Statistics Canada is recruiting local workers in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, for the 2026 Census and has raised pay in select northern and remote communities to attract more staff. The federal agency listed Census job openings (Job Bank posting dated Jan. 7, 2026) that include a rate of $35.79 per hour for non-supervisory field enumerator positions in select northern and remote communities — a rate set specifically for those locations. (Supervisory rates in those communities are higher.)
While most of the country will be counted in May 2026, Rankin Inlet is part of an early-collection phase. Work in select northern and remote communities is scheduled to start in February 2026 so census workers can reach residents before spring travel and while frozen ground makes travel easier. Field collection in northern communities generally runs through April; however, the broader recruitment and application period for various census roles may extend into July 2026.
Enumerator roles involve going door-to-door to collect information and helping community members complete their forms. Application requirements noted by Statistics Canada and Job Bank postings include being at least 18 years old and legally entitled to work in Canada (for example, as a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or holder of a valid work permit). Statistics Canada is specifically encouraging local residents to apply to improve count accuracy.
Accurate census information helps governments and service providers decide how to allocate funding for local services such as health care, housing and roads. Northern communities have sometimes been undercounted in past censuses, which can affect funding and services. To improve representation, Statistics Canada is working with local partners, including Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., to ensure the 2026 Census reflects Inuit-specific needs and context.
People interested in applying can do so through the official 2026 Census jobs portal at census.gc.ca (and through the Government of Canada jobs/GC Jobs system where applicable). Statistics Canada says the higher northern pay rates are intended to help the agency compete with other local employers, such as mining companies, and to ensure there are enough workers to complete the count on schedule.
