Dear Ms. MacPhearson,
Welcome to the great socialist North. If you would care to scan the sunshine list in Ontario, you will find that a 6-figure income is enjoyed by one and all and usually passes for minimum wage for the broader public sector. 
Which brings me to Career counselling for budding scientists and mathematicians - why bother. just go to the gym, take testosterone supplements and become a cop, a fireman, TTC driver  - they are always hiring and in the end much better job security and perks. If perchance you end up doing something really bad, you may be put on administrative leave with full pay.