What should I know about oil jobs in Alberta?
Categories: Job Hunting
The Alberta economy is based on oil and natural resources. Development of the Alberta Oil Sands has meant that workers are in high demand. Finding a job in the Alberta oil industry can be a very rewarding experience.
What are oil employers looking for?
Employers in the Alberta oil industry are looking for skilled and semi-skilled workers to work in oil fields - sometimes in remote areas. There are a few basic qualifications that can help you find an oil job in Alberta.
Education
Generally, employers are looking for workers with at least a high school (or equivalent) level of education. If you are a skilled worker with a specific trade, such as welding, you should also have trade certificates or other qualifications.
Tradespeople and journeymen from outside of Alberta can learn more about qualifying from the Alberta Trade Secrets website.
Health and fitness
Working in the Alberta oil sands can be tough, physically demanding work, often outside for long periods of time. Workers in the oil sands need to be reasonably physically fit. You should also be in generally good health - including normal blood pressure, with no major respiratory or other medical issues.
In the interest of safety, some employers may test you to ensure that you are not under the influence of drugs.
Other skills
Depending on what particular job type you are pursuing, there are other skills that you may need to have. In general, it is helpful for anybody looking for jobs in the Alberta oil sands to have the following skills:
- Competent English language ability
- Good problem solving
- Competent math and arithmetic ability
- Problem solving and safety skills
- Good mechanical skills
For some jobs, you may also be required to have a valid Alberta Driver’s License, or license to operate a heavy vehicle.
More information
Service Canada - Working in the Oil Sands
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