British Columbia (B.C.) continues to lead Canada in offering some of the highest-paying and in-demand jobs across diverse sectors, with many positions offering median hourly wages of over $50. For newcomers and permanent residents planning their careers, understanding the province’s labour market outlook is important, especially as B.C. prepares for nearly 1 million job openings by 2033.
This list by Immigration News Canada highlights jobs across seven economic regions in B.C., based on current data from the British Columbia Labour Market Outlook 2023. These include:
- Coast and Vancouver Islands
- Mainland/Southwest
- Thompson-Okanagan
- Northeast
- North Coast and Nechako
- Kootenay
- Cariboo
The provincial government uses four key indicators to determine which roles are in demand: number of job openings, ease of employment now and in the future, unemployment rates, and current median wages.
Here are some high-paying and high-opportunity occupations that offer a median wage above $50/hour and are projected to remain in demand over the next decade:
Top In-Demand Jobs in B.C. Paying $50+/Hour
- Specialists in Surgery (NOC 31101)
- Median Wage: $228.76/hour
- Job Openings by 2033: 760
- Education: University degree
- Occupational Interest: Investigative
- Judges (NOC 41100)
- Median Wage: $199.36/hour
- Job Openings: 190
- Education: University degree
- Occupational Interest: Enterprising
- General Practitioners and Family Physicians (NOC 31102)
- Median Wage: $114.62/hour
- Job Openings: 3,640
- Air Traffic Controllers (NOC 72601)
- Median Wage: $68.78/hour
- Job Openings: 430
- Education: Diploma or Apprenticeship (2+ years)
- Engineering Managers (NOC 20010)
- Median Wage: $60.00/hour
- Job Openings: 2,460
- Veterinarians (NOC 31103)
- Median Wage: $60.00/hour
- Job Openings: 570
- Dentists (NOC 31110)
- Median Wage: $53.85/hour
- Job Openings: 1,590
- Software Engineers and Designers (NOC 21231)
- Median Wage: $53.84/hour
- Job Openings: 12,330
- Civil Engineers (NOC 21300)
- Median Wage: $52.85/hour
- Job Openings: 4,010
- Human Resources Managers (NOC 10011)
- Median Wage: $56.41/hour
- Job Openings: 3,370
These jobs span health care, tech, public administration, and engineering. These sectors are critical to B.C.’s economic growth and development.
What Makes These Jobs a Smart Choice?
The minimum wage in B.C. is $17.40/hour, the highest in Canada as of June 1, 2024. However, the jobs listed above offer wages 3x higher than this benchmark, making them highly attractive for skilled immigrants looking for stability and growth.
With an unemployment rate of 5.2%, B.C. currently enjoys the lowest jobless rate in Canada, well below the national average of 6.4% and Ontario’s 7%. This favourable job environment signals strong opportunities for both newcomers and Canadians.
Labour Market Outlook to 2033
According to the B.C. Labour Market Outlook 2023:
- 998,000 job openings are projected between 2023 and 2033
- 65% of these openings will replace retiring workers
- Average annual job openings will represent 3.4% of total employment
- Most jobs will require post-secondary education or training
This provides a roadmap for immigrants planning education or certification in Canada. Knowing which occupations offer strong wages and future demand can help applicants target provincial nomination programs (PNPs) more strategically.
What Immigrants Should Keep in Mind
Credential recognition remains a key hurdle, especially in regulated professions like medicine, law, and engineering. Many roles will require:
- Canadian certification or licensing
- Language proficiency in English
- Industry experience and networking
However, sectors like tech and engineering are increasingly open to foreign-trained professionals, especially as companies face skill shortages.
Key Takeaway
British Columbia’s high-paying jobs reflect both the province’s economic strength and its need for skilled talent. From healthcare and public safety to engineering and IT, immigrants with the right qualifications can access some of the most lucrative career paths in Canada.
To support your journey, regularly check programs like the B.C. Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) and review the NOC codes tied to in-demand jobs. By aligning your experience and training with the roles outlined above, you improve your chances of success in Canada’s competitive but rewarding labour market.
For more updates on Canadian immigration, jobs, and policies, visit Immigration News Canada and stay updated on the latest news.
Media Contact
Company Name: Immigration News Canada
Contact Person: Kamal Deep Singh
Email: Send Email
Phone: 647-853-1717
Country: Canada
Website: https://immigrationnewscanada.ca/
