Canada’s dairy industry continues to grow, with cheese manufacturing being a significant contributor. As demand increases, many cheese factories across the country are experiencing labor shortages, especially in production and packaging roles.
This shortage has created new opportunities for foreign nationals to apply for cheese factory positions—many of which come with visa sponsorship under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
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Key Details:
- Country: Canada
- Job Title: Cheese Factory Worker
- Education: High School Diploma preferred
- Experience: 1–2 years in food production is an asset
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, through the TFWP
- Salary: CAD $20–$25/hour (depending on role, shift, and location)
- Job Type: Full-time (varies by employer)
Job Requirements:
To qualify for cheese factory worker positions, candidates are generally expected to have:
Education & Experience
- A high school diploma or equivalent (though some positions waive this in favor of experience)
- Previous experience in dairy production, food handling, or factory work is beneficial
Skills & Physical Demands
- Ability to operate dairy equipment like pasteurizers and curd separators
- Manual dexterity and attention to cleanliness and detail
- Physically fit—comfortable with standing for long periods, lifting items (10–25 kg), and repetitive motions
Sanitation Awareness
- Knowledge of food safety regulations and hygiene standards
- Willingness to follow sanitation protocols and keep work areas clean
Duties:
Cheese factory workers perform tasks such as:
- Operating cheese production machinery (e.g., curd mills, molding equipment)
- Mixing ingredients and monitoring fermentation, texture, and temperature
- Inspecting cheese quality, sampling batches, and recording data
- Sanitizing production areas and equipment to prevent contamination
- Packaging and labeling cheese products for shipment
- Inventory management—tracking raw materials and finished goods
Salary & Benefits:
The average pay for cheese factory workers ranges from CAD $20 to $25/hour, depending on:
- Experience level
- Shift type (e.g., night shifts may offer premiums)
- Province or territory
Common Benefits Include:
- Overtime pay
- Health and dental insurance
- Paid leave or vacation time
- On-site meals or meal stipends
- Pathways to permanent roles or internal promotion
Visa Sponsorship & Work Permits:
Most foreign workers are hired under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), especially for general labor or production roles in agriculture and food processing.
TFWP Highlights:
- Employers must prove that no Canadians are available to fill the position
- The employer submits a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
- Once approved, foreign nationals can apply for a closed work permit tied to that employer
How to Apply for Cheese Factory Worker Jobs in Canada 2025?
- Search Jobs: Visit platforms like:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed Canada
- Workopolis
- Company websites (e.g., Saputo, Agropur, or Parmalat Canada)
- Prepare Your Resume: Tailor your CV to highlight:
- Food handling experience
- Physical stamina
- Machinery operation or sanitation work
- Apply Online: Submit applications to job postings mentioning “LMIA available” or “visa sponsorship”.
- Receive Offer & LMIA: If selected, your employer will begin the TFWP visa process.
- Apply for a Work Permit: Once LMIA is approved, submit your work permit application through IRCC
Types of Roles in Cheese Factories:
- Cheese Maker – Oversees curdling and aging processes
- Machine Operator – Runs pasteurizers, molding units, and conveyor belts
- Quality Control Technician – Inspects texture, taste, and safety standards
- Sanitation Worker – Cleans equipment and production areas
- Packaging Specialist – Prepares cheese for sale or shipping
- Maintenance Technician – Ensures machinery and systems are operational
- Warehouse Clerk/Storekeeper – Manages materials and inventory
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much does a cheesemaker earn in Canada?
The average salary is CAD $38,000–$47,000/year, or $19–$25/hour depending on experience and region. (Source: Job Bank Canada)
Is visa sponsorship guaranteed for all cheese factory jobs?
No. Only employers approved under the TFWP and who have a valid LMIA can offer visa sponsorship. Always check the job listing for sponsorship details.
What’s the difference between a cheese factory worker and a cheesemaker?
A cheesemaker is typically a skilled worker responsible for curdling, aging, and flavoring cheese. A cheese factory worker may handle tasks like machinery operation, packaging, and sanitation.
