Imagine standing high above the city skyline, the world beneath you shimmering in the sunlight, and the satisfaction of leaving behind a spotless pane of glass. While it may sound like something out of a movie, it’s just another day on the job for a window washer. Window washing is more than simply making glass sparkle—it plays a vital role in building maintenance, energy efficiency, and overall aesthetic appeal.
With Canada’s growing urban centers and expanding commercial infrastructure, the demand for professional window washers is on the rise. Even more appealing for international workers, many Canadian employers are now offering free visa sponsorship to fill labor shortages in this field. Whether you’re seeking a hands-on, outdoor career or looking to move to a new country for better job opportunities, becoming a window washer in Canada could be a perfect fit.
In this guide, we’ll explore what the job entails, salary expectations, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for jobs that come with visa sponsorship.
Why Consider a Career as a Window Washer in Canada?
Canada is known for its high-rise buildings, modern architecture, and commitment to cleanliness and safety in urban design. Clean windows aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re important for building performance, allowing natural light to penetrate interiors and helping to reduce electricity use during daylight hours. Window washers are vital in maintaining these standards.
Moreover, the job offers a great combination of independence, physical activity, variety, and the chance to work in the open air. For people who enjoy non-desk jobs and are comfortable working at heights, this profession provides both steady employment and the personal satisfaction of tangible results at the end of each day.
Job Description: What Does a Window Washer Do in Canada?
Window washers in Canada perform a variety of cleaning and maintenance tasks on residential, commercial, and high-rise buildings. While some work is ground-level, many professionals are required to work at significant heights, using specialized equipment and following strict safety protocols.
Key Responsibilities:
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Clean both the interior and exterior windows of buildings using tools like squeegees, brushes, and extension poles.
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Use cleaning solutions to remove dirt, grime, water spots, fingerprints, and cobwebs.
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Perform high-rise window cleaning using suspended scaffolds, ladders, or rope descent systems.
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Inspect windows for damage or wear, such as cracks in the glass or deterioration in the seals and frames.
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Ensure compliance with safety standards, including the use of harnesses, helmets, and fall protection equipment.
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Communicate with clients or building management to report issues, provide estimates, or offer maintenance suggestions.
In addition to physical stamina, window washers must have strong attention to detail, the ability to work independently, and good time management skills. A calm demeanor and focus are also critical—especially when working at heights.
Salary Expectations for Window Washers in Canada
The income potential for window washers in Canada can vary based on several factors such as location, level of experience, and whether you work for a company or operate independently.
General Salary Ranges:
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Entry-Level: Newcomers to the industry typically earn between CAD $18 and $20 per hour.
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Experienced Workers: With a few years of experience, wages can rise to CAD $25 to $30 per hour, especially for those with specialized high-rise or commercial cleaning skills.
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High-Rise Specialists: Window washers working on skyscrapers or complex commercial buildings may earn significantly more due to the risks involved—upwards of CAD $35 or more per hour.
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Self-Employed Washers: Some professionals choose to work independently, setting their own rates. Successful self-employed window washers can generate substantial income, especially if they secure long-term commercial contracts.
Some companies also offer performance-based pay, where workers earn commissions or bonuses based on the number of jobs completed or customer satisfaction scores.
Eligibility Criteria for Window Washer Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
To be eligible for a window washing position in Canada with free visa sponsorship, candidates typically need to meet the following requirements:
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Basic Work Experience: While entry-level roles don’t usually require formal education, having prior experience in cleaning, maintenance, or construction is an asset.
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Physical Fitness: The job demands strength, stamina, and balance—especially when climbing ladders or working at heights.
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Language Skills: Basic proficiency in English or French is required to follow instructions and safety guidelines.
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Willingness to Relocate: Candidates must be open to relocating to Canada and willing to work in various weather conditions.
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Work Permit Eligibility: Employers who sponsor foreign workers usually do so through Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), which requires an approved Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Applicants with certifications in fall protection or rope access may have a competitive edge, particularly for high-rise or industrial window washing roles.
How to Apply for Window Washer Jobs in Canada With Visa Sponsorship
Getting started is relatively straightforward if you follow these steps:
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Search for Openings: Use job platforms like Job Bank Canada, Indeed, or Glassdoor. Look for listings that include “visa sponsorship,” “foreign workers welcome,” or “LMIA approved.”
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Prepare a Canadian-Style Resume: Focus on your physical capabilities, work ethic, safety training, and any relevant experience.
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Apply to Multiple Jobs: Target companies that specialize in commercial or high-rise cleaning, as they are more likely to sponsor foreign workers.
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Participate in Interviews: Be prepared to demonstrate your willingness to work in challenging conditions and your understanding of safety requirements.
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Visa Process: If you receive a job offer, your employer will initiate the LMIA process and help you apply for a Canadian work permit through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
Conclusion
Window washing in Canada offers more than just a steady paycheck—it provides a rewarding career that allows you to work outdoors, stay physically active, and be part of maintaining some of the country’s most iconic buildings. With free visa sponsorship options increasingly available, this could be your gateway to starting a new life in Canada.
Whether you’re new to the industry or bringing years of experience, the Canadian job market is open to those ready to take on the challenge and rise to new heights—literally.