CCQ wages​

What is the CCQ wage?

Definition of the CCQ wage

The CCQ wage is the remuneration of workers in the construction industry in Quebec, governed by the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ). It is established through sector-specific collective agreements negotiated between unions and employer associations, which determine the hourly rates, allowances (vacation, statutory holidays, weather downtime, etc.) and social contributions (insurance, pension, training). Each trade, region, skill level and type of jobsite (residential, institutional-commercial, industrial, civil/roadwork) has distinct scales that are updated regularly.

Specific features of the CCQ wage

The CCQ wage is not limited to a basic hourly rate. It includes :

• A base rate set by the collective agreement ;
• Premiums for overtime, travel or special conditions ;
• Mandatory contributions paid to collective plans.

These elements generally make the CCQ wage higher than the regular hourly rate outside the construction sector. In return, workers must hold a competency certificate and comply with strict training, safety and hour-reporting rules. Using tools such as a CCQ timesheet helps record hours worked, types of tasks performed and jobsite type with precision.

How to calculate the CCQ wage

To calculate an employee’s pay under the CCQ regime :

• Multiply the applicable hourly rate by the number of hours worked ;
• Add premiums and allowances according to the conditions ;
• Apply source deductions to obtain the net wage.

Digital tools such as an employee time-tracking app or work-hour calculation services make these tasks easier.

FAQ about the CCQ wage

Where can you find your CCQ hourly rate?

Hourly rates are published on the CCQ website. You can search for them based on your trade, region and jobsite type.

Are overtime hours paid at a higher rate?

Yes. The collective agreements provide increases, often 1.5× or 2× the hourly rate, depending on the time of week or the number of hours exceeded.

What is the difference between a CCQ wage and a standard hourly wage?

The CCQ wage is standardised and enhanced by mandatory contributions, whereas the standard hourly rate is freely negotiated between employer and employee without a compulsory collective framework.