Looking for a well-paying temporary job that also helps shape the future of Canada? Statistics Canada is recruiting thousands of workers across the country to help conduct the upcoming census, and the hourly wages are among the best currently offered for short-term roles. With pay ranging from $23.96 up to $31.25 an hour, this opportunity offers flexible hours, the chance to interact with your local community, and valuable federal work experience.
The census happens every five years, and it’s a massive operation. In 2024, Statistics Canada will once again be deploying a nationwide workforce of field representatives and support staff. Whether you’re looking to earn extra income, want to contribute to a critical national initiative, or simply enjoy engaging with people where they live, applying to be a census worker could be your ideal gig.
Job details and salary overview at a glance
| Job Title | Census Enumerator, Crew Leader |
|---|---|
| Employer | Statistics Canada |
| Location | Nationwide (Urban & Rural Areas) |
| Salary Range | $23.96 – $31.25 per hour |
| Work Schedule | Flexible hours, including evenings & weekends |
| Employment Type | Temporary (4 to 6 weeks) |
| Application Deadline | Rolling basis until positions filled |
What changed this year
The 2024 census hiring campaign comes with updated compensation that reflects the rising cost of living and greater focus on digital data collection. Statistics Canada is offering a more attractive hourly wage this year compared to previous census periods. Wages start at $23.96 per hour for enumerators and can go up to $31.25 per hour for crew leader positions.
There’s also greater emphasis on tech-savvy candidates who are comfortable using mobile devices and online forms. This modernization helps streamline data collection and reduce error rates, making the census more accurate and efficient.
Who qualifies and why it matters
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or legally entitled to work in Canada, and must reside in or near the geographical area where they intend to work. Candidates also need to be comfortable doing fieldwork, which involves going door-to-door and interacting with the public to complete census questionnaires.
These positions are ideal for students, recent graduates, retirees, or anyone seeking temporary employment with a purpose. By joining the census workforce, you’re helping collect critical data that influences public policy, funding allocations for schools and healthcare, and local infrastructure development.
“Accurate census data leads to better services — from hospitals to schools to housing. That’s why we count everyone, everywhere.”
— Louise Ethier, Regional Census Manager (placeholder)
How to apply step-by-step
The online application process is straightforward and can be completed within 15–20 minutes. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Visit the official Statistics Canada recruitment portal.
- Select your preferred position: Enumerator or Crew Leader.
- Fill out your personal details and provide proof of eligibility to work in Canada.
- Indicate your availability and preferred work area/postal code.
- Complete the applicant questionnaire — this assesses your communication skills, judgment, and attention to detail.
- Submit and await email confirmation or follow-up for additional documentation (including a possible background check).
Applicants are advised to apply early, as thousands of roles must be filled on a rolling basis leading up to the census collection period. Background checks and training will be completed before fieldwork begins.
Enumerator vs. Crew Leader roles
There are two main roles available, each with its own responsibilities:
Enumerator
Enumerators will be assigned a local area where they will visit households and ensure questionnaires are completed. This may include making follow-up visits or conducting interviews over the phone when in-person visits are not possible. Enumerators are the backbone of the census process and need to be detail-oriented and personable.
Crew Leader
Crew Leaders manage a team of enumerators, serve as their first point of contact for questions or incidents, and ensure overall data collection quality. This role involves some administrative duties as well as fieldwork. Crew Leaders tend to work more hours per week and are compensated at the higher end of the wage scale.
Training and schedule expectations
All workers will receive paid training before beginning official duties. Training includes topics on confidentiality, interview techniques, mobile data entry, and troubleshooting common issues encountered in the field. This ensures all staff understand both the importance and method of collecting federal data responsibly.
Once training is complete, workers can expect to work flexible hours — typically between 20 to 40 hours per week — based on local needs. Some evening and weekend work is often necessary to connect with residents who are not available during business hours.
What makes this job meaningful
Aside from a competitive wage, working on the census provides real-world experience in communication, administrative accuracy, and community engagement. Successful census workers often go on to pursue careers in government, data analysis, public health, and urban planning. It’s also an opportunity to see firsthand how diverse and dynamic Canadian communities are.
“Census jobs are more than data collection — they’re a connection to every neighborhood’s story.”
— Jordan Lee, Former Census Crew Leader (placeholder)
Winners and potential downsides
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Students and recent grads seeking short-term work | People who require long-term employment |
| Retirees wanting flexible hours | Those uncomfortable with door-to-door interaction |
| Individuals pursuing government careers | Applicants unwilling to undergo a security screening |
| People looking to earn good wages quickly | Those not living near an active census region |
Short FAQs about 2024 Census jobs
How long does the census job last?
Most positions are temporary and last around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your region and job type.
Do I need previous experience to apply?
No prior experience is required. Candidates should be organized, comfortable speaking with the public, and able to complete online forms.
Can I choose where I work?
Yes. You’ll be assigned to areas near your home. You can list preferred neighborhoods or postal codes in your application.
How is scheduling handled for census positions?
Schedules are flexible. Workers typically set hours in coordination with their crew leader and local demand — evenings and weekends are common.
Will I receive paid training?
Yes, all successful candidates will undergo short paid training modules before beginning their official duties.
Is this job safe during public health advisories?
Statistics Canada follows strict safety protocols. PPE and contactless procedures may be provided where appropriate to ensure safety for workers and residents.