As preparations intensify for Canada’s 2026 population count, the federal statistics agency is moving to assemble a large, temporary workforce that will operate in communities across the country ahead of and during the census period.
Statistics Canada says it plans to recruit about 32,000 temporary workers in all provinces and territories for the census scheduled for May 2026, with hourly pay rates varying by role and reaching up to $31.32. The agency said the recruitment forms part of routine preparations for the nationwide exercise, which provides data used to guide public policy decisions in areas such as healthcare, housing, education and transport.
The positions are open to applicants who meet the legal working age in their province or territory and who are Canadian citizens, permanent residents or holders of valid work permits, provided they reside in Canada and have a Canadian home address. Employment terms, including schedules and duration, will depend on the specific role and location.
Most of the positions are field-based and involve direct engagement with households rather than office work. Statistics Canada said data collection will largely take place during evenings and weekends, reflecting the need to reach residents outside standard working hours.
Available roles include crew leaders, crew leader assistants, field operations supervisor assistants, collection support unit operators and enumerators. The majority of vacancies are for enumerators and crew leaders, which are expected to account for most hires during the recruitment process.
Enumerators are responsible for collecting census information through household visits and follow-ups with non-responding addresses. These roles typically run from May to July 2026, with workloads ranging from 20 to 40 hours per week. Crew leaders, who oversee enumerators, coordinate field activities and manage administrative duties, are expected to work about 40 hours weekly between March and July 2026, including weekdays, evenings and weekends.
According to the agency, enumerators will earn $25.87 per hour, while crew leaders will be paid $31.32 per hour. In addition to wages, workers may be eligible to claim authorised work-related expenses, depending on the nature of their assignments.
Because the work involves travel within designated areas, Statistics Canada said authorised expenses may include mileage and parking costs where personal vehicles are used. Compensation for kilometres driven is intended to offset transportation expenses associated with door-to-door visits.
Applicants will be required to complete several stages before hiring, including screening, reference checks and security assessments. Interviews will be conducted for crew leader positions. The agency noted that only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.
Applications are to be submitted online through the census jobs portal. The recruitment window runs from 4 November 2025 to 31 July 2026, with hiring continuing throughout that period. Statistics Canada said recruitment timelines will vary by location, and early applications may improve the likelihood of being matched to available roles.
