Canada is a popular country for foreigners looking for job opportunities, and its capital city, Ottawa, is one of the best places to work. As the city continues to grow, so does the demand for delivery drivers. Many companies are now offering High-Paying Delivery Driver Jobs in Ottawa for Foreign Workers with good salaries and benefits.
This article explains everything you need to know about becoming a delivery driver in Ottawa, especially if you are a foreign worker. We’ll look at the types of jobs, salaries, qualifications, visa options, how to apply, and more. Everything is written in simple English to help you understand clearly.
Why Choose Ottawa for Delivery Driver Jobs?
Ottawa is not just the political capital of Canada; it’s also a busy and modern city with a growing population and strong economy. People in Ottawa order goods, groceries, and meals every day. This has increased the need for delivery drivers.
Some of the reasons Ottawa is a great place for delivery driver jobs:
- High demand for drivers in food, courier, and retail sectors
- Safe and clean city with good infrastructure
- Opportunities to grow and settle long-term
- Some companies offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers
- High wages compared to other Canadian cities
What Do Delivery Drivers Do?
Delivery drivers are responsible for picking up and delivering goods from one location to another. Depending on the company, the goods may include food, packages, furniture, or documents.
Here are some common tasks of delivery drivers in Ottawa:
- Picking up goods from a store, restaurant, or warehouse
- Delivering items to homes, offices, or businesses
- Using GPS or apps to find routes
- Handling cash or electronic payments
- Keeping records of deliveries
- Maintaining and cleaning the delivery vehicle
- Communicating with customers politely and clearly
Types of High-Paying Delivery Driver Jobs in Ottawa for Foreign Workers
There are many kinds of delivery driver jobs in Ottawa. Some of the most common and high-paying options are:
1. Courier Drivers (Parcel Delivery)
These drivers work for courier companies like FedEx, UPS, and Purolator. They deliver packages to homes and businesses.
2. Food Delivery Drivers
These drivers deliver food from restaurants or grocery stores. Companies like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes are popular.
3. Truck Delivery Drivers
Heavy truck drivers transport goods between warehouses, factories, and stores. This job requires a special license but pays very well.
4. Furniture and Appliance Delivery
Companies like IKEA or The Brick need drivers to deliver large items. These drivers may help with loading and unloading.
5. Medical or Pharmaceutical Delivery Drivers
These drivers deliver medicine and medical supplies to hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies. This job requires care and responsibility.
6. Amazon Delivery Drivers
Amazon hires delivery partners and drivers to deliver online orders. These jobs come with flexible schedules and decent pay.
How Much Do Delivery Drivers Earn in Ottawa?
Delivery driver salaries in Ottawa depend on the type of job, company, and experience. Below are average earnings:
- Food Delivery (Uber Eats, DoorDash): CAD 18 – CAD 25 per hour (including tips)
- Courier Delivery (FedEx, UPS): CAD 20 – CAD 28 per hour
- Truck Drivers: CAD 25 – CAD 35 per hour
- Amazon Delivery Drivers: CAD 20 – CAD 26 per hour
- Furniture Delivery: CAD 22 – CAD 30 per hour
- Pharmaceutical Drivers: CAD 22 – CAD 32 per hour
Some full-time drivers earn CAD 50,000 to CAD 70,000+ per year depending on their role and company.
Benefits of High-Paying Delivery Driver Jobs in Ottawa for Foreign Workers
There are many advantages to working as a delivery driver in Ottawa:
- Competitive hourly wages
- Overtime pay and holiday bonuses
- Health insurance and retirement plans (for full-time roles)
- Freedom and flexible schedules (especially in gig delivery jobs)
- Tips from customers (especially in food delivery)
- Possibility of permanent job offers
- Work experience that can help with permanent residency
Who Can Apply for Delivery Driver Jobs in Ottawa?
Most delivery driver jobs in Ottawa are open to both locals and foreigners. However, to qualify, foreign workers need to meet certain conditions:
1. Valid Driver’s License
You must hold a valid driver’s license. If you have a foreign license, it may need to be converted to a Canadian license (G class for small vehicles, DZ/AZ class for trucks).
2. Work Permit or Visa
You need a legal work permit. Some companies may sponsor your visa, especially for truck driver positions.
3. Basic English or French Skills
You must understand and speak basic English or French to follow directions and communicate with customers.
4. Clean Driving Record
Employers want safe and reliable drivers. A clean driving history is important.
5. Good Physical Condition
You may need to carry packages or groceries. Being fit helps with this job.
6. Knowledge of Ottawa Streets
Using GPS or map apps is helpful, but knowing your way around Ottawa is a plus.
Visa Sponsorship for Delivery Driver Jobs in Ottawa
Foreign workers can apply for jobs with visa sponsorship through programs like:
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Canadian employers can hire foreign workers if they cannot find Canadians to fill the job. They must get an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
2. Atlantic Immigration Program
If the employer is in the Atlantic region and approved under this program, foreign workers may be hired directly and given a pathway to permanent residency.
3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Ontario, where Ottawa is located, offers the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Employers can nominate delivery drivers for permanent residence.
4. Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)
If you have enough work experience and meet other criteria, delivery driver work can qualify you for permanent residence.
How to Apply for High-Paying Delivery Driver Jobs in Ottawa for Foreign Workers
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Resume
Your resume should include:
- Full name and contact details
- Driving experience
- License information
- Language skills
- Work experience
- Education
Step 2: Search for Jobs Online
Use trusted job websites such as:
- Indeed.ca
- Jobbank.gc.ca
- Monster.ca
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Glassdoor.ca
Search using terms like:
- Delivery driver jobs in Ottawa with visa sponsorship
- Truck driver jobs Ottawa foreign workers
- Courier jobs for international applicants
Step 3: Apply to Companies That Offer Sponsorship
Some companies known to hire foreign drivers include:
- FedEx Canada
- UPS Canada
- Amazon Flex
- GardaWorld (for cash or parcel delivery)
- Canada Post
- Local trucking companies in Ottawa
Step 4: Prepare for the Interview
If shortlisted, you may be interviewed online. Be ready to talk about your driving skills, experience, and availability.
Step 5: Get a Job Offer and Visa
Once you receive a job offer, your employer will help apply for your work visa or LMIA. After approval, you can travel to Canada and begin working.
Tips for Success as a Delivery Driver in Ottawa
Here are some tips to help you succeed and enjoy your job:
- Always be on time and reliable
- Be polite and friendly to customers
- Keep your vehicle clean and maintained
- Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze
- Report any problems to your employer
- Drive safely and obey traffic rules
- Try to improve your English or French
- Work hard and build a good record for future visa or PR applications
Can Delivery Driver Jobs Lead to Permanent Residency in Canada?
Yes, many foreign workers who start as delivery drivers later apply for permanent residence. This is possible through:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Employer-driven immigration programs
- Atlantic Immigration Program
If your employer is satisfied with your work, they may support your application for PR.
Life in Ottawa as a Foreign Worker
Ottawa is a beautiful and multicultural city. It has:
- Friendly people
- Safe neighborhoods
- Public transport system
- Good healthcare and education
- Parks and entertainment
- Affordable housing compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver
You will find many communities and support services for immigrants, making it easier to settle and grow your career.
Final Thoughts
High-Paying Delivery Driver Jobs in Ottawa for Foreign Workers are a great way to earn money, gain Canadian work experience, and build a future. Whether you work for a courier company, deliver food, or drive a truck, there are many opportunities waiting for skilled, honest, and hardworking individuals.
With the right license, a good resume, and the help of a sponsoring employer, you can start your journey to working and living in Ottawa, Canada.