nevillek said:
But U.S. customs would give me that Orange sticker indicating a flagpole/refusal of entry to US.. do you see the complication?
Refusal of entry to the US isn't a crime. It doesn't mean you did something wrong. It’s just an administrative refusal which means it won’t affect any future visa applications, and is necessary to prove that you left Canada and are therefore eligible to go back in through immigration. The note you are given only helps you to return to Canada with your valid SP, WP, or TRV. It is why you hand it over to the Canada customs officials. In fact it is used by PR and other OWP applicants as well. It has different purposes besides WP.
That said if deep down you feel that it will affect you, then either go straight to the Canadian customs and apply for a work permit
OR come back to Canada, waste a few minutes, cross the border ask a for a refusal note, return to the Canada customs and apply for a WP
OR come back and sit tight for 98 days.
But remember every decision you make is a risk; whether waiting for 98 days or flagpoling. Waiting 98 days is no guarantee for getting a WP.
I understand your fear. However, its not complicated until you complicate it. Just make sure you have all the documents you need.
Good luck.
Cheers!