawa with Visa Sponsorship
- SEARCH FOR JOB LISTINGS:
Look for order picker job openings in Ottawa that offer visa sponsorship. Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Job Bank frequently list job opportunities for foreign workers in the warehouse and logistics industries. - UPDATE YOUR RESUME:
Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in warehouse operations, inventory management, and order fulfillment. If you have experience using order picking systems, forklifts, or other equipment, be sure to include that information as well. - PREPARE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
Make sure you have all necessary documents for your visa application, including proof of work experience, references, educational qualifications, and language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL). Employers may also require a police clearance certificate. - SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION:
Apply directly to employers offering order picker positions with visa sponsorship. Customize your resume and cover letter to match the specific job requirements and show your interest in relocating to Ottawa. - PREPARE FOR INTERVIEWS:
If selected for an interview, be prepared to discuss your previous experience, your knowledge of safety protocols, and your ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Employers will be looking for candidates who can handle physical tasks and work as part of a team. - VISA APPLICATION:
Once you secure a job offer, your employer will assist you with the visa application process. This may involve submitting documents to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and attending a medical exam or interview if required.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR ORDER PICKER JOBS IN OTTAWA
To be eligible for order picker jobs in Ottawa with visa sponsorship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Experience:
- At least 1 year of experience in warehouse operations, inventory management, or a similar role. Experience using order picking equipment is highly preferred.
- Language Proficiency:
- Proficiency in English is required. Proof of language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL) may be necessary to meet visa requirements.
- Visa Requirements:
- You must have a valid work visa to work in Ottawa. Employers will guide you through the visa process once you receive a job offer.
- Health and Safety:
- You must meet Canadian health and safety standards, which may include a medical exam and police clearance as part of the visa process.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. HOW MUCH DO ORDER PICKERS EARN IN OTTAWA?
Order pickers in Ottawa typically earn $18 per hour, which is around $37,440 annually for full-time work.
2. CAN I APPLY FOR AN ORDER PICKER JOB IN OTTAWA IF I’M AN IMMIGRANT?
Yes, many employers in Ottawa offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers in order picker positions.
3. DO I NEED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE TO APPLY FOR AN ORDER PICKER JOB?
Experience in warehouse work or order fulfillment is preferred, but some employers may offer on-the-job training for entry-level applicants.
4. HOW DO I APPLY FOR A WORK VISA TO WORK IN OTTAWA?
Once you secure a job offer, your employer will help you apply for a work visa. Most workers apply for the LMIA-based work permit or Express Entry for permanent residency.
5. CAN MY FAMILY JOIN ME IN CANADA IF I GET A WORK VISA?
Yes, your spouse and children can apply to join you in Canada under the same visa sponsorship.
Conclusion
Order picker jobs in Ottawa offer an excellent opportunity to earn $18 per hour while working in one of Canada’s most beautiful cities. With visa sponsorship available for qualified foreign workers, these positions provide a clear pathway to live and work in Ottawa’s thriving logistics and distribution industries.
Start your job search today by applying for positions, preparing your resume, and securing the necessary visa. Ottawa is a great place to build a career, and there are plenty of opportunities available for skilled workers like you!
