Alberta, a region in Canada, is offering competitive job opportunities for skilled professionals across energy, healthcare, technology, and construction, according to new data on the province’s labour market.
A recent analysis from Immigration News Canada (INC) identifies 20 in-demand occupations in Alberta where workers earn over $35 per hour, based on current average wages and employment data. These roles show trends in the province’s diversified economy and provide insight into where job seekers can find stable employment and competitive wages.
Energy and Construction Lead the List
The highest-paying occupation on the list is:
- Contractors and Supervisors, Oil and Gas Drilling and Services (NOC 82021), with an average wage of $54.60 per hour and a salary of $102,787 per year.
Approximately 13,600 people work in this field in Alberta. Labour market researchers describe the outlook as “hot,” indicating high demand.
Another energy-adjacent role is;
- Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics (NOC 72400) earn an average of $42.93 per hour.
Alberta’s infrastructure projects continue to require skilled tradespeople, contributing to steady demand.
Contractors and Supervisors of Heavy Equipment Operators (NOC 72021) also earn a notable average of $38.93 per hour, reflecting demand for oversight roles on industrial and construction projects.
Healthcare and Safety Occupations Remain Essential
The healthcare sector is represented by
- Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses (NOC 31301), who earn an average of $46.21 per hour. Around 47,300 individuals are employed in these roles.
Labour market experts also classify this role as in demand, indicating ongoing worker shortages.
In health and safety, Occupational Health and Safety Specialists (NOC 22232) earn $42.25 per hour. The job includes conducting risk assessments and ensuring compliance in high-risk industries such as construction and energy.
Canada’s Alberta currently employs about 8,300 people in this role, with a “warm” market outlook.
Technology and Business Roles See Continued Growth
Among business professionals, Professional Occupations in Business Management Consulting (NOC 11201) average $51.25 per hour, with 18,300 workers in the province. Analysts report a “warm” outlook due to rising demand for expertise in operational efficiency and digital transformation.
The tech industry continues to grow, with
- Information Systems Specialists (NOC 21222) earn $45.60 per hour, and Software Developers and Programmers (NOC 21232) earn $41.29 per hour.
These roles are increasingly essential as Alberta’s digital economy develops.
Financial sector roles include Banking, Credit, and Investment Managers (NOC 10021) at $50.41 per hour and Financial Auditors and Accountants (NOC 11100) at $41.04 per hour. Calgary’s financial services hub contributes to consistent hiring in these roles.
Trades and Public Sector Jobs Maintain Strong Wages
Skilled trades like Electricians (NOC 72200) and Plumbers (NOC 72300) earn average hourly wages of $38.34 and $36.28, respectively. The province’s construction growth continues to fuel hiring in these areas.
Public-facing roles also appear on the list.
- Social Policy Researchers and Program Officers (NOC 41403) earn $41.66 per hour, while Human Resources Professionals (NOC 11200) earn $35.91 per hour.
- In wholesale trade, Sales and Account Representatives (NOC 64101) earn $36.79 per hour. These positions support Alberta’s growing business-to-business economy.
Preparing for a High-Paying Job in Alberta
Prospective job seekers are encouraged to obtain necessary certifications, especially for trades and healthcare positions. Institutions such as the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) and Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) – Canada – offer relevant programs.
Networking through job fairs and professional platforms is advised to learn about openings and employer expectations. Also, tailoring resumes to highlight relevant skills aligned with the region’s economic needs may improve job prospects.
According to the INC, Alberta’s labour market offers competitive salaries in roles where demand exceeds supply. The province’s leading job, oil and gas supervisor, pays over $54 per hour, while human resource professionals earn just under $36 per hour. These roles span sectors and reflect economic activity across the province.
