Learning about Skilled Occupations
This guide will help you find the information you need to start working in British Columbia. You can use the menu buttons to move between sections of the guide.
Working in Your Skilled Occupation
Job Description
You can learn about the job description for your occupation from:
Industry Overview
The demand for workers in British Columbia is expected to surpass the supply.
Several industries are expected to offer particularly strong job opportunities:
- green technology, digital media and life sciences
- traditional industries such as natural resources (growth through innovation)
- service industries including health care, high-tech and retail sales
Source: Work BC, BC’s Economy
Job Outlook in BC
Job Openings in BC, 2021-2023
Source: British Columbia 2021Labour Market Outlook
Almost two-thirds of projected job openings in British Columbia over the next 10 years are expected to be in the Lower Mainland and Southwest region of the Province.
Employment Outlook by Region, 2021-2031
Source: British Columbia 2017, Labour Market Outlook
Types of Employers
There are a variety of employer options for you in British Columbia depending on your occupation and preferences, for example company size or location. BC is increasingly focused on medium and small business.
Self-employment is also an option to consider as contract work is becoming more common in British Columbia.
Salary
Average hourly wages of employees by selected occupation, British Columbia
Source: Government of Canada, Statistics Canada
For detailed salary information by occupation, see:
Working Hours
Your working hours will vary depending on your occupation.
Short term contract and project work is becoming more common in BC.