Industry Overview
Industry Overview
Future job prospects for administrative assistants are expected to be good.
Changes in technology have affected the duties of administrative assistants. Many employers now expect you to take on more complex tasks such as:
- developing spreadsheets
- drafting correspondence
- supervising databases
- updating websites
- producing presentation materials
As a result, you will be in higher demand if you have a wider variety of computer skills. Many positions also require some experience with project management or coordination.
There is good opportunity for flexible work arrangements. If you work with a placement agency (also known as a “temp” agency) you can work on short-term placements with private sector companies and government clients.
Job Outlook in BC
Job Outlook in BC, 2021-2031
Chart from WorkBC
WorkBC provides job openings in BC’s regions from 2021-2031:
| Region | Employment in 2021 | Estimated Annual Employment Growth 2021-2031 | Estimated # of Job Openings 2021-2031 |
| Vancouver Island / Coast | 4,680 | 1.0% | 1,800 |
| Lower Mainland / Southwest | 17,400 | 1.2% | 6,590 |
| Thompson-Okanagan | 3,100 | 1.0% | 1,200 |
| Kootenay | 720 | 0.5% | 230 |
| Cariboo | 930 | 0.3% | 190 |
| North Coast & Nechako | 470 | 1.0% | 130 |
| Northeast | 660 | 1.1% | 200 |
Sources: WorkBC Career Profile & Career Cruising
Types of Employers
Administrative assistants work in offices in every kind of organization, including:
- non-profit organizations
- government agencies
- universities, colleges and educational institutions
- hospitals
- banks
- businesses of all types and size
You may also find employment through temporary staffing agencies in BC’s cities. These temporary jobs can lead to permanent employment.
Salary
The median annual salary for administrative assistants in BC is $50,054. Your salary depends on experience, location, and employer.
In addition to a salary, most full-time administrative assistants receive health and dental benefits, paid sick days, and paid vacations.
In BC’s regions, administrative assistants can expect to make:
Table from Job Bank Canada Wage Report
Working Hours
Most administrative assistants have regular hours. A 9-to-5, Monday to Friday workweek is most common.