Leading Construction Companies and Job Roles Shaping Canada’s Industry in 2025

Overview of Construction Companies in Canada

Canada’s construction sector is vibrant and diverse, with major companies establishing extensive national footprints. These firms operate across buildings, civil infrastructure, industrial, and specialized project sectors. Many are recognized for their ambitious projects, adoption of new technologies, and ability to navigate economic challenges.

Profiles of Selected Construction Firms in Canada

• PCL ConstructionAs one of the country’s large construction firms, PCL reported revenues of approximately $11.3 billion in 2024. Employee-owned and operating across Canada and internationally, PCL’s portfolio includes buildings, civil works, industrial facilities, and special projects. They utilize technologies such as safety intelligence software HammerTech to enhance safety and efficiency. Recent project awards include a portfolio of nearly 270 projects valued collectively around USD 500 million.
• EllisDonOperating for over 70 years, EllisDon works across commercial, institutional, industrial, and residential construction sectors. Their project history includes facilities such as recreation complexes and hospitals. Notable 2024 contracts include work on a North Bay sports complex and hospital expansions in Etobicoke.
• Aecon GroupFounded in 1867, Aecon specializes in infrastructure, urban transportation, nuclear power, utilities, and industrial construction. Their work includes nuclear power plant development agreements and major utility-sector projects across Canada.
• Graham ConstructionOne of Canada’s older general contractors, Graham is involved in commercial, industrial, institutional, and infrastructure construction. They have expanded their footprint internationally with projects such as a USD 671 million joint venture for a children’s hospital in Belfast.
• Kiewit CanadaThis EPC firm covers civil, building, mining, and industrial construction sectors. Kiewit focuses on safety and innovative project management and was awarded a $133 million upgrade project at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in late 2024.
• Ledcor GroupDiversified across construction, mining, telecommunications, and renewable energy sectors, Ledcor undertakes large-scale projects including notable developments like a 225-storey rental tower planned for Vancouver.
• PomerleauQuebec-based and established in 1911, Pomerleau specializes in civil infrastructure, industrial facilities, and institutional buildings such as schools and hospitals. In 2024, their projects included Ontario’s Weeneebayko Area Health Authority redevelopment and the Surrey Langley SkyTrain stations construction.
• Bird ConstructionWith over 100 years in the industry, Bird offers services in building projects, civil infrastructure, industrial facilities, and mining developments. They are expanding through strategic acquisitions, including plans to acquire Jacob Bros.
• Broccolini ConstructionA family-owned firm based in Montreal, Broccolini operates in commercial, industrial, and residential construction, focusing on innovation and workforce development.
• Flynn GroupSpecializing in roofing, cladding, and building envelope solutions, Flynn works across Canada, the U.S., and Ireland within the commercial, institutional, and industrial markets.

These companies maintain operations in major urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Edmonton, and Ottawa, contributing to infrastructure, healthcare, commercial development, and housing projects.

Construction Job Roles in High Demand in Canada

The construction industry in Canada faces labor shortages partly due to an aging workforce and expanding development projects. Construction job vacancies have remained elevated, with reports indicating approximately 50,000 openings monthly in 2024.

Skilled Trades Roles

• CarpentersPerform framing, finishing, and various construction tasks.
• ElectriciansInstall and maintain wiring and electrical systems.
• LabourersSupport site preparation, material handling, and construction activities.
• Heavy Equipment OperatorsOperate machinery such as cranes and bulldozers essential for site work.

These trades are critical for daily operations and continue to see strong hiring demand.

Professional and Management Positions

• Project ManagersManage project execution, schedules, and budgets.
• EstimatorsDevelop cost estimates vital for planning and bidding.
• SchedulersPlan work sequences to enhance productivity.
• Commercial Management PersonnelOversee contracts, procurement, and risk management.

Salaries for these roles vary regionally, typically ranging from approximately CAD 100,000 to CAD 150,000 annually, with some provinces like Alberta and British Columbia offering higher compensation to attract skilled professionals.

Trends Impacting Construction Employment and Skills

Technology Integration

Canadian construction firms increasingly use technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve project efficiency and address labor shortages. Applications include:

• Scheduling optimization through predictive analytics.
• Enhancing safety via AI-driven safety intelligence tools.
• Automating administrative tasks including contract review and quantity takeoffs.

These technologies support skilled workers rather than replace them, increasing demand for workers with technical proficiency.

Workforce Dynamics

Around 40% of Canadian construction workers are over the age of 45, many approaching retirement. This demographic trend enhances labor shortages, highlighting the importance of attracting new talent and improving retention through workplace culture and safety practices.

Economic and Market Factors

The sector experiences cautious optimism amid:

• High interest rates causing slower residential starts early in 2025.
• Stable government infrastructure spending.
• Variability in material costs and tariff impacts leading to risk management adjustments.
• Sustained demand in commercial, industrial, and specialized construction projects.

Pathways and Qualifications for Construction Careers

Canada provides various immigration options suitable for construction professionals, including:

• Express Entry for Permanent Residency (PR): A points-based system with categories for skilled tradespeople.
• Temporary Work Permits: Allow professionals to work temporarily, often with opportunities to apply for PR through programs like Canadian Experience Class.

Certifications that enhance employability and professional development include:

• Engineer in Training (EIT)
• Professional Engineer (P. Eng.)
• Gold Seal Certification (GSC) for project managers
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS) for quantity surveyors
• Professional Quantity Surveyor (PQS) designation

While formal education benefits career prospects, practical experience remains highly valued in the industry.

Canada’s construction sector in 2025 features active participation from large firms like PCL Construction, EllisDon, and Aecon Group, engaged in multi-billion-dollar projects countrywide. The industry continues to experience strong demand for skilled trades and professional roles amid workforce challenges and economic variability. Adoption of technology and emphasis on workforce development represent key factors contributing to sector resilience. Professionals holding relevant certifications and adapting to new technological tools are well-positioned to access opportunities within the evolving Canadian construction landscape.

Sources

• On-Site Magazine: Introducing the 2025 Top Contractors in Canada
• Blackridge Research: List of Top Construction Companies in Canada 2025
• Moving2Canada: Construction Jobs in Canada 2025

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